This bill, known as "Sherrill's Law," amends existing motorist duties when approaching highway emergencies. It expands the definition of highway emergencies to include not only incidents involving fire, collisions, or utility work but also stopped or standing vehicles that display warning signals, such as hazard lights, road flares, or caution signs. The bill mandates that drivers, except for those operating emergency response vehicles, must maintain a reduced speed and, if practical, give a wide berth to public safety personnel, individuals in the roadway, and vehicles displaying emergency lights or warning signals.

Additionally, the bill removes a previous provision that specifically required drivers to give a wide berth only to vehicles displaying emergency or warning lights. Instead, it emphasizes the need to provide a wide berth to any stopped or standing vehicle that is displaying appropriate warning signals. The effective date of the law is set for 60 days after its passage, which is September 13, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 265:37-a
Version adopted by both bodies: 265:37-a
CHAPTERED FINAL VERSION: 265:37-a