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HB 2344

Relating generally to traffic safety

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Ryan Browning and 4 co-sponsors

House Bill 2344 boosts traffic safety in West Virginia by defining maintenance vehicles and requiring motorists to change lanes or slow down, protecting workers and drivers.

Chapter 229, Acts, Regular Session, 2025
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Bill Summary · HB 2344

Summary of House Bill 2344: Traffic Safety

Bill Number: HB 2344
Title: Relating generally to traffic safety
Status: Chapter 229, Acts, Regular Session, 2025
Introduced: January 30, 2025
Primary Sponsor: Delegate Laura Faver Dias
Co-Sponsor: Delegate Camille Y. Lilly

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 2344 aims to enhance traffic safety in West Virginia by establishing clearer definitions and rules regarding the operation of maintenance vehicles and the responsibilities of motorists when approaching such vehicles. The bill seeks to reduce accidents and improve safety for both maintenance workers and drivers on the road.

Key Provisions

1. Definition of Maintenance Vehicle

  • The bill introduces a new section, §17C-1-71, defining "maintenance vehicle" as any vehicle used by the state, political subdivisions, or public service companies for the maintenance of public highways, bridges, and related facilities.

2. Motorist Responsibilities

  • Amendments to §17C-14-9a outline specific actions motorists must take when approaching stationary maintenance vehicles, authorized emergency vehicles, or disabled vehicles displaying warning signals:
    • Lane Change Requirement: If safe and possible, drivers must change lanes away from the vehicle.
    • Speed Reduction: If changing lanes is not feasible, drivers must reduce their speed:
    • Non-divided highways: Maximum speed of 15 mph.
    • Divided highways: Maximum speed of 25 mph.

3. Penalties for Non-Compliance

  • Violations of these provisions are classified as misdemeanors with the following penalties:
    • General Violation: Fine up to $500 or up to 60 days in jail, or both.
    • Property Damage: 90-day suspension of driving privileges if the violation results in property damage.
    • Injury: 6-month suspension of driving privileges if the violation results in injury.
    • Death: 2-year suspension of driving privileges if the violation results in death.
    • Additional Violations: If a driver violates this section while also violating other traffic laws, fines range from $1,000 to $5,000, with possible jail time.

Impact

This legislation will primarily affect:
- Motorists: They will be required to adhere to new safety protocols when encountering maintenance vehicles, enhancing overall road safety.
- Maintenance Workers: Increased protection while performing their duties on public roads, potentially reducing accidents and injuries.
- Law Enforcement: New guidelines for enforcing traffic laws related to maintenance vehicles.

Procedural Timeline

  • January 30, 2025: Bill filed with the Clerk.
  • February 13, 2025: Introduced in the House and referred to the Committee on Energy and Public Works.
  • April 25, 2025: Approved by the Governor.
  • July 31, 2025: Became law as Chapter 229.

Conclusion

House Bill 2344 represents a significant step towards improving traffic safety in West Virginia by clearly defining maintenance vehicles and establishing specific responsibilities for motorists. The enhanced penalties for non-compliance aim to encourage safer driving behaviors, ultimately protecting both workers and the public on the roads.

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

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