SAFETY * USA - Feds May Order All Light Duty Vehicles to Have Backup Cameras by 2014

Congress required auto safety upgrades in 2008, in response to dozens of cases of children getting backed over by cars

Washington,DC,USA -The Detroit News -December 3, 2010: -- Law named for Cameron Gulbransen, 2-year-old NY boy killed when father backed over him. Nearly 300 people killed and 18K injured each year because of backovers. Nearly 1/2 the deaths involve children under age 5; crashes also affect the elderly. Family member responsible for the death in about 70% of cases... Transportation Department proposing new requirements to improve rear visibility by 2014 model year... Automakers have been adding video cameras and object detection sensors to vehicles. Backup cameras optional on most vehicles; about 20% of 2010 vehicles w/ cameras onboard... Government proposal expected to be completed next year after public comment period. Under plan, 10% of vehicles must meet standards by 2012 model year, 40% in 2013, all vehicles by 2014...   Rules apply to all passenger cars, SUVs, Pickups, minivans, other vehicles up to 10K lbs... (Photo: Backover child)