This bill, known as "Sherrill's Law," amends existing motorist duties when approaching highway emergencies. It specifically adds provisions for drivers to give a wide berth to stopped or standing vehicles that display warning signals, such as hazard lights, road flares, traffic cones, caution signs, or any non-vehicular warning signs. The bill modifies RSA 265:37-a, I to include these vehicles alongside other emergencies like fires, collisions, and police traffic stops, thereby expanding the scope of situations in which drivers must exercise caution.

Additionally, the bill emphasizes the need for drivers to maintain a reduced speed and, if practical, to give a wide berth to public safety personnel and any individuals in the roadway. It removes the previous requirement for drivers to give a wide berth only to vehicles displaying emergency lights, thereby broadening the responsibility of motorists to include all stopped or standing vehicles with warning signals. The act is set to take effect 60 days after its passage, on September 13, 2025.

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