Washington State House of Representatives Office of Program Research | BILL ANALYSIS |
Transportation Committee |
SB 5180
This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent. |
Brief Description: Permitting public transit vehicle stops at unmarked stop zones under certain circumstances.
Sponsors: Senators Haugen and Parlette.
Brief Summary of Bill |
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Hearing Date: 3/16/09
Staff: David Munnecke (786-7315)
Background:
It is a traffic infraction to stop, park, or leave standing any vehicle upon the roadway in an unincorporated area, whether attended or not. However, exceptions to this law are specified for the following: (1) the driver of any vehicle that is disabled such that it is impossible to avoid stopping and temporarily leaving the vehicle; (2) the driver of a public transit vehicle who temporarily stops the vehicle in order to receive and discharge passengers at a marked transit vehicle stop zone; and (3) the driver of a solid waste collection company who temporarily stops the vehicle as far to the right as practical in order to collect solid waste or recyclables.
Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) rules allow the Secretary to approve unincorporated area public transit vehicle stop zones that are not wholly off the roadway if there is adequate sight distance and a suitable site off the roadway cannot be found. Such sites must have a vehicle stop sign installed by the transit authority as well as an advance warning sign installed by the WSDOT, if the WSDOT determines it appropriate.
Summary of Bill:
Public transportation service providers, including certain nonprofit organizations, may allow the driver of a transit vehicle to stop upon a roadway in an unincorporated area momentarily to receive or discharge passengers at an unmarked stop zone. However, the driver must: (1) stop the vehicle as far to the right side of the roadway as is practicable so as to not significantly impede traffic; (2) activate four-way flashing lights; and (3) stop at a portion of the highway with an unobstructed view for drivers approaching from behind the transit vehicle.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Not requested.
Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of the session in which the bill is passed.