Revise provisions regarding the right-of-way of vehicles at an intersection.
Impact
The impact of SB129 is significant as it seeks to enhance road safety by explicitly defining the right-of-way rules, potentially reducing accidents at intersections caused by misunderstanding of existing laws. This revision acknowledges the critical role that clear traffic laws play in ensuring safety on the roads, especially in urban and densely populated areas where traffic congestion may lead to more frequent interactions at intersections.
Summary
Senate Bill 129, introduced in the 97th Legislative Session of South Dakota, revises provisions that govern the right-of-way for vehicles at intersections. The primary aim of the bill is to clarify the rules concerning which vehicle has the right-of-way when two vehicles approach or enter an intersection simultaneously. Under the amended provisions, a vehicle on the left must yield to a vehicle on the right unless specified otherwise. The bill also emphasizes that a driver traveling at an unlawful speed forfeits any right-of-way they might otherwise possess.
Contention
Notable points of contention during discussions around SB129 could arise from concerns about the implications for drivers who may not be aware of these rules, particularly new drivers or those unfamiliar with South Dakota’s traffic laws. Additionally, there could be debates over how effectively the law can be enforced, particularly regarding speed violations leading to the forfeiture of right-of-way, and whether such measures would sufficiently deter unsafe driving behaviors.
Voting_history
The bill was deferred for further discussion, as indicated by a vote summary showing unanimous support in the Senate with 7 yeas and 0 nays on February 9, 2022. This suggests that the bill might face little opposition in its objective to clarify and improve the safety regulations at intersections.