Washington State House of Representatives Office of Program Research | BILL ANALYSIS |
Transportation Committee |
SB 5050
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: Authorizing registered tow truck operators to carry passengers in a vehicle attached to a flatbed tow truck under certain situations.
Sponsors: Senators Sheldon, King, Ericksen and Litzow.
Brief Summary of Bill |
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Hearing Date: 3/14/13
Staff: Andrew Russell (786-7143).
Background:
A tow truck is a motor vehicle that is equipped for towing other vehicles. By rule, the Washington State Patrol classifies tow trucks into several categories. "Class E" tow trucks include those that carry the transported vehicle entirely on the truck, such as a flatbed truck. Under current law, when a vehicle is being transported on a flatbed tow truck, passengers may not ride in the vehicle being transported.
Washington law also imposes seat belt requirements. In most circumstances, these requirements dictate that every person riding in a motor vehicle wear a safety belt and that children be adequately secured. The failure to wear a seat belt and the failure of a driver to ensure every person under the age of 16 is wearing a seat belt are traffic infractions.
Summary of Bill:
If the number of people needing to be transported exceeds the seating capacity of the tow truck, passengers may sit in a vehicle being carried on the deck of a flatbed tow truck. These passengers are still subject to the seat belt and child restraint requirements.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Available.
Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of the session in which the bill is passed.