Lawsuit Seeks to Force U.S. Mandate on Backup Cameras

Consumer groups intend to file a federal lawsuit today to force the U.S. Dept. of Transportation to require backup cameras in new cars.

Such devices are already available in about 77% of 2013-model cars and light trucks sold in America, according to Edmunds.com. But the consumer advocates want DOT to deliver a standard for the technology as it was ordered to do by the U.S. Congress in 2008.

DOT proposed rules for backup cameras in 2010. But a final mandate for the systems has been delayed by automaker estimates that the law could cost as much as $2.7 billion.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has estimated that the systems would cost $58 to install in a vehicle already equipped with the necessary display screen and $203 if both the screen and camera were required.

NHTSA says it will add rearview cameras to its list of recommended safety features. The agency figures about half the 300 people who die annually in the U.S. in back-over accidents could be saved if the cameras were standard equipment in all cars.

The lawsuit is being brought by Consumers Union, Advocates for Highway and Auto Safety, Kids and Cars Inc., and two parents who accidentally backed over their children.