The proposed bill aims to enhance public safety by establishing new liability standards for vehicle collisions involving pedestrians, bicycles, and minor motor vehicles. It introduces a presumption of negligence for major motor vehicle operators involved in such collisions, as well as for minor motor vehicle or bicycle operators when colliding with pedestrians. The bill outlines that defendants can rebut this presumption by proving they were not negligent, while plaintiffs must demonstrate their damages and the defendant's negligence as the cause of those damages. Additionally, it allows for the recovery of actual damages, statutory damages of $1,500, and reasonable attorney fees in certain circumstances.

Furthermore, the bill stipulates that if a vehicle or bicycle operator is unknown, the legal owner is presumed to be the operator unless they can prove otherwise. It also addresses contributory negligence, stating that if a plaintiff is found to be contributorily negligent, the standards in chapter 4.22 RCW will apply. The bill includes definitions for key terms such as "bicycle," "major motor vehicle," and "minor motor vehicle," and clarifies that it does not affect other civil remedies or criminal laws. Overall, the legislation seeks to create a more structured approach to liability in vehicle collisions to promote accountability and safety on the roads.