U.S. Government Compulsory Bus Installs Safety Belts

The National Highway Safety Administration (NHTSA) recently proposed a new motion requiring commercial buses to install seat belts. Prior to this, small school buses weighing less than 10,000 pounds had been forced to install seat belts.

The finalization of the new bill will take effect after the next three years. In addition, within 90 days after the motion is finalized, it is the public comment period.

Detroit News pointed out that although the government can force buses to install seat belts, they cannot force passengers to wear seat belts. The states of the United States can use seat belts separately, just as they require passenger cars to have seat belts installed.

However, NHTSA does not currently require buses that have been produced or put into use to install seat belts, as it will cost about US$1.1 billion. The new seat belt bus will cost about $25.8 million annually. In addition, due to the increased weight of the car due to the additional seat belts and fixed systems, each bus is estimated to add an additional $1,000 in fuel cost during its service life.

However, NHTSA stated that after installing seat belts, the number of people killed in traffic accidents can be reduced by 8 each year, and the number of injured people is reduced by 790 people.