New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Assembly Bill A08978

Introduced
8/13/25  

Caption

Directs the commissioner of motor vehicles to make failure to move over a five point violation.

Impact

The enactment of A08978 would significantly impact New York's vehicle and traffic laws by imposing stricter penalties for non-compliance. By categorizing the failure to move over as a serious violation, the bill aims to deter reckless driving behavior in scenarios involving emergency vehicles. This shift in legal framework not only highlights the importance of road safety but also reflects a broader commitment to protect first responders who often operate in hazardous conditions while serving the public.

Summary

Bill A08978 aims to amend the current traffic laws in New York by designating the failure to move over for parked, stopped, or standing authorized emergency vehicles as a five-point violation. This statute specifically targets actions that endanger emergency responders who are conducting their duties on the road. The bill is framed to enhance public safety by mandating drivers to yield appropriately when approaching stationary emergency vehicles, thus reducing the risk of accidents and injuries to both personnel and civilians alike.

Contention

While A08978 is primarily geared towards enhancing safety, its implementation may raise debates regarding the appropriateness of such penalties and their effectiveness in changing driver behavior. Critics may argue that five-point violations could disproportionately affect certain drivers, suggesting that educational campaigns might be a more appropriate response rather than imposing severe penalties. Discussions around the bill may also surround its enforcement and whether law enforcement agencies have adequate resources and training to identify and act on these violations effectively.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

NY S04620

Establishes the failure to pass act restricting driving in a passing lane without overtaking or passing a vehicle and sets penalties for violations.

NY S01360

Authorizes the commissioner of motor vehicles to impose higher civil penalties upon motor carriers who fail to report to the commissioner of motor vehicles certain disqualifying violations by bus drivers employed by such carrier.

NY S09883

Increases penalties for traffic violations related to the failure to properly operate a motor vehicle when approaching a parked, stopped or standing authorized emergency vehicle, hazard vehicle, vehicle displaying a blue or green light or certain other motor vehicles; increases penalties for multiple violations.

NY A08190

Directs the commissioner of motor vehicles to conduct a study to examine and update the requirements of safety inspections conducted to ensure the operational safety of all motor vehicles; requires a report; makes related provisions.

NY S09436

Directs the commissioner of motor vehicles to conduct a study to examine and update the requirements of safety inspections conducted to ensure the operational safety of all motor vehicles; requires a report; makes related provisions.

NY A01604

Relates to owner liability for failure of operator to move over when approaching a police, fire, or emergency vehicle.

NY A07943

Directs the commissioner of motor vehicles to establish a mandatory bicycle with electric assist and electric scooter training course; directs the commissioner of motor vehicles to establish an optional bicycle training course.

NY A02763

Doubles the penalties for use of mobile telephones and use of portable electronic devices when such violations arise out of the same incident as a conviction for failure to move over and when such violations occurred in a work zone.

NY A03186

Directs the commissioner of motor vehicles to conduct a study on the distribution of traffic fines and to issue a report on the matter.

NY A02649

Directs the commissioner of motor vehicles to provide certain services on Fishers Island for a limited period of time.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.