D.O.T. AUTO SAFETY HOTLINE

If you own a car or truck that you feel has a safety defect you should report the problem to the Hotline at the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) of the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT). The DOT Auto Safety Hotline specializes in gathering information about safety problems in motor vehicles and equipment and is your chance to help identify these problems which sometimes lead to recalls. The Hotline can be dialed toll free at 1-888-DASH-2-DOT (1-888-327-4236).

In operation since 1975, the DOT Auto Safety Hotline is NHTSA's "Single Point of Contact," where you can obtain information about motor vehicle safety, Child Safety Seats, vehicle importation and certification, and air bags. You may also speak with a consultant who will file a report on your vehicle's safety defect and provide you with recall and other valuable information. All of these services are available by mail or fax from the Hotline and through the Internet at www.nhtsa.dot.gov/hotline where you can now file your safety defect report online. Your report can help NHTSA evaluate the problem you are experiencing with your vehicle and determine if a recall and remedy by the manufacturer will be required. You should also contact your dealer or repair shop for diagnosis and repair.

NHTSA encourages schools, companies, clubs, and other organizations to help increase public awareness of the Hotline by starting their own safety outreach programs. You can order posters, flyers, and other complimentary literature for your program by doing to the home page, www.nhtsa.dot.gov/hotline and clicking on Outreach Program. You may also contact Gene Luke at 202-366-0988, FAX

703-734-7808, e-mail gluke@nhtsa.dot.gov to order Hotline literature, which will be delivered to your organization at no charge.