This bill amends existing traffic laws to impose new conditions on drivers approaching certain stationary vehicles, specifically those owned or leased by public utilities, as well as vehicles owned or leased by employees of public utilities or their family members, when these vehicles are displaying flashing lights. Drivers are required to either change lanes away from these vehicles, if safe to do so, or reduce their speed to a reasonable level below the posted speed limit while being prepared to stop. Violations of this provision can result in fines ranging from $100 to $500, and individuals convicted of three or more offenses within a 12-month period will incur two motor vehicle penalty points.

Additionally, the bill mandates that the Director of the Division of Highway Traffic Safety establish a public awareness campaign that includes information about the importance of reducing speed and changing lanes when approaching not only authorized emergency vehicles but also tow trucks, highway maintenance vehicles, sanitation vehicles, and public utility vehicles. The campaign will also highlight the risks associated with non-compliance and the penalties for violations.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 39:4-92.2, 39:4-92.3