This bill amends the Code of West Virginia to include a new section defining "on-track equipment" and clarifying existing provisions regarding vehicle operator responsibilities at railroad crossings. The newly inserted section 17C-1-72 defines "on-track equipment" as any tender, motor unit, freight or passenger car, or other equipment used on railroad tracks, including maintenance equipment for the rail system.

Additionally, the bill modifies section 17C-12-1, which outlines the requirements for drivers approaching railroad grade crossings. It changes the language to specify that drivers must stop within 50 feet but not less than 15 feet from the nearest rail and may not proceed until it is safe to do so. The bill expands the circumstances under which a driver must stop to include not only trains but also other on-track equipment. It also updates the penalties for non-compliance, allowing for the possibility of additional points on a driver's license record for violations, while providing an exception for instances when signal devices are malfunctioning.

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