Several new traffic laws were implemented after the 83rd legislative session ended and went into effect on September 1st, but law enforcement officers continue to see violations of the new laws.
According to Early Chief of Police David Mercer, many citizens remain unaware of new changes to several laws which could be costly to offenders.
One in particular, Chapter 545.066 in the transportation code, deals with vehicles passing a school bus when red lights are activated and loading or unloading children.
“This is not a new law but the fines have risen significantly to a minimum of $500. Many may not realize that this law means both directions must stop,” explained Mercer. “The opposite direction is only exempt if the highway is divided by a physical barrier such as a concrete divider or grass median. A left turn lane (center turn lane) does not constitute a divided highway which is where many people fail to stop, causing them to get stopped by officers.”
He stated that many are aware of the law regarding use of cell phones in a school zones on highways; however, the legislature has now added school property to be included. For example, anyone dropping off or picking students and leave the roadway onto school property can still receive a ticket on the school property. This was implemented to protect the children on the campus itself due to many drivers texting or calling thinking they were on private property, according to Mercer.
Another change in traffic laws is found in Chapter 545.424, which outlines a few stipulations to minor drivers. This law states (1) that no driver under the age of 18 can operate a cell phone while operating a motor vehicle, (2) no driver under the age of 18 can operate a vehicle after midnight and before 5am unless the operation is necessary for employment of a school related event and (3) no driver under the age of 18 can operate a vehicle with more than one passenger in the vehicle under the age of 21 who is not a family member.
Mercer stated that these are just of few of the new laws in effect that law enforcement officers continue to see violated.
“We want everyone to be aware of the laws which are to provide for better driving conditions for everyone,” said Mercer. “If you have questions about the laws you can always ask any officer you see or look them up on the internet, just make sure you view the current laws from the 83rd legislature because laws change every 2 years.”