Assembly Bill 332 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 electric personal assistive mobility devices have completely crossed the roadway. This bill amends several sections of the statutes, specifically changing the language from requiring vehicle operators to "yield the right-of-way" to instead requiring them to "stop the vehicle when" these individuals are crossing. This change applies to both controlled and uncontrolled intersections, ensuring that the safety of pedestrians and other vulnerable road users is prioritized.
In addition to the primary requirement for vehicles to stop, the bill also clarifies that pedestrians and other users must not suddenly enter the path of a vehicle when it is difficult for the operator to stop. The amendments include specific provisions for various traffic signals, emphasizing that vehicle operators must yield to pedestrians and other users in crosswalks, even when facing green signals or arrows. The bill is designed to improve compliance with pedestrian right-of-way laws and enhance overall road safety for all users.
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