Vermont 2023-2024 Regular Session

Vermont House Bill H0685

Introduced
1/9/24  

Caption

An act relating to pedestrians and pedestrian safety and bicycle and pedestrian facilities

Impact

Notably, H0685 proposes the introduction of crossing flags at legal crosswalks, allowing municipalities greater flexibility in managing pedestrian safety. The crossing flags are to be equipped with clear instructions and must adhere to specific guidelines regarding their implementation. This provision signifies a shift in how local authorities can enhance pedestrian visibility and safety at crosswalks, potentially leading to improved adherence by motorists to traffic laws in these areas.

Summary

House Bill H0685 aims to enhance pedestrian and bicycle safety by updating regulations regarding vulnerable users and traffic-control signals. One of the central components of the bill is the modification of the definition of 'pedestrian' to encompass individuals using wheelchairs or other personal mobility devices, thus broadening the scope of protections enacted for these vulnerable groups. Furthermore, the bill mandates that vehicles maintain an increased clearance of at least four feet when passing vulnerable users, a measure intended to reduce accidents and fatalities involving pedestrians and cyclists.

Contention

The proposed amendments to existing laws have generated discussions regarding their potential implications. Proponents argue that the bill is a necessary step for enhancing safety in urban settings, particularly in areas with heavy foot and bike traffic. However, concerns have been raised about the practical aspects of implementing new regulations and whether financial resources will be sufficient to support municipalities in their transition to these new standards. This friction points to a need for further dialogue about balancing effective pedestrian safety measures with potential financial burdens on local governments.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

VT H0752

An act relating to pedestrians, pedestrian safety, and motor vehicle safety

VT AB2147

Pedestrians.

VT AB2744

Vehicles: pedestrian, bicycle, and vehicle safety.

VT HB513

Provides relative to bicycle and pedestrian traffic on roadways

VT AB2674

Toll bridges: pedestrians and bicycles.

VT SB106

Relating To Pedestrians.

VT S0210

An act relating to motor vehicle and pedestrian safety

VT SB2630

Relating To Pedestrians.

VT HB3668

Pedestrian safety; Oklahoma Pedestrian Safety Act of 2022; effective date.

VT SB01375

An Act Concerning Highway, Pedestrian And Cyclist Safety.

Similar Bills

PA HB1504

In general provisions, further providing for definitions; in licensing of drivers, further providing for suspension of operating privilege; in rules of the road in general, further providing for overtaking vehicle on the left and providing for vehicles passing pedestrians on a highway; in special vehicles and pedestrians, further providing for penalty for violation of subchapter; and, in miscellaneous provisions relating to offenses in general, further providing for the offense of careless driving.

PA HB1346

In general provisions, further providing for definitions; in licensing of drivers, further providing for suspension of operating privilege; in rules of the road in general, further providing for overtaking vehicle on the left and providing for vehicles passing pedestrians on a highway; in special vehicles and pedestrians, further providing for penalty for violation of subchapter; and, in miscellaneous provisions, further providing for the offense of careless driving.

VT H0752

An act relating to pedestrians, pedestrian safety, and motor vehicle safety

MD SB593

Transportation - Maryland Transportation Authority - Pedestrian and Bicycle Safety and Accessibility

MD HB135

Transportation - Maryland Transportation Authority - Pedestrian and Bicycle Safety and Accessibility

NJ A3497

Enhances penalties for drivers without motor vehicle insurance involved in accident with pedestrian; requires public awareness campaign concerning importance of this insurance.

AL SB283

Motor vehicles and traffic; first responders operating upon roadways, distinguished from pedestrians

AL HB241

Motor vehicles and traffic; first responders operating upon roadways, distinguished from pedestrians