SENATE BILL REPORT
SB 5564
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. |
As of February 12, 2013
Title: An act relating to vehicles overtaking and passing pedestrians or bicyclists.
Brief Description: Addressing when vehicles overtake and pass pedestrians or bicyclists.
Sponsors: Senators Smith, Billig, Baumgartner, Rolfes, Schlicher, Braun and Harper.
Brief History:
Committee Activity: Transportation: 2/12/13.
SENATE COMMITTEE ON TRANSPORTATION |
Staff: Kim Johnson (786-7472)
Background: Current law requires that vehicles be driven on the right side of the roadway, except under specified circumstances such as when passing another vehicle or when an obstruction exists making it necessary to drive to the left of the center of the highway. Where signs or markings are in place indicating a no passing zone, generally vehicles may not pass; however, there is an exception for vehicles passing around an obstruction in the roadway.
No vehicle may pass on the left side of the roadway unless authorized by statute, provided however, that the left side of the roadway be free of oncoming traffic for a sufficient distance for the overtaking vehicle to pass without interfering with other vehicles or coming within 200 feet of approaching traffic.
The driver of a vehicle approaching a pedestrian or bicycle that is on the roadway, right-hand shoulder, or bicycle lane must pass to the left at a safe distance to clearly avoid coming into contact with the pedestrian or bicyclist and may not return to the right side of the roadway until the driver is safely clear of the pedestrian or bicyclist.
Summary of Bill: A vehicle may drive into the left-hand lane when overtaking and passing a pedestrian or bicyclist so as to maintain a safe distance of at least three feet.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Not requested.
Committee/Commission/Task Force Created: No.
Effective Date: Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.