Posted 9/14/2004 06:00:00 PM by Douglas

It's about time that the government did something to protect us from ourselves and our cars.

In an effort to prevent child deaths, the government is requiring automakers to install safer switches on power windows by 2008.

Officials with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration announced the requirement yesterday in Columbus, Ohio, with Senator Mike DeWine, Republican of Ohio, who pushed for the change. The regulation aims to help prevent a child's head or limb from being caught in a power window, said Dr. Jeffrey Runge, NHTSA chief.

The rule would outlaw toggle switches, which rock back and forth, in all vehicles sold in the United States by Oct. 1, 2008. Automakers can replace them with several different designs, including switches that are flush with the armrest and require the occupant to lift up to close the window.

Preventing child deaths. Ok, is there going to be anyone opposing this one? If two switches cost about the same, do the same job, but one is inherently safer than the other, is that really a decision? What's the problem? Kids being left in cars unattended by their parents? Well, actually, it is. The Father of this Ohio Legislation (and a girl that died in a car window) is pushing for all cars to be better baby sitters by the year 2008.

But if a car is now going to be a safe place to leave you children alone during the day, how 'bout a night out drinking? Is tomorrow's car going to be safer then? You betcha! At least in New Jersey if this bill becomes law.

ASSEMBLY, No. 2631
STATE OF NEW JERSEY
211th LEGISLATURE
INTRODUCED MAY 3, 2004
Sponsored by:
Assemblyman PATRICK DIEGNAN, JR.
District 18 (Middlesex)
Assemblyman JOSEPH V. EGAN
District 17 (Middlesex and Somerset)
Co-Sponsored by:
Assemblyman Wisniewski
SYNOPSIS: Requires all new passenger automobiles to be equipped with ignition interlock devices after 2009.

Say huh?!? And their not alone, as New Mexico and New York are after the same thing. (No word yet as to the drafting of New Hampshire's bill). But what the heck? Interlock devices have been mandatory for those convicted of DWIs that paid the court costs to retain their driver's license for commuting to work, but for everyone? I can only imagine what this would do to MADD's funding if every little old lady who's lips have never touched the demon alcohol had to lean over in their car and blow on a tube before it would start.

I just don't know if I feel safe having a car in my home anymore. It might be time to trade it in for an recently unbanned assault weapon.