Senate Bill No. by Senator Wheat amends R.S. 32:125 to enhance the procedures for approaching emergency and disabled vehicles on or near highways. The bill introduces new language that specifies the definition of authorized emergency vehicles and outlines the colors of lights that these vehicles may display, including green, amber, blue, red, or yellow warning lights. It also clarifies that drivers must yield the right-of-way to authorized emergency vehicles making use of audible or visual signals and must either change lanes or slow down when approaching any vehicle that is parked, disabled, or using visual signals.

Additionally, the bill removes certain outdated provisions regarding the procedures for approaching parked vehicles and emphasizes the responsibility of drivers to maintain a safe speed for road conditions. It establishes that the Department of Public Safety and Corrections will be responsible for promulgating rules related to these procedures. The changes are set to take effect on August 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
SB40 Original: