Parts and Accessories Necessary for Safe Operation; Exemption Renewal From Vision Systems North America, Inc.
Published Date: 1/16/2025
Notice
Summary
The FMCSA has renewed Vision Systems North America’s exemption allowing trucks to use their Smart-Vision camera system instead of traditional side mirrors. This means motor carriers can keep using this high-tech setup from January 15, 2025, through January 15, 2030, helping drivers see better and stay safer on the road. Trucking companies affected should note this update keeps things modern without extra costs or delays.
Analyzed Economic Effects
7 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 4 costs, 1 mixed.
Five‑Year Renewal: Camera System Allowed
FMCSA renewed an exemption letting motor carriers operate commercial motor vehicles with Vision Systems North America’s Smart‑Vision high‑definition camera monitoring system instead of the two rear‑vision mirrors required by 49 CFR 393.80. The exemption is effective January 15, 2025 through January 15, 2030 (11:59 p.m. local time).
Exemption Limited to VSNA System
The exemption applies only to Vision Systems North America’s Smart‑Vision system and does not authorize the use of any other camera‑based mirror replacement technology on commercial motor vehicles during the exemption period.
Annual Reporting Required to FMCSA
Motor carriers using the Smart‑Vision system must report annually to FMCSA by email the total number of CMVs operating under the exemption and any crashes (other than front‑end crashes). Reports are due by the end of each calendar year starting from the exemption effective date.
Driver Pre‑Trip and Daily Inspection Rules
Drivers operating CMVs with Smart‑Vision must inspect the system before each trip, inspect it at the end of each day, note any defects on the driver vehicle inspection report (DVIR), and the motor carrier must repair defects before the CMV is operated again. Motor carriers must also periodically inspect the system in addition to the existing inspection required at least once every 12 months.
Five‑Day Safety Notification to FMCSA
If a motor carrier becomes aware that continued use of the Smart‑Vision system is no longer likely to maintain an equivalent level of safety, the carrier must notify FMCSA within 5 business days by email.
Federal Preemption of Conflicting State Rules
While the exemption is in effect (January 15, 2025 through January 15, 2030), no State may enforce a law or regulation that conflicts with or is inconsistent with the exemption for persons operating under it. States may choose to adopt the same exemption for intrastate operations but are not required to do so.
Exemption Can Be Rescinded for Safety or Noncompliance
FMCSA may rescind the exemption if carriers fail to comply with its terms and conditions, if the exemption results in a lower level of safety than before it was granted, or if continuing it would not be consistent with statutory goals. The exemption is effective January 15, 2025 through January 15, 2030 unless revoked earlier.
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