§ 22-416. Energy absorption system

   (a) Purpose of section. -- The purpose of this section is to provide additional safety standards for private passenger automobiles, not only to afford additional protection for passengers in them, but also to eliminate damage to an automobile at a specified speed by more adequate bumper protection for the chassis of the vehicle.

(b) "Private passenger automobile" defined. -- In this section, "private passenger automobile" means a four-wheeled motor vehicle designed principally for carrying passengers, for use on public roads and highways, and not designed for use principally as a dwelling or for camping.

(c) Manufacturer's warranty required. -- Every private passenger automobile manufactured on and after January 1, 1974, and sold or titled and registered in this State, shall be sold subject to the manufacturer's warranty that it is equipped with an appropriate energy absorption system that meets the requirements for energy absorption systems set by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

(d) Certification in lieu of warranty. -- The warranty provisions of this section are not applicable with respect to any private passenger automobile as to which the manufacturer files a written certification under oath with the Administration, on a form to be prescribed by it, that the particular make and model described in the certification complies with the applicable standards of this section.

HISTORY: An. Code 1957, art. 66 1/2, § 12-416; 1977, ch. 14, § 2.