Interpretation ID: nht92-6.1

DATE: June 22, 1992

FROM: Eugene J. Welker

TO: Jackson Rice -- Chief Counsel, N.C.C.I., NHTSA

TITLE: None

ATTACHMT: Attached to letter dated 8/7/92 from Kenneth N. Weinstein (for Paul J. Rice) to Eugene Welker (A39; Redbook (4); Std. 211; Std. 111)

TEXT:

Mr. Stronbotne suggested I write you relative to a mirror safety item that can be located near rear bumper on cars, trucks, vans, etc., to improve a driver backing out of either a perpendicular, 45 degree angle or other parking areas to ascertain if the way is clear for driver to proceed without endangering anyone.

The purpose of this letter is to question the legality of mirrors on rear of vehicles facing forward about 45 degrees so no following vehicles are affected by any reflection.

Mirrors on cars would be hinged on a vertical post and be a few inches above top rear window stop light. The two car mirrors are approximately 90 degrees apart or 45 degrees on each side so driver can tell from windshield if any traffic is coming from either direction prior to backing out.

Mirrors on prototype unit are 4" x 6" long, or approximately the size of mirrors on car doors. These are cut from 1/4" thick plexiglass and bolted on one end to hinge on vertical post.

Mirrors would be high enough on trucks, probably about heighth of ones outside drivers doors so driver can get a good view if all is clear before backing up.

I have made a prototype and can readily mount it on rear of my car above rear bumper in a few seconds with two small wing nuts to hold vertical shaft, approximately 35" long. I carry unit in car trunk so I can readily attach it if my vision is blocked on either side in rear.

In 1942 and 1943 I had the pleasure of working for the Small Arms Branch in the Pentagon expediting a variety of machinery and equipment.

Thank you for your assistance in this matter.