New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Assembly Bill A00171

Introduced
1/8/25  
Refer
1/8/25  

Caption

Authorizes drivers to disobey a traffic-control device or signal, after exercising reasonable care, in order to yield the right of way to an authorized emergency vehicle.

Summary

Bill A00171 amends the vehicle and traffic law in New York to authorize drivers to disobey traffic-control devices or signals when yielding the right of way to authorized emergency vehicles, provided they exercise reasonable care. The bill aims to clarify and enhance the legal framework surrounding the actions drivers may take in emergency situations, ensuring that emergency vehicles can navigate traffic more effectively during critical moments.

Impact

If enacted, this bill will modify existing traffic laws to explicitly allow drivers to disregard certain traffic signals under specific circumstances. This change could lead to a reduction in traffic violations related to yielding to emergency vehicles and may also necessitate updates to municipal traffic monitoring programs to accommodate the new provisions regarding the review of violations.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding Bill A00171 appears to be generally supportive, particularly among those advocating for improved emergency response times. However, there may be concerns regarding the potential for misuse of the provisions allowing drivers to disobey traffic signals, which could lead to increased accidents if not properly regulated.

Contention

Notable points of contention include concerns from traffic safety advocates who fear that allowing drivers to disobey signals could lead to confusion and accidents. Additionally, there may be differing opinions among lawmakers regarding the balance between facilitating emergency vehicle access and maintaining overall traffic safety.

Companion Bills

NY S02569

Same As Authorizes drivers to disobey a traffic-control device or signal, after exercising reasonable care, in order to yield the right of way to an authorized emergency vehicle.

Previously Filed As

NY A00232

Authorizes drivers to disobey a traffic-control device or signal, after exercising reasonable care, in order to yield the right of way to an authorized emergency vehicle.

NY S01377

Authorizes drivers to disobey a traffic-control device or signal, after exercising reasonable care, in order to yield the right of way to an authorized emergency vehicle.

NY S02569

Authorizes drivers to disobey a traffic-control device or signal, after exercising reasonable care, in order to yield the right of way to an authorized emergency vehicle.

NY S0705

Disobedience of any official traffic-control device

NY SB372

To Amend The Law Concerning The Signal Legend Of Traffic Control Devices; And To Allow A Vehicle Driver To Enter An Intersection While A Red Light Is Indicated On A Traffic Control Device In Certain Circumstances.

NY HB918

In general provisions, further providing for definitions; in general provisions relating to operation of vehicles, further providing for traffic-control signals and for pedestrian-control signals; in special vehicles and pedestrians, further providing for right-of-way of pedestrians in crosswalks; and imposing penalties.

NY HB723

Authorizes drivers of certain two-wheeled vehicles to proceed through a red light under certain circumstances

NY HB1161

Motor vehicles; proper operation upon approach by an authorized emergency vehicle or by a law enforcement vehicle for purposes of a traffic stop; provide

NY HB661

Traffic reg.; bicycles, electric personal assistive mobility devices, etc., yielding at stop signs.

NY HB812

Traffic regulation; bicycles, and certain other devices, bicycle signals.

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