Assembly Bill 409 aims to expand the existing "move over or slow down" law in Wisconsin, which currently requires drivers to take precautions when approaching authorized emergency or roadside service vehicles that are stopped on or near a roadway. The bill introduces a new definition for "disabled vehicle," which includes any motor vehicle that is stopped and displaying warning lights, has emergency flares or warning devices nearby, or has visible individuals attending to it. This change mandates that drivers must also move over or slow down when approaching these disabled vehicles, in addition to the existing requirements for emergency and roadside service vehicles.

The bill includes several amendments to the current statutes, such as renumbering sections and updating definitions. Specifically, it amends the title of the relevant statute to reflect the inclusion of disabled vehicles and modifies the language to ensure that the same rules apply to both emergency vehicles and disabled vehicles. The bill emphasizes the importance of safety on the road by requiring drivers to exercise caution and adjust their driving behavior when encountering these vehicles, thereby enhancing protection for individuals who may be in vulnerable situations on the roadside.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 346.072(title), 346.072, 346.072(1g)(intro.), 346.072(1m)
Text as Enrolled: 346.072(title), 346.072, 346.072(1g)(intro.), 346.072(1m)