Bill > HB5230

This bill amends the Michigan Vehicle Code to establish new regulations for animal-drawn vehicles operating on public roadways, requiring them to be equipped with specific lighting devices for increased safety. The bill defines an "animal-drawn vehicle" as any coach, carriage, or buggy drawn by an animal, and mandates that such vehicles must have at least two front white lights, two rear red lights, and two amber warning lights on both the front and rear, visible within 500 feet. These lights must be mounted between 2.5 and 12 feet above the ground and symmetrically spaced around the vehicle's centerline. The lighting requirements are expanded beyond traditional sunset-to-sunrise times to include conditions of low visibility, heavy traffic, work zones, and insufficient light. Drivers of animal-drawn vehicles who fail to comply with these lighting requirements can be issued a civil infraction and potentially fined up to $200. The bill specifically exempts animal-drawn vehicles operating on state park lands where motor vehicles are not generally permitted. These new provisions aim to improve the visibility and safety of horse-drawn vehicles sharing public roadways with motorized traffic.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://legislature.mi.gov/Bills/Bill?ObjectName=2025-HB-5230