Pennsylvania 2023-2024 Regular Session

Pennsylvania House Bill HB1346

Introduced
6/7/23  

Caption

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.

Impact

The bill introduces stricter penalties for drivers who engage in careless driving resulting in harm to vulnerable highway users. It specifies fines that range from $500 to $5,000 depending on the severity of the offense. This change aims to deter negligent driving behaviors and provide a clearer legal framework for enforcement against careless driving incidents. It is expected to improve road safety by shifting responsibility back to drivers to exercise greater care when interacting with those who are more at risk.

Summary

House Bill 1346 seeks to amend Title 75 of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, enhancing the definitions and penalties surrounding traffic regulations, particularly focusing on the protection of vulnerable highway users, which include pedestrians, cyclists, and others who may be more susceptible to traffic accidents. The bill aims to improve both driver awareness and road safety by clarifying rules for interaction between motor vehicles and these vulnerable users, thereby fostering a safer driving environment.

Sentiment

Overall, the sentiment surrounding HB 1346 appears to be positive among public safety advocates and transportation safety organizations, as it aims to address the increasing safety concerns for vulnerable populations on the roads. However, there are concerns from some quarters regarding the potential implications for drivers, including fears of overly punitive measures that could impact daily commuting. Nevertheless, support for the protection of vulnerable users is a strong aspect of the public discourse on this bill.

Contention

Discussions around HB 1346 highlight significant contention regarding the balance between enforcing stricter penalties and the reasonable expectations placed on drivers. Some stakeholders argue that while protecting vulnerable road users is essential, the bill may inadvertently lead to excessive penalties for accidental infractions, which some view as an overreach. These concerns indicate a need for careful consideration of how to implement such measures without compromising fairness in how traffic laws are enforced.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

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 SB824

In rules of the road in general, further providing for additional parking regulations; and, in special vehicles and pedestrians, further providing for riding on roadways and pedalcycle paths.

PA HB918

In general provisions, further providing for definitions; in general provisions relating to operation of vehicles, further providing for traffic-control signals and for pedestrian-control signals; in special vehicles and pedestrians, further providing for right-of-way of pedestrians in crosswalks; and imposing penalties.

PA HB1056

In general provisions, further providing for definitions; in general provisions relating to operation of vehicles, further providing for traffic-control signals and for pedestrian-control signals; in special vehicles and pedestrians, further providing for right-of-way of pedestrians in crosswalks; and imposing penalties.

PA HB880

In general provisions, further providing for definitions; in financial responsibility, providing for utility terrain vehicles; in special vehicles and pedestrians, providing for operation of utility terrain vehicles; in miscellaneous provisions, further providing for off-road vehicles in urban municipalities; and imposing penalties.

PA SB897

In licensing of drivers, further providing for schedule of convictions and points; in rules of the road in general, further providing for meeting or overtaking school bus; and imposing penalties.

PA SB65

In licensing of drivers, further providing for schedule of convictions and points; in rules of the road in general, further providing for meeting or overtaking school bus; and imposing penalties.

PA HB1708

In licensing of drivers, further providing for schedule of convictions and points; in rules of the road in general, further providing for meeting or overtaking school bus; in other required equipment, further providing for general requirements for other vehicles transporting school children; and making editorial changes.

PA SB37

In general provisions, further providing for definitions; in licensing of drivers, further providing for learners' permits and for examination of applicant for driver's license; in rules of the road in general, further providing for prohibiting text-based communications and providing for prohibiting use of interactive mobile device; in miscellaneous provisions relating to serious traffic offenses, further providing for the offense of homicide by vehicle and for the offense of aggravated assault by vehicle; in enforcement, providing for data collection and reporting relating to traffic stops; and imposing penalties.

PA SB998

In rules of the road in general, further providing for racing on highways; in enforcement, further providing for disposition of impounded vehicles, combinations and loads; in penalties and disposition of fines, further providing for subsequent convictions of certain offenses; imposing penalties; and making editorial changes.

Similar Bills

CA AB2147

Pedestrians.

CA AB1238

Pedestrian access.

HI SB106

Relating To Pedestrians.

CA AB550

Vehicles: Speed Safety System Pilot Program.

CA AB2919

Pedestrian safety.

CA AB390

Pedestrian crossing signals.

CA SB671

Pedestrian crossing signals.

CA AB2264

Pedestrian crossing signals.