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Bill

A 5259

Relates to the operation of vehicles when approaching a parked, stopped or standing authorized emergency vehicle or hazard vehicle or vehicle displaying a blue or green light

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Chris Tague

Bill A 5259 enhances road safety by requiring drivers to slow down and change lanes when approaching stopped emergency vehicles, protecting first responders on the road.

REFERRED TO TRANSPORTATION
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · A 5259

Summary of Bill A 5259

Bill Information

  • Bill Number: A 5259
  • Title: Relates to the operation of vehicles when approaching a parked, stopped or standing authorized emergency vehicle or hazard vehicle or vehicle displaying a blue or green light
  • Status: Referred to Transportation
  • Introduced: February 12, 2025
  • Classification: Bill

Purpose and Intent

Bill A 5259 aims to enhance road safety by establishing clearer guidelines for drivers when approaching vehicles that are parked, stopped, or standing on the roadway. This includes authorized emergency vehicles, hazard vehicles, and vehicles displaying blue or green lights. The intent is to protect first responders and other personnel working on or near roadways, thereby reducing the risk of accidents and injuries.

Key Provisions

The bill proposes the following key provisions:

  1. Increased Awareness: Drivers must be aware of their surroundings and take necessary precautions when approaching any vehicle that is parked, stopped, or standing on the road.

  2. Reduced Speed Requirement: The bill may include a requirement for drivers to reduce their speed when passing these vehicles, ensuring a safer distance is maintained.

  3. Lane Change Requirement: If possible, drivers are encouraged to change lanes to provide a buffer zone between their vehicle and the stopped vehicle, particularly for emergency vehicles.

  4. Penalties for Non-Compliance: The bill may outline specific penalties for drivers who fail to comply with these provisions, although details on fines or enforcement measures are not specified in the current version.

Who Would Be Affected

  • Drivers: All motorists operating vehicles on public roadways would be required to adhere to the new guidelines.
  • Emergency Personnel: First responders, including police, firefighters, and medical personnel, would benefit from increased safety while performing their duties on the road.
  • Public Safety Advocates: Organizations focused on road safety may support the bill as it aligns with efforts to reduce traffic-related injuries and fatalities.

Procedural Aspects

  • The bill was introduced on February 12, 2025, and has been referred to the Transportation Committee for further consideration.
  • It is important to note that this bill is related to several prior-session bills (S 8196, S 1332, S 2270, A 10192) and has a companion bill (S 311), indicating ongoing legislative interest in this area.

Conclusion

Bill A 5259 seeks to improve roadway safety for both drivers and emergency personnel by establishing clear operational guidelines when approaching stationary vehicles displaying emergency signals. As it progresses through the legislative process, further details regarding specific provisions and penalties may be clarified.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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