§ 32:342 — Performance ability of brakes

§342. Performance ability of brakes
A. Every motor vehicle or combination of vehicles, at all times and under all
conditions of loading, upon application of the service (foot) brake, shall be capable of:
(1) Developing a braking force that is not less than the percentage of its gross weight
tabulated herein for its classification;
(2) Decelerating in a stop from not more than 20 miles per hour at not less than the
feet per second tabulated herein for its classification; and
(3) Stopping from a speed of 20 miles per hour in not more than the distance
tabulated herein for its classification, such distance to be measured from the point at which
movement of the service brake pedal or control begins.
B. Test for deceleration and stopping distance shall be made on a substantially level
(not to exceed plus or minus one per cent grade), smooth, hard surface that is free from loose
material.
(1) Passenger vehicles, not
including buses
(2) Single-unit vehicles with a
manufacturer's
gross weight rating
of less than 10,000
pounds
(3) Single-unit, 2 axle vehicles with a
manufacturer's
gross vehicle weight
rating of 10,000 lbs.
or more, and buses
not having a
manufacturer's
gross vehicle weight
rating
(4) All other vehicles and combinations
with a manufac-
turer's gross vehicle
weight rating of
10,000 or more lbs.

Legislative History

Acts 1962, No. 310, §1; Acts 2014, No. 438, §1.