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Honda Says "No" to Seat Belts for Larger Passengers
Administrator
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration
400 Seventh Street, S.W.
Washington, D.C. 20590
Re: Elizabeth Fisher's Petition for an amendment to SEC. 571.209 Standard
No. 209, Seat Belt Assemblies.
June, 2000
Dear Administrator:
I am writing to voice my support of Elizabeth Fisher's petition to amend 49CFR571.209.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and President Clinton's Buckle Up America campaign are asking America to buckle up. A very important message for all people.
There is one flaw in the campaign however... a great percentage of Americans cannot use the seatbelts in their cars. In order for all Americans to be able to buckle up, vehicle manufacturers must be required to manufacture seat belt assemblies that fit all people, not just those who weigh less than 215 lbs.
Many states, including mine, have laws which make seatbelt usage mandatory. Fine. But if the government doesn't support legislation which would provide seatbelts that fit larger Americans, then they will be forced to break the law and, more importantly, be in great danger of physical harm if involved in an accident.
Vehicles come in all shapes and sizes, just like people, and if a person fits in a vehicle, they ought to be able to buckle their seat belt.
Jennifer Heftler