Posted on 02/22/22

Backup Cameras Required

Backup Cameras Required

A backup camera was an option in the original car package. The United States now requires backup cameras for all new cars. An increase in accidents has prompted the demand for backup cameras. To prevent pedestrians from being run over by drivers backing up, new regulations require backup cameras. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) of the federal government, approximately 200 pedestrians are killed and 14,000 are injured each year due to cars backing up without seeing the pedestrian. After a number of other mandates to make backing up safer, this requirement was made. Congress passed in 2008 a law that required car companies to implement technology in their cars to improve rear view visibility. After many delays, however, the Department of Transportation required backup cameras in 2014. This gave car companies several years of preparation before it went into effect. Backup cameras have become mandatory as of May 2018. This is applicable to all vehicles less than 10,000 pounds. The vehicle's backup camera must have a minimum of a 10-foot by 20-foot zone. This requirement is not new to car companies. This option is already included in many packages for cars and models with higher-end features. This technology will be included in all new cars, even the most affordable. This will increase the cost of making cars and pass the costs on to consumers. The cost of building cars is relatively low compared to the benefits it has on saving lives. A forty-dollar increase in car prices can be expected by consumers.

Backup cameras are becoming increasingly common in new cars, and as of May 2018, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has made it mandatory for all new vehicles under 10,000 pounds to be equipped with rear-view cameras. This mandate was implemented to improve visibility and decrease the number of accidents caused by blind spots while reversing or backing up.

The cameras provide drivers with a wide-angle view of the area behind their vehicle, making it easier to spot pedestrians, bicycles, or other vehicles that may be in the driver's blind spot. This can help to reduce the risk of accidents, especially for large vehicles like trucks and SUVs.

The backup cameras also have other additional features such as parking sensors, lane-keeping assist, and automatic braking which can help prevent accidents while reversing.

The mandate applies to all new vehicles under 10,000 pounds manufactured on or after May 1, 2018, and must meet the following requirements:

  1. The camera must provide a view of the area behind the vehicle that is at least 10 feet by 20 feet wide
  2. The image must be displayed on the vehicle's infotainment screen or on a separate screen
  3. The image must be visible to the driver in all lighting conditions
  4. The camera must turn on automatically when the driver shifts into reverse gear

In conclusion, Backup cameras are now required by law for all new cars under 10,000 pounds manufactured on or after May 1, 2018, this measure is taken to improve visibility and decrease the number of accidents caused by blind spots while reversing or backing up. They provide a wide-angle view of the area behind the vehicle and can help reduce the risk of accidents, especially for large vehicles like trucks and SUVs.

Are you interested in shipping your new car with its backup camera? Contact us today!