A new study by Farmer & Morris Law reveals why North Carolina was among the first states to ban the controversial Carolina Squat vehicle modification. With nearly 60% of squatted vehicle accidents involving rollovers and 40% of drivers reporting reduced braking control, state officials
have taken strong action to curb the risks.
Key Findings:
North Carolina implemented its Carolina Squat ban in 2021, citing severe safety concerns, including impaired visibility and increased rollover risk.
The state enforces fines of up to $300 and a 12-month license suspension for repeat offenders.
Experts warn that raising a vehicle’s front-end drastically shifts its center of gravity, increasing the likelihood of fatal crashes.
Headlights on squatted vehicles blind oncoming drivers, creating additional hazards.
State-Specific Penalties for Carolina Squat Violations:
North Carolina:
North Carolina banned the Carolina Squat in 2021, citing significant safety concerns including reduced visibility and increased rollover risk.
South Carolina:
Banned in 2023, South Carolina enforced strict penalties due to rising accidents linked to squatted vehicles.
Tennessee:
Tennessee’s ban in 2024 followed numerous incidents involving squatted trucks, emphasizing safety hazards for both drivers and pedestrians.
Virginia:
Virginia implemented its ban in 2022, highlighting issues such as impaired braking and hazardous lighting angles.
Georgia:
Georgia’s 2024 ban offers slightly more flexibility with a 6-inch allowance but underscores the importance of road safety.
Methodology:
Collected data from state transportation departments to assess traffic incidents involving squatted vehicles.
Reviewed NHTSA reports for national road safety statistics.
Analyzed state-specific laws and penalties related to vehicle modifications.
Conducted expert interviews with automotive safety specialists and legal professionals.
Evaluated accident reports to determine the impact of Carolina Squat modifications on road safety.
Quote from Farmer & Morris Law:
“This study reveals that despite its storied history, the Carolina Squat vehicle modification poses an active threat to everyone on the road. Style should not overtake safety, especially when the squat is noted to increase drivers’ and passengers’ risks of rollovers and head-on collisions.
We believe that the preservation of roadway visibility and braking performance should supersede drivers’ intent to make their cars unique or reminiscent of an older style. The bans in North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee reflect growing awareness about the dangers of these cars.
We hope that by increasing awareness about the safety hazards of the Carolina Squat, we can discourage today’s drivers from investing in the modification and prevent otherwise avoidable accidents.”
I invite you to explore the full study here for a comprehensive analysis and expert insights.
Please feel free to reach out for further assistance.
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