Senate Bill 345 aims to enhance pedestrian safety at intersections and crosswalks by mandating that vehicle operators stop their vehicles and remain stopped until pedestrians, personal delivery devices, bicyclists, or riders of electric scooters or personal assistive mobility devices have completely crossed the roadway. This requirement replaces the current law, which only requires vehicle operators to yield the right-of-way under certain conditions. The bill amends several sections of the statutes, including 346.23 and 346.24, to reflect this change, emphasizing the need for vehicles to stop rather than merely yield when pedestrians are present.

In addition to the primary requirement for stopping, the bill also clarifies that pedestrians and other non-motorized users must yield to vehicles when they are lawfully proceeding ahead on a green signal. The amendments include specific language adjustments to ensure that the new stopping requirement is clearly articulated in various traffic scenarios, including those involving traffic signals and controlled intersections. Overall, the bill seeks to improve safety for vulnerable road users by reinforcing the obligation of vehicle operators to prioritize pedestrian crossings.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 346.23(1), 346.23, 346.23(2), 346.24(1), 346.24, 346.24(2), 346.37(1)(a)1, 346.37, 346.37(1)(c)3, 346.37(1)(c)4, 346.37(1)(d)1, 346.37(1)(e)1