Texas 2011 - 82nd Regular

Texas House Bill HB42

Filed
 
Introduced
11/8/10  
Out of House Committee
3/7/11  
Voted on by House
4/8/11  
Refer
2/9/11  
Out of Senate Committee
5/19/11  
Report Pass
3/2/11  
Voted on by Senate
5/25/11  
Engrossed
4/8/11  
Governor Action
6/17/11  
Refer
4/20/11  
Bill Becomes Law
 
Report Pass
5/19/11  
Enrolled
5/27/11  
Enrolled
5/27/11  
Passed
6/17/11  

Caption

Relating to the duty imposed on the operator of a motor vehicle that strikes a structure adjacent to a highway.

Impact

The enactment of HB42 is expected to enhance road safety by creating a clearer framework for accountability in cases of property damage due to vehicle strikes. By specifying the required actions of vehicle operators, the bill aims to reduce instances where property owners may be left uninformed about damages. This change is important not only for the property owners but also for ensuring compliance with legal obligations by vehicle operators, thus fostering a culture of responsibility on the roads.

Summary

House Bill 42 aims to address the responsibilities of motor vehicle operators who are involved in accidents that result only in damage to structures adjacent to highways. The bill amends Section 550.025 of the Transportation Code to clearly delineate the actions drivers must take following such incidents. Specifically, it mandates that drivers must make reasonable efforts to notify the property owner or responsible party about the accident, as well as provide their personal identification and vehicle registration details when appropriate. Additionally, the bill emphasizes the necessity to report the incident if required under existing laws.

Contention

While the bill appears straightforward in its intentions, there might be some points of contention regarding its implementation and the definition of 'reasonable steps' when locating a property owner. Stakeholders might debate what constitutes adequate notification and whether the bill places an undue burden on drivers involved in minor accidents. Moreover, concerns could arise about the potential implications for drivers in scenarios where the property owner cannot be readily located.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX HB421

Relating to the operation of a motor vehicle passing a pedestrian or a person operating a bicycle; creating a criminal offense.

TX HB3155

Relating to the use of a wireless communication device while operating a motor vehicle.

TX SB41

Relating to the use of a wireless communication device while operating a motor vehicle.

TX HB3577

Relating to the issuance of title to a salvage pool operator for certain motor vehicles.

TX HB4464

Relating to the operation of a motor vehicle passing a person operating a bicycle; creating a criminal offense.

TX SB1263

Relating to the issuance of title to a salvage pool operator for certain motor vehicles.

TX HB2739

Relating to the operation of a vehicle or combination of vehicles on a state highway or farm or ranch road at a weight that exceeds the maximum weight authorized for the road; imposing a criminal penalty.

TX SB385

Relating to the impoundment of a vehicle used in the commission of the offense of racing on a highway.

TX HB3274

Relating to human operators of automated motor vehicles.

TX SB2156

Relating to human operators of automated motor vehicles.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.