Rules on Auto Safety Whistleblower Program Are Finally Here

Great advances have been made in automobile safety over the past couple of generations, but defects in manufacturing and design still frequently prompt recalls, and sometimes lead to serious accidents. Following up on the success of other government whistleblower programs, the Fixing America’s Surface Transportation Act mandated that a similar structure be put in place to improve car and truck safety. 

Though it took a while to finalize the details, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has finalized its whistleblower program. It applies to a broad range of individuals involved in the automotive sector, including current or former employees and contractors of vehicle manufacturers, parts suppliers and dealerships. By casting a wide net, the government intends to ensure that people with first-hand knowledge of potential hazards have a clear avenue to report concerns.

Under the program, NHTSA encourages whistleblowers to provide information on issues such as:

  • Defects affecting a vehicle’s safety — With thousands of individual parts, a problem that could affect a vehicle’s operation might be easy to miss. Reporting on a defect that presents a risk to drivers, passengers or other road users qualifies an individual for whistleblower protection.

  • Noncompliance with federal motor vehicle safety standards — An extensive set of regulations governs the manufacture and design of motor vehicles, but government officials cannot keep track of each task completed in each factory. Consequently, employees are empowered to cite any violation federal standards, including the Vehicle Safety Act.

The information provided by whistleblowers can reduce the likelihood of accidents throughout the country. When a potential danger is noted, it might lead to a formal investigation, a recall of defective vehicles or civil enforcement actions against violators.

NHTSA has developed a dedicated webpage where potential whistleblowers can learn about the program and the safeguards in place to protect them from retaliation. These protections are crucial in encouraging individuals to come forward without fear of jeopardizing their careers or personal well-being.

If you have information about vehicle safety violations or defects, consulting with a whistleblower attorney at Kardell Law Group can advise you of the applicable process, help you understand your rights, and maximize the impact of your report.