HB246 Alabama 2017 Session

Updated Feb 26, 2026

Notable

Summary

Primary Sponsor: Napoleon BracyRepresentative
Democrat
Session: Regular Session 2017
Title: Railroad crossing, requirement to stop, approach of other on-track equipment covered, Secs. 32-5A-150, 32-5A-151, 32-5A-152 am'd.
Summary: HB246 would extend railroad crossing stopping rules to also apply when other on-track equipment is approaching crossings, with the same penalties as trains.
What This Bill Does
It amends the law to require a driver to stop within 15 to 50 feet of the nearest rail when any on-track equipment is approaching a railroad crossing, and to proceed only when it is safe. It applies the same stop-and-signal rules and penalties to other on-track equipment as to trains. It also notes that the measure is exempt from typical local-funding requirements because it creates or amends a crime. It becomes effective on the first day of the third month after approval by the Governor.

Who It Affects
Drivers of vehicles approaching railroad grade crossings would be required to stop within 15-50 feet and follow signals when other on-track equipment is near.
Operators of other on-track equipment and heavy machinery (such as crawler-type tractors, steam shovels, derricks, and rollers) would face the same stopping rules and penalties as train operators.

Key Provisions
Extends Sections 32-5A-150, 32-5A-151, 32-5A-152 to cover other on-track equipment approaching crossings.
Stops must be 15 to 50 feet from the nearest rail and proceed only when it is safe.
Rules apply under conditions such as warning signals, gates, flagmen, or audible signals indicating approach, and when equipment is plainly visible and near the crossing.
Crossings may not be crossed when gates are closed or warnings indicate immediate danger; flagman directions must be followed.
Penalties remain the same as current law for violations.
The bill includes language about Amendment 621; it is exempt from local-funding requirements because it defines or amends a crime.
Effective date: the first day of the third month after the Governor signs the bill.

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