FINAL BILL REPORT

                  HB 1321

                         C 200 L 99

                     Synopsis as Enacted

Brief Description:  Requiring stops at intersections with nonfunctioning signal lights.

Sponsors:  Representatives Ericksen, Fisher, K. Schmidt, Mitchell, Rockefeller, Carrell and McDonald; by request of Department of Transportation and Washington State Patrol.

House Committee on Transportation

Senate Committee on Transportation

Background:

The basic right of way rule for a vehicle approaching an intersection is that when two vehicles from different roads approach an unmarked intersection at the same time, the vehicle on the left yields to the vehicle on the right.  The right of way rule for a vehicle turning left is that the vehicle intending to turn left must yield to the vehicle approaching from the opposite direction.  It is not clear who has the right of way when proceeding through an intersection with a traffic control device that is not functioning.

Summary:

An intersection with a nonfunctioning traffic light is treated as an all-way stop.  Except when directed to proceed by a flagger, police officer or firefighter, a driver of a vehicle approaching an intersection whose traffic signal is not functioning must stop and yield the right of way in compliance with the basic right of way rule for: (1) a vehicle approaching an intersection, and (2) a vehicle turning left at an intersection.

Votes on Final Passage:

House8810

Senate490

Effective:July 25, 1999