Texas House Bill HB885

Texas 2011 - 82nd Regular

• Introduced: 1/25/11
• Out of House Committee: 3/21/11
• Voted on by House: 3/31/11
• Refer: 2/24/11
• Out of Senate Committee: 5/9/11
• Report Pass: 3/16/11
• Voted on by Senate: 5/17/11
• Engrossed: 3/31/11
• Governor Action: 6/17/11
• Refer: 4/13/11
• Report Pass: 5/9/11
• Enrolled: 5/18/11
• Passed: 6/17/11

Caption

Relating to the operation and movement of a vehicle when certain traffic-control signals do not display an indication.

Impact

This legislation impacts state laws by providing clearer guidance on how to handle traffic-control signals that fail to operate correctly. Previously, when faced with such a situation, drivers may have been uncertain about whether to proceed with caution or stop completely. By requiring a stop, the bill aims to minimize confusion and improve safety at intersections where the signals are inoperative. This change can help reduce the risk of accidents that might occur due to varied responses from drivers in the absence of signal indications.

Summary

House Bill 885 amends the Texas Transportation Code, specifically Section 544.007, to address how vehicles should operate at traffic-control signals that do not display any indications. The bill mandates that when a vehicle faces a non-functioning signal, it must stop as if there is a stop sign present. This addition is significant as it clarifies the expected behavior of drivers in such situations, aiming to enhance road safety by establishing a consistent protocol for navigating unclear traffic signals.

Contention

While HB 885 seeks to create a standardized response to malfunctioning traffic signals, it may have drawn some debate concerning its implications for drivers and enforcement agencies. Proponents argue that the bill enhances public safety and clarity, especially in urban areas with complex intersections. Critics could potentially argue that unforeseen circumstances—like the need for immediate emergency vehicle passage—might warrant exceptions to the stop requirement, prompting discussions about the practicality and enforceability of the legislation.