Bill > S04649

This bill amends the New York vehicle and traffic law to establish escalating penalties for violations of section 1144-a, which relates to failing to exercise due care and move over when approaching parked, stopped, or standing motor vehicles on the shoulder of a highway. Specifically, the bill introduces graduated fines and potential imprisonment for repeat offenders within an 18-month period: for a first conviction, the penalty can be up to $275 or 15 days in jail (or both); for a second conviction within 18 months, the fine increases to up to $450 or 45 days in jail (or both); and for a third or subsequent violation within 18 months, the penalty can reach up to $750 or 90 days in jail (or both). The law is designed to enhance driver safety by creating more significant consequences for drivers who do not properly slow down or move over when passing emergency or service vehicles on highway shoulders. The bill will take effect on January 1, 2026, and will apply to violations committed on or after that date, giving drivers and law enforcement time to become aware of the new penalties.

Housing and Urban Affairs, Transportation and Infrastructure

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S4649