SNOWPLOW DISTANCE S.B. 465 (S-1):
SUMMARY OF BILL
REPORTED FROM COMMITTEE
Senate Bill 465 (Substitute S-1 as reported)
Committee: Transportation and Infrastructure
CONTENT
The bill would amend the Michigan Vehicle Code to prescribe the distances, dependent on speed, that the operator of a vehicle would have to maintain from a snowplow. It also would prescribe a civil infraction for a violation of the distances.
Specifically, the operator of a vehicle could not follow a snowplow more closely than the following distances, as applicable:
-- On a street or highway with a speed limit of more than 35 miles per hour, 200 feet.
-- On a street or highway with a speed limit of 35 miles per hour or less, 75 feet.
These requirements would not apply when the operator of a vehicle was legally overtaking or passing a snowplow.
If a snowplow had stopped at or in an intersection and the operator of a vehicle that was not a snowplow approached it from the rear, the operator of the vehicle would have to stop at least 20 feet from the snowplow and remain stopped until the snowplow resumed motion and vacated the intersection
BRIEF RATIONALE
According to testimony before the Senate Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, worsening winter conditions have led to an increase in the number of traffic accidents between snow plows and personal vehicles. These accidents result from a variety of factors, including poor visibility and icy roads, which may make it difficult for a driver to break in time to avoid a collision. Accordingly, some have suggested that a driver be required to maintain a certain distance from an active snowplow.
Legislative Analyst: Abby Schneider
FISCAL IMPACT
Due to the fine for the civil infraction, the bill would potentially increase revenue for the State and local governmental units.
Date Completed: 11-8-23 Fiscal Analyst: Bobby Canell
This analysis was prepared by nonpartisan Senate staff for use by the Senate in its deliberations and does not constitute an official statement of legislative intent.