Yes, steering wheel knobs are legal in Tennessee (TN). There are no specific state laws prohibiting their use, but they must be installed correctly and should not interfere with the safe operation of the vehicle. They are particularly useful for drivers with disabilities or those who need easier maneuverability.
Steering wheel knobs, often referred to as spinner knobs or brodie knobs, are devices that attach to a vehicle’s steering wheel, enabling the driver to steer more easily with one hand. These devices can be particularly beneficial for drivers with disabilities, those who frequently maneuver in tight spaces, or individuals driving larger vehicles.
However, the legality of steering wheel knobs varies by state, and in this blog post, we will explore their legality in Tennessee (TN).
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Legal Framework in Tennessee
The legality of steering wheel knobs in Tennessee is not explicitly addressed in the state’s statutes or vehicle codes. However, the use of these devices is generally governed by broader vehicle safety regulations, as well as federal guidelines that apply to vehicle modifications.
Tennessee Vehicle Code
While the Tennessee Vehicle Code does not specifically mention steering wheel knobs, it does contain provisions that relate to the safe operation of vehicles and the use of adaptive devices for drivers with disabilities.
- Tennessee Code Annotated (TCA) § 55-9-105: This section of the Tennessee Code requires that all vehicles operated on the roadways must be equipped with safety devices that are in proper working order. The installation of a steering wheel knob must not interfere with the vehicle’s safety systems or the driver’s ability to control the vehicle.
- TCA § 55-9-202: This section states that it is illegal to drive a vehicle that is in such unsafe condition as to endanger any person. A poorly installed or malfunctioning steering wheel knob could potentially be considered a safety hazard under this provision.
In general, Tennessee law emphasizes the importance of vehicle safety and the driver’s ability to maintain control over the vehicle. Therefore, the use of a steering wheel knob is permissible as long as it does not compromise these principles.
Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS)
The Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS) set forth regulations that apply to vehicle modifications across all states, including Tennessee. These standards are designed to ensure that vehicles remain safe to operate even after modifications.
- FMVSS No. 101 – Controls and Displays: This standard requires that all vehicle controls, including those added as modifications, must be easy to use and must not interfere with the driver’s ability to control the vehicle safely.
- FMVSS No. 111 – Rear Visibility: Although primarily focused on rear visibility systems, this standard also implies that any modification to the vehicle, including steering wheel knobs, should not obstruct the driver’s view or hinder their ability to monitor surrounding traffic.
Under these federal standards, steering wheel knobs are allowed as long as they do not impair the driver’s control of the vehicle or obstruct the operation of other essential controls.
Use by Drivers with Disabilities
Steering wheel knobs are particularly important for drivers with disabilities, as they provide the necessary assistance to drive safely and comfortably. In Tennessee, the use of adaptive devices such as steering wheel knobs is supported by both state and federal laws.
Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is a federal law that protects the rights of individuals with disabilities and ensures they have equal access to public services, including driving. The ADA requires that reasonable accommodations be made for drivers with disabilities, which includes allowing the installation of adaptive devices like steering wheel knobs.
- Vehicle Modifications: Under the ADA, drivers with disabilities may modify their vehicles to meet their specific needs, provided these modifications are safe and compliant with state and federal regulations.
In Tennessee, drivers with disabilities who require the use of a steering wheel knob should ensure that their vehicle is properly modified and that they have the necessary documentation, such as a medical certification, to support their need for the device.
Insurance Considerations
When modifying a vehicle with a steering wheel knob, it is important to notify your insurance provider. In Tennessee, as in other states, failing to declare vehicle modifications can result in the invalidation of your insurance policy.
- Updating Your Policy: Insurance companies may require information about the modification, including who installed the steering wheel knob and why it was installed. If the knob is required for medical reasons, providing documentation from a healthcare provider or a note from the DMV can help ensure that your policy is updated accordingly.
- Impact on Premiums: Depending on the insurance company, adding a steering wheel knob may or may not affect your premiums. Some insurers may consider it a minor modification, while others may view it as a significant change that could impact your coverage terms.
It is advisable to check with your insurance provider before installing a steering wheel knob to understand how it may affect your policy and to ensure that you remain fully covered.
Safety Considerations and Best Practices
While steering wheel knobs can be beneficial, there are important safety considerations to keep in mind:
- Proper Installation: Ensuring that the steering wheel knob is securely attached to the steering wheel is crucial. A loose or improperly installed knob can lead to loss of control and increase the risk of accidents.
- Quality and Durability: Use a high-quality steering wheel knob that is designed for your specific type of vehicle. Cheap or poorly made knobs may not hold up under regular use and could pose safety risks.
- Positioning: The steering wheel knob should be positioned in a way that does not interfere with other controls or the driver’s ability to maneuver the vehicle. It should also not obstruct the driver’s view or the deployment of airbags.
- Training and Familiarization: Drivers who are not accustomed to using a steering wheel knob should practice using it in a safe environment before driving in traffic. This will help them become familiar with the steering dynamics and ensure safe operation.
Legal Precautions and Documentation
To ensure compliance with Tennessee law and federal regulations, drivers using steering wheel knobs should consider the following precautions:
- Medical Certification: For drivers with disabilities, having a medical certification that supports the need for a steering wheel knob can be important in case of legal or insurance inquiries.
- DMV Notification: While not always required, notifying the Tennessee Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) of the modification can provide an additional layer of protection, especially if the knob is used as an adaptive device.
- Vehicle Inspection: After installing a steering wheel knob, consider having your vehicle inspected by a certified mechanic to ensure that the modification does not impair safety or compliance with state regulations.
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Conclusion
In Tennessee, steering wheel knobs are generally legal, provided they are installed correctly and do not interfere with the safe operation of the vehicle. While the state’s vehicle code does not explicitly address steering wheel knobs, their use is governed by broader vehicle safety regulations and federal standards.
For drivers with disabilities, steering wheel knobs can be an essential tool for maintaining independence and safe driving. It is important to ensure that these devices are installed properly, that any necessary documentation is in place, and that insurance providers are notified of the modification.
By following best practices for installation and use, and by staying informed about relevant laws and insurance requirements, drivers in Tennessee can use steering wheel knobs safely and legally. Whether for convenience, necessity, or accessibility, steering wheel knobs offer enhanced control and ease of use for a wide range of drivers.