11/22/04-An effort to reduce gridlock caused by accidents in Pennsylvania has died.
The “Steer it Clear” bill, sponsored by Rep. Kate Harper, R-Lower Gwynedd, sought to require drivers to remove their vehicles from traffic lanes after minor accidents.
The Senate Transportation Committee failed to take up the measure before the session concluded early Sunday, Nov. 21, effectively killing it for the year. The bill – HB2606 – previously passed the House.
“Pennsylvania roadways are one of the most dangerous places to be after an accident,” Harper said at the time of the bill’s House passage. “Traffic accidents not only cause horrible traffic congestion, but often also lead to additional accidents. A simple fender-bender sometimes can cause a secondary accident involving fatalities in many cases. This legislation would certainly reduce that risk.”
The bill required drivers to remove their vehicles from traffic lanes, as long as the vehicles are still drivable and no serious injuries were suffered.
Drivers who comply with the law would not be considered liable or at fault regarding the cause of the accident solely for moving their vehicles from the scene. Drivers would, however, still be required to stay in the vicinity of the accident scene to provide information.
Individuals who fail to remove their vehicles from the roadway would be charged with a summary offense punishable by a $50 fine.
A similar bill – SB946 – met the same fate.

7/22/04-The House of Representatives unanimously approved a measure earlier this month intended to reduce gridlock caused by accidents. The bill has been sent to the Senate Transportation Committee for consideration.
The “Steer it Clear” bill, sponsored by Rep. Kate Harper, R-Lower Gwynedd, would require drivers to remove their vehicles from traffic lanes after a minor accident.
HB2606 would require drivers to remove their vehicles from traffic lanes, as long as the vehicles are still drivable and no serious injuries were suffered.
Drivers who comply with the law would not be considered liable or at fault regarding the cause of the accident solely for moving their vehicles from the scene. Drivers would, however, still be required to stay in the vicinity of the accident scene to provide information.
Individuals who fail to remove their vehicles from the roadway would be charged with a summary offense punishable by a $50 fine.
A similar bill – SB946 – is in the Senate Rules and Executive Nominations Committee. For bill status, call (717) 787-2342.