FMCSA Opens Comment on Petroleum Hauler's Pulsing Brake Light Request

FMCSA published a notice October 26 seeking comment on an exemption application from R.B. Stewart Petroleum Products, Inc. (USDOT No. 1290158). The company wants a five-year exemption from 49 CFR 393.25(e), which requires commercial vehicle exterior lamps to be steady-burning.

R.B. Stewart wants to install a module made by Intellistop, Inc. that pulses rear clearance, identification and brake lamps from low to high intensity four times in two seconds when brakes are applied, then returns the lamps to steady-burning while braking continues. The carrier argues the pulsing pattern improves visibility for following drivers, giving them more warning and reaction time, particularly important for its cargo tank trailers. R.B. Stewart cited National Highway Traffic Safety Administration research on enhanced rear lighting to support its safety case.

FMCSA noted it denied an industry-wide exemption request from Intellistop itself in October 2022, but said that denial does not bar individual carriers from seeking their own carrier-specific exemptions, subject to monitoring conditions. The agency said it is reviewing this application consistent with that 2022 decision.

What's next

• Comments on Docket No. FMCSA-2026-3730 are due November 25, 2026.
• FMCSA will publish its decision, including any terms and conditions, in the Federal Register after reviewing comments.

All sources

• Parts and Accessories Necessary for Safe Operation; Application for an Exemption From R.B. Stewart Petroleum Products, Inc. (USDOT #1290158) — Government site: Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), 2026-10-26