This bill amends Montana's move-over law to include "highway maintenance vehicles" as stationary vehicles that drivers must move over for when displaying flashing lights. It defines a "highway maintenance vehicle" as an authorized vehicle engaged in highway maintenance activities while displaying lights that meet Department of Transportation requirements. The bill updates existing sections of the Montana Code Annotated (MCA), specifically sections 61-1-101, 61-3-317, and 61-8-346, to incorporate this new definition and requirement, aiming to enhance safety for highway maintenance workers and reduce the risk of accidents.

Additionally, the bill clarifies various definitions related to motor vehicles, modifies the grace period for new owners of transferred vehicles, and emphasizes the need for caution around emergency vehicles, including highway maintenance vehicles. It mandates that drivers yield the right-of-way to these vehicles and introduces penalties for non-compliance, classifying such actions as reckless endangerment of emergency personnel. The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2023, reinforcing the importance of road safety for both maintenance personnel and drivers.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 61-1-101, 61-3-317, 61-8-346