New laws will come into effect on Thursday in Tennessee, bringing significant changes that may enhance road safety and impact driver licensing procedures.
One noteworthy change mandates that hand signals for bicyclists are now required to be part of the driver license examination in the state. Matthew Paul, president of Ride JC, emphasized the importance of this addition, noting that while the information had been included in the driver manual, it had not previously been tested. Paul’s advocacy for better bicycle infrastructure stems from personal experiences, including a frightening encounter where a driver misinterpreted his signal to turn left, nearly causing an accident.
In a more impactful shift regarding driver licenses, Tennessee has announced that it will no longer accept licenses issued from other states to immigrants residing in the country illegally. Additionally, non-citizens will not be able to obtain a permanent Tennessee driver license; instead, they will be limited to temporary licenses.
Moreover, legislation has been introduced that strengthens penalties for individuals suspected of driving under the influence who refuse breath or blood tests. The duration of license suspension for such refusals will increase from one year to a year and a half. Sullivan County patrol Sergeant Jacob Hulse highlighted the efficacy of this law as a means to curtail repeat offenses, emphasizing the tragic realities of DUI incidents witnessed on the job. Following the issuance of a warrant, officers will now have the authority to use reasonable force to facilitate blood sample acquisition, ensuring that accurate evidence is obtained.
These new regulations reflect Tennessee’s commitment to improving road safety and enforcing accountability among drivers, ultimately aiming for a safer environment for all road users.