Interpretation ID: nht89-2.22

TYPE: INTERPRETATION-NHTSA

DATE: 06/28/89

FROM: VICTOR CRISCI

TO: ERICA Z. JONES -- CHIEF COUNSEL, NHTSA

TITLE: NONE

ATTACHMT: ATTACHED TO LETTER DATED FEBRUARY 14, 1990 FROM STEPHEN P. WOOD, NHTSA TO VICTOR CRISCI; A35; STD. 108

TEXT: I was given your name by a person who's in my motorcycle club.

I intend to install a Safety Light Flasher on my motorcycle and I would like to know whether it would be in conflict in anyway with U.S. DOT regulations.

My motorcycle is now equipped with a headlight on/off switch and a dimmer switch (hi/lo beam).

Operation of headlight with safety flasher installed

If headlight is on, the safety flasher flashes the headlight between high and low beam for 2-4 seconds then returns the light to it's original state (hi/lo beam).

If the headlight switch is off, the light flasher automatically turns the light on, flashes the headlight between hi/lo beam for 2-4 seconds then returns the light to it's original state (hi/lo beam).

In both of the above cases the sequence is initiated by pressing the horn button only. As an option the flasher can be initiated by a seperate non-horn switch.

I want to install this device because it will significantly inprove my rider safety. It will allow me automatic "forward recognition" because the vast majority of accidents occur when bikers are "not visable" to motorists who are making left turns in front of them, pulling out of driveways shopping centers and changing lanes etc.

I feel the device should not be in conflict with DOT regulations because no new switches or lights are added to the vehicle and the operation of the headlight is done automatically in a way which is now done manually and legally.

Your reply will be appreciated.

P.S. Please sent me a copy of STD 108