Vehicles: passing and overtaking: waste service vehicles.

Existing law requires the driver of a vehicle overtaking another vehicle proceeding in the same direction to pass to the left at a safe distance without interfering with the safe operation of the overtaken vehicle, as specified. Existing law requires the driver of a vehicle overtaking any interurban electric or streetcar stopped or about to stop for the purpose of receiving or discharging any passenger to stop the vehicle to the rear of the nearest running board or door of the car and remain standing until all passengers have boarded the car, or upon alighting have reached a place of safety, except as provided. A violation of these provisions is an offense. This bill would require, commencing January 1, 2020, and subject to exceptions, the driver of a vehicle on a public street or highway approaching or overtaking a stopped waste service vehicle, as defined, to make a lane change into an available lane adjacent to the waste service vehicle and pass at a safe distance without interfering with the safe operation of the waste service vehicle, with due regard for safety and traffic conditions, if practicable and not prohibited by law. The bill would require that if that maneuver would be unsafe or impractical, the driver slow to a reasonable and prudent speed that is safe for existing weather, road, and vehicular or pedestrian traffic conditions. The requirements of the bill would apply if the waste service vehicle is readily identifiable as a waste service vehicle based on the vehicle configuration or markings on the vehicle, and displays flashing amber lights. Because a violation of these provisions would be a crime, this bill would impose a state-mandated local program. The California Constitution requires the state to reimburse local agencies and school districts for certain costs mandated by the state. Statutory provisions establish procedures for making that reimbursement. This bill would provide that no reimbursement is required by this act for a specified reason.