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Committee passes SB 8 requiring drivers to move over or exercise caution near stopped vehicles; $75 infraction set
Summary
The Committee on Transportation voted to pass Senate Bill 8, which requires motorists to change lanes away from stationary vehicles displaying hazard signals when safe, or else proceed at reduced speed; the bill creates a $75 traffic infraction and is drafted to take effect July 1, 2025.
The Committee on Transportation voted to pass Senate Bill 8 after a brief discussion and placed it on the consent calendar.
The bill requires a driver who approaches a stationary vehicle displaying hazard lights, road flares or other caution devices on a highway with at least two lanes in the same direction to change lanes away from that stationary vehicle when it is safe to do so, taking into account road, weather and traffic conditions. If the highway does not have an additional lane or a lane change would be unsafe, the driver must instead proceed with due caution and reduced speed given the conditions.
Committee staff said the measure creates a new traffic infraction with a $75 fine under the uniform fine schedule. The provision is written to take effect on July 1, 2025.
Representative Vesak moved to pass SB 8 favorably and place it on the consent calendar; Representative Helgerson seconded the motion. Representative Minnix raised a practical concern about extreme weather and low visibility, asking whether a driver who pulls over because “visibility was less than couple hundred feet” could be ticketed if another vehicle later struck the stopped vehicle. Committee discussion noted the bill’s language includes allowance for road, weather and traffic conditions and that enforcement would involve officer discretion.
Chairman called for voice vote: “All those in favor… signify by saying aye.” The Committee responded “Aye,” and the chair announced the motion carried.
Ending: The Committee adjourned after the vote and the chair reminded members of a longer hearing the following day with additional license‑plate bills and substantial amendments to SB 97.
