New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Senate Bill S02569

Introduced
1/21/25  

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 S02569 amends New York's vehicle and traffic law to allow operators of motor vehicles to disobey traffic-control devices or signals when yielding the right of way to authorized emergency vehicles, provided they exercise reasonable care. The bill modifies existing sections of the law to clarify the circumstances under which such disobedience is permissible, particularly emphasizing the need for drivers to ensure safety before proceeding. Additionally, it mandates municipalities that utilize traffic-control signal photo violation monitoring devices to implement a review process for violations that occur under these circumstances, ensuring that drivers who yield to emergency vehicles are not penalized.

Impact

The bill impacts state traffic laws by explicitly allowing drivers to disregard certain traffic signals when yielding to emergency vehicles, thereby potentially reducing the number of traffic violations issued in such scenarios. It also introduces a requirement for municipalities to establish review processes for violations captured by monitoring devices, which could lead to changes in how traffic enforcement is conducted and how violations are adjudicated. This could enhance the protection of drivers acting in good faith to yield to emergency vehicles.

Sentiment

The sentiment around Bill S02569 appears to be generally supportive, as it addresses public safety concerns regarding emergency vehicle access. However, there may be some apprehension regarding the implications of allowing drivers to disobey traffic signals, as it could lead to confusion or misuse. The lack of recorded votes or committee discussions suggests that the bill has not yet faced significant opposition or debate in the legislative process.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise regarding the definition of 'reasonable care' and how it will be interpreted in practice. Concerns may also exist about the potential for increased accidents or misunderstandings at intersections where drivers are permitted to disobey signals. Stakeholders, including law enforcement and traffic safety advocates, may hold differing views on the balance between facilitating emergency vehicle access and maintaining overall traffic safety.

Companion Bills

NY A00171

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 A00171

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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