FINAL BILL REPORT

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.

Background: Under current law, it is generally 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 rule 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.

Current Department of Transportation 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.

Summary: 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 in a safe and practicable position; (2) activate four-way flashing lights; and (3) stop at a portion of the highway with an unobstructed view for other drivers.

Votes on Final Passage:

Senate	45	0
House	97	1	(House amended)
Senate	45	1	(Senate concurred)