PriceProtect™
DriveShield™
GarageGuard™
Services
Insurance
Car Insurance
Compare Car Insurance with Jerry
Jerry’s Expert Advice
Car Insurance Estimates
Home & Renters Insurance
Renters Insurance
Repairs
Car Repair Estimates
Repair Estimates for Popular Services
Advice
Read Car Content
Browse Jerry Car Advice
Check Out Expert Car QnA
Learn About How We Create Content
Jerry Data & Research
Do electric cars make any noises to alert blind people?
I was driving next to an electric car today, and it’s so quiet! I didn’t even notice it at first. It seems too quiet, actually. What about people who are visually impaired? How do they know an electric vehicle is nearby? Do electric cars make any noises to alert blind people?
Bellina Gaskey · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
Details:
Answer:
Good question! As of September 2020, all “quiet” vehicles must emit warning noises pedestrians can hear over background noises if the vehicle is traveling at less than 18.6 mph.
Electric vehicles are more than whisper-quiet; they’re downright sneaky. With more states introducing
legislation to make EVs the future of the roads
, it could be dangerous for EVs to be so quiet.As far back as 2010 the government knew how quiet these vehicles were, and was making efforts to make sure they would be safe for the visually impaired.
In 2018, legislation for “quiet” vehicles (meaning that both
hybrid and electric vehicles
are covered under this legislation) was introduced. This legislation came into full effect September 2020, making all quiet vehicles equipped with a sound that’s triggered when the vehicle travels under 18.6 mph. This speed was chosen because it’s the speed at which an electric vehicle starts to make noise that equals a gas vehicle.
So while electric vehicles are quiet, they’ll still make noise under 18 mph to make sure pedestrians are safe.
Whether your car runs on gasoline or electric power you always need insurance.
Jerry
, the number one car insurance comparison app will help you find the best rates.View full answer
- Gregory R.
WHY YOU CAN TRUST JERRY
Jerry partners with more than 50 insurance companies, but our content is independently researched, written, and fact-checked by our team of editors and agents. We aren’t paid for reviews or other content.
Join 4M+ members in lowering their car insurance
You Might Also Be Interested
Read Advice From Car Experts At Jerry
What Others Are Asking
Browse More Content
Insurance in Your State
Easiest way to compare and buy car insurance
No long forms
No spam or unwanted phone calls
Quotes from top insurance companies