Bill > SB273

This bill, named "Sherrill's Law", updates the existing New Hampshire law regarding motorist responsibilities during highway emergencies by expanding the definition of what constitutes an emergency situation. Specifically, the bill adds "stopped or standing vehicles" to the list of scenarios where drivers must exercise caution, requiring them to maintain a reduced speed and, when practical, give a wide berth to such vehicles without endangering oncoming traffic. The expanded definition now includes vehicles displaying warning signals such as hazard lights, road flares, traffic cones, caution signs, or other warning indicators. Drivers are still required to obey traffic directions, emergency signals, and traffic control devices, and must vacate blocked lanes as soon as possible. The bill removes a redundant subsection about giving wide berth and consolidates the language into a more comprehensive instruction. The law will take effect 60 days after its passage, and while the fiscal note indicates no direct revenue impact, it acknowledges potential indeterminable expenditures related to potential changes in judicial and correctional system interactions.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://gc.nh.gov/bill_status/legacy/bs2016/bill_status.aspx?lsr=0314&sy=2025&sortoption=&txtsessionyear=2025&txtbillnumber=SB273