This bill aims to revise vehicular traffic laws concerning pedestrian crossings by establishing the offense of endangerment of pedestrians and outlining corresponding penalties. Under the new provisions, individuals convicted of violating Section 61-8-502 will face misdemeanor charges with fines that increase with subsequent offenses. Specifically, for violations occurring at pedestrian crossings with activated pedestrian-actuated devices, the fines will be set at a minimum of $150 for second or subsequent violations, reflecting a significant increase from previous penalties. Additionally, drivers who damage pedestrian-actuated devices will be liable for repair or replacement costs, and failure to pay fines may result in civil contempt of court.

The bill also amends Section 61-8-502 to clarify the responsibilities of vehicle operators when approaching pedestrian-actuated devices. Operators must yield to pedestrians and remain stopped until they have safely crossed, with exceptions for vehicles that reach intersections before the device is engaged. The bill introduces definitions for "pedestrian-actuated device" and specifies that it includes various types of traffic-control devices designed to enhance pedestrian safety. Overall, the legislation seeks to enhance pedestrian safety and enforce stricter penalties for violations that endanger pedestrians.

Statutes affected:
LC Text: 61-8-502
SB0471_1(1): 61-8-502
SB0471_1(2): 61-8-502
SB0471_1(3): 61-8-502
SB0471_1(4): 61-8-502
SB0471_1: 61-8-502
SB0471_2(1): 61-8-502
SB0471_2(10): 61-8-502
SB0471_2(11): 61-8-502
SB0471_2(12): 61-8-502
SB0471_2(2): 61-8-502
SB0471_2(3): 61-8-502
SB0471_2(4): 61-8-502
SB0471_2(5): 61-8-502
SB0471_2(6): 61-8-502
SB0471_2(7): 61-8-502
SB0471_2(8): 61-8-502
SB0471_2(9): 61-8-502
SB0471_2: 61-8-502
SB0471_X(1): 61-8-502
SB0471_X(2): 61-8-502
SB0471_X(3): 61-8-502
SB0471_X(4): 61-8-502
SB0471_X(5): 61-8-502
SB0471_X(6): 61-8-502
SB0471_X(7): 61-8-502
SB0471_X: 61-8-502