Connecticut House Bill HB05934

Connecticut 2019 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/23/19
• Refer: 1/23/19

Caption

An Act Concerning Pedestrian Safety At Crosswalks.

Impact

The enactment of HB 05934 would substantially modify the current statutes pertaining to pedestrian rights and responsibilities within the jurisdiction. By placing a greater emphasis on driver responsibility for yielding to pedestrians, the bill seeks to create a safer environment for individuals crossing roadways, particularly in densely populated areas where foot traffic is common. This could also pave the way for more explicit public safety campaigns to educate drivers and pedestrians alike about the new rules and the importance of pedestrian safety.

Summary

House Bill 05934, titled 'An Act Concerning Pedestrian Safety At Crosswalks', aims to enhance the safety of pedestrians at crosswalks by amending existing traffic laws. The primary change proposed by the bill is to require motor vehicle operators to grant the right-of-way to pedestrians who step to the curb, rather than adhering to the previous requirement that pedestrians step off of the curb to assert their right-of-way. This shift is intended to provide greater protection to pedestrians as they approach crosswalks, reducing the risk of accidents involving vehicles and foot traffic.

Contention

Notably, discussions around HB 05934 may highlight potential points of contention regarding the enforcement of the new right-of-way rules. Critics may raise concerns about how effectively these changes can be enforced, and whether they will lead to confusion among both drivers and pedestrians. Proponents argue that the change could help to decrease pedestrian injuries and fatalities, while opponents may worry about unintended consequences, such as increased traffic delays for vehicles.