Requiring funeral procession lead vehicles to obey yield signs.
Impact
The bill amends New Hampshire's traffic laws, specifically RSA 265:156, to clearly delineate the responsibilities of funeral lead vehicles at intersections. By establishing that these vehicles must yield, the law seeks to prevent potential accidents that may occur due to the spontaneous nature of funeral processions. It is expected that this will contribute to safer road conditions not only for the participants but also for other road users.
Summary
SB598 is legislation that mandates funeral procession lead vehicles to comply with yield signs before proceeding at intersections. Under the revised law, once a funeral lead vehicle has either stopped and followed a signal or yielded as required, all other vehicles in the funeral procession are permitted to proceed through intersections without stopping. This change aims to enhance safety during funeral processions while providing legal rights to those participating in such events.
Contention
While there is a general consensus on the need for safety during funeral processions, there may be concerns regarding the practicality of enforcing yield laws in such contexts. Some individuals might argue that requiring lead vehicles to yield could complicate the execution of processions, potentially leading to delays during emotional times. Additionally, the bill's provisions raise discussions on how it balances the need for respect during funerals with the responsibilities imposed on drivers.
Fiscal_note
The fiscal impact of SB598 is currently indeterminate; however, there are implications for state, county, and local revenue and expenditures associated with the enforcement of this law. Potential costs could arise from accidents that may occur without adherence to this new requirement, or from the judicial processes related to violations of this law.
In general provisions relating to operation of vehicles, further providing for obedience to authorized persons directing traffic and providing for drivers in organized motorcycle processions; and, in rules of the road in general, further providing for following too closely.
In general provisions relating to operation of vehicles, further providing for obedience to authorized persons directing traffic and providing for drivers in organized motorcycle processions; and, in rules of the road in general, further providing for following too closely.