Micahel Tebbi - Comments

I agree with the automakers, and now the Agency, that the horn need not have high contrast icons as long as it can be activated by pressing on the center of the steering wheel. The center of the steering wheel is where I, and I suspect other consumers, expect the horn to be, and therefore no icon is needed. I am concerned about the possibility that horns placed in the centers of steering wheels could lead to injuries. It seems likely that a consumer will be honking the car?s horn as he collides with another vehicle. If the air bag deploys while the driver?s hand is pressing against the center of the steering wheel, I believe there may be a possibility of injury to the driver?s arm or shoulder. This should be balanced against the advantages of having the horn placed in an the easiest to find location?the center of the steering wheel. An easier to find horn can lead to saving lives and property because some accidents will be avoided altogether. The Agency should investigate the risk of horn placement and its effect on safety.