HB525 Alabama 2013 Session

Updated Feb 27, 2026

Notable

Summary

Primary Sponsor: Steve McMillan
Republican
Co-Sponsors: Alan Baker Phil Williams Joe Faust Dickie Drake Harry Shiver Barry Mask
Session: Regular Session 2013
Title: Motor vehicles, low speed motor vehicles, limited operation on public roads, restrictions and equipment, Sec. 32-19-1 am'd.
Summary: HB525 would allow limited use of low speed vehicles on certain municipal streets, define what counts as a low speed vehicle, and set licensing, safety, and local regulation rules for their operation.
What This Bill Does
Defines a low speed vehicle as a four-wheeled electric or gas-powered vehicle with a top speed of 20–25 mph. It authorizes limited operation on municipal public streets in residential areas, as defined by the municipality, provided the vehicle meets safety standards and the operator has a valid driver's license; municipalities can adopt stricter rules. Operators must use a full lane, not overtake in the same lane, and not operate between lanes or two abreast; they must yield to pedestrians and give an audible signal before overtaking a pedestrian. Night operation is allowed only if the vehicle has headlights and other required equipment, and otherwise LSVs run sunrise to sunset; license plates or registration are not required. Municipalities may prohibit operation on rights-of-way with speed limits over 25 mph and must post notices about any such ordinance.

Who It Affects
Operators of low speed vehicles on municipal streets in residential areas, who must have a valid driver's license, follow safety rules, and obey local restrictions.
Municipalities and local governments, which can regulate or restrict low speed vehicle use (including prohibiting operation on certain streets and posting required notices).

Key Provisions
Low speed vehicle defined as a four-wheeled electric or gas-powered vehicle with top speed between 20 and 25 mph on a paved level surface.
Authorized limited operation on municipal public streets in residential areas; must comply with Department of Public Safety safety standards; operator must possess a valid driver's license; vehicle is entitled to full use of a lane; no passing in the same lane; no operation between lanes or two abreast.
Operator must yield to pedestrians and provide an audible signal before overtaking a pedestrian.
Night operation rules: LSVs may operate between sunrise and sunset unless equipped with headlights, brake lights, turn signals, and a windshield; electric personal assistive mobility devices may operate at night with a reflector and headlight.
Municipalities may enact more restrictive ordinances, including prohibiting operation on rights-of-way where the speed limit is over 25 mph; municipalities must post appropriate signs informing residents of the ordinance.
License plates and vehicle registration are not required for low speed vehicles under this section.

AI-generated summary using openai/gpt-5-nano on Feb 24, 2026. May contain errors — refer to the official bill text for accuracy.
Subjects: Motor Vehicles