Gov. Glenn Youngkin signed SB777, a bill to ban the dangerous vehicle modification known as the “Carolina Squat” Monday at a ceremony in Lynchburg.
The governor was joined by the bill’s patron, State Sen. Mark Peake (R-Lynchburg), and other legislative and law enforcement leaders. The family of Jody “BJ” Upton Jr., who was killed in a collision with a truck with Carolina Squat modifications this year, also joined the governor for the signing.
“I’m honored today to be here with BJ’s family, the public servants who acted quickly to move legislation to my desk to address the problem, and the law enforcement heroes who will enforce this new law and keep our roads and highways safer,” Youngkin said. “Nothing can bring BJ back, but with faith, time and love we can begin to heal from the pain of losing him. But the spirit of Virginia is strong, and when Virginians see a problem they come together and act.”
SB 777 bans Carolina squat-style modifications on Virginia highways by further specifying that, within the absolute minimum and maximum height ranges, the height of the front bumper is to be no more than four inches greater than the height of the rear bumper.
Carolina Squat-style modifications are impractical, and can also be very dangerous. The suspension modifications change the function and handling of the vehicles. If the front end of the vehicle is higher than the rear end, the headlights are pointed towards the sky instead of illuminating the road ahead. The truck being angled compromises the driver’s view and alters the dispersion of mechanical force in the event of a collision.
The bill will become law within the next day once it is formally communicated back to the House Clerk’s Office and enrolled in the Act of Assembly.
Share
Contributors
