REQUIREMENTS
House Bill 5065
Sponsor: Rep. Andrew Richner
Committee: Transportation
Complete to 11-3-99
A SUMMARY OF HOUSE BILL 5065 AS INTRODUCED 10-27-99
House Bill 5065 would amend the Michigan Vehicle Code to establish regulations for the operation of low speed vehicles on public roads. Under the bill, "low speed vehicle" would mean an electrically powered vehicle with a capacity of not more than four people including the driver of 1,800 pounds or less in weight that is equipped with all of the following: a) headlamps; b) front and rear turn signal lamps, tail lamps, and stop lamps; c) reflex reflectors: one red on each side as far to the rear as practicable, and one red on the rear; d) an exterior mirror mounted on the driver's side of the vehicle and either an exterior mirror mounted on the passenger's side of the vehicle or an interior mirror; e) a parking brake; f) a windshield that meets the standards prescribed by the vehicle code; f) a vehicle identification number; and, h) a seat belt assembly conforming to the requirements of the code installed at each designated seating position.
In addition, House Bill 5065 would add "low-speed vehicle" to the provisions that describe the acceptable operating procedures for a bicycle, moped, or motorcycle. The specific provisions that also would pertain to the operation of a low-speed vehicle would require the driver to ride as near to the right side of the roadway as practicable; require the driver to exercise due care when passing a standing vehicle or one proceeding in the same direction; prohibit riding more than two abreast except on a path or part of a roadway set aside for the exclusive use of such vehicles; prohibit passing between lines of traffic, but allow passing on the left of traffic moving in the driver's direction in the case of a two-way street, or on the left or right of traffic in the case of a one-way street, in an unoccupied lane; and, prohibit operation on a sidewalk constructed for the use of pedestrians. In addition and only applicable to the operator of a low-speed vehicle, the bill specifies that the vehicle could not be operated at a speed to exceed 25 miles per hour, and that it could not be operated on a highway, road, or street with a speed limit of more than 35 miles per hour.
MCL 257.660
Analyst: J. Hunault