Traffic control: traffic regulation; filtering between lanes by a motorcycle; allow under certain conditions. Amends sec. 660 of 1949 PA 300 (MCL 257.660).
Impact
The proposed changes in SB 365 are expected to clarify and enhance road safety by setting clear guidelines for the operation of electric personal assistive mobility devices, low-speed vehicles, and other similar types of transport. It introduces specific regulations around lane usage and interaction with traffic, calling for due care to be exercised when navigating roadway situations. Additionally, it affirms local authority to impose regulations tailored to their community's health, safety, and welfare, which may vary from one jurisdiction to another.
Summary
Senate Bill 365 amends the Michigan vehicle code (1949 PA 300), specifically section 660, to address the use and operation of electric personal assistive mobility devices, low-speed vehicles, electric skateboards, and mopeds on roadways. The bill establishes that individuals must ride as near to the right side of the roadway as practicable, ensuring that traffic movement is not obstructed. Moreover, it underscores that motorcycles are entitled to full lane usage, prohibiting motor vehicles from depriving motorcycles of this right. This amendment aims to enhance safety for various types of road users.
Contention
There are potential points of contention surrounding SB 365, particularly regarding the regulation of electric personal assistive mobility devices and electric skateboards. While proponents argue the need for safety regulations as the use of these devices rises, there might be concerns over the impact of local ordinances that could limit usage in public areas or create confusion among users. The allocation of spaces for these devices in relation to other vehicles, specifically motorcycles and motor vehicles, may also lead to debates around road usage rights and safety measures in various communities.
Traffic control: traffic regulation; requirement to drive in the right-hand lane of a roadway with 2 lanes for travel in 1 direction; modify. Amends sec. 634 of 1949 PA 300 (MCL 257.634).
Traffic control: speed restrictions; use of automated traffic enforcement devices in work zones to enforce speed limit reductions; allow. Amends secs. 79d, 907 & 909 of 1949 PA 300 (MCL 257.79d et seq.) & adds secs. 2c, 627c & 907a. TIE BAR WITH: HB 4133'23
Traffic control: violations; penalties for operating a vehicle while sending or receiving a message on an electronic wireless device; enhance. Amends secs. 320a, 602b, 602c & 732 of 1949 PA 300 (MCL 257.320a et seq.).
Traffic control: traffic regulation; seasonal weight restrictions; revise exemption for tow truck, wrecker, or road service vehicles under certain circumstances. Amends sec. 722 of 1949 PA 300 (MCL 257.722).
Traffic control: violations; definition for “transportation device"; add. Amends 1949 PA 300 (MCL 257.1 - 257.923) by adding sec. 79h. TIE BAR WITH: SB 0617'23, SB 0618'23, HB 5224'23