Emission Rules Differ for Cars, Trucks, Buses

Dear Traffic Talk:

I was trapped behind a large truck on a freeway and unable to change lanes. As a result I had to inhale nauseating exhaust fumes. The frequency of this problem prompts the question, why are operators of buses and trucks not required to adhere to the same pollution-emission regulations as drivers of automobiles? Or do they have different rules to follow?

Robert B. Wolcott, Encino

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Dear Robert:

There are different standards that depend on the type of engine and the weight of the vehicle, California Air Resources Board spokesman Richard Varenchik said.

The state board sets and monitors the emission levels for products statewide, including motor vehicles.

Beginning in June, large vehicles, including semitrucks and buses, will be subject to roadside inspections at California Highway Patrol truck scales and border patrol stations. The inspections will check the exhaust for darkness of smoke.

Beyond a certain level, citations and an $800 fine will be issued, Varenchik said. School buses can waive the fine if the problem is repaired in 45 days. If trucks repair the problem in 45 days, $500 of the fee will be waived.

Varenchik said that although heavy-duty vehicles make up only 2% of the on-road vehicle population, they contribute 65% of the soot and dust to the air and nearly a third of the nitrogen oxides that later turn to ozone, a major component of smog.

The agency has another set of regulations for light trucks and sports utility vehicles. When getting a smog check, those heavier vehicles have emitted up to twice the amount of pollutants as passenger vehicles, which have the most strict regulations.

Beginning in 2004, the regulations will be the same for cars and light trucks.

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Dear Traffic Talk:

One of the most irritating things I see every day is the complete absence in the usage of the turn indicator on vehicles.

Do you have to use a turn signal whenever you’re making a turn, or is it only in major traffic situations?

Those big, beautiful electronic signs on the freeways could help by occasionally posting a “Use your turn indicator” as a reminder to those of us not talking on our car phones to put our free hand to good use.

Ken Clark, Studio City

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Dear Ken:

Turn signals should be used to alert other drivers to your intentions, CHP Sgt. Ernie Garcia said.

Turn signals do not have to be used when you are the only one on a roadway, but drivers should get in the habit of using the signal anyway, he said.

Signals may be given by hand and arm position or by signal lights on a vehicle.

If a vehicle is built so that hand and arm signals can’t be seen, signal lights must be used.

Garcia also said, according to the California Vehicle Code, a turn signal should be used any time a car is changing from a direct course, including pulling to or away from a curb and when changing lanes.

On the highway, it is best to signal at least five seconds before you change lanes, Garcia said.