This bill aims to amend the Code of West Virginia by defining the term "on-track equipment" and clarifying the rules regarding vehicle operators' obedience to signals indicating the approach of trains. The new section 17C-1-72 defines "on-track equipment" to include any tender, motor unit, freight or passenger car, and maintenance equipment used on railroad tracks. This addition is intended to enhance safety and awareness regarding various types of equipment that may be present on the tracks.

In Article 12, the bill modifies existing language in section 17C-12-1 concerning the requirements for drivers approaching railroad grade crossings. It specifies that drivers must stop within 50 feet but not less than 15 feet from the nearest rail when a signal indicates the approach of a train or other on-track equipment. The bill also changes the language regarding penalties for non-compliance, allowing for the possibility of fines and points against a driver's license record, while noting that these penalties may not apply if the signal device is malfunctioning.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 17C-12-1, 17C-1-72