Truckers have to be on constant lookout for new rules which may affect them since they drive from one location to another. fresh-off legislative activity across the nation, July is among the primary weeks to get new legislation to take effect. Following are a few noteworthy legislation.

South Dakota
Starting the first of the month, CDL applicants are allowed three attempts to pass the CDL examination. The new law requires the three attempts to be taken within six months.

Another new law permits truck drivers to provide an electronic copy of their operator’s license upon request by law enforcement.

Mississippi
The state already requires vehicles driving slower than the normal speed of traffic to stay in the right lane of multi lane highways. Vehicles are allowed to merge left to overtake and pass slower moving traffic.

As of July 1, a new law permits police to ticket travelers lingering in the far left lanes of multi lane highways. The change expands the state’s rule to require travelers to stay to the right except when overtaking or passing another vehicle. Also, drivers would be exempt if they are in the left lane to turn or exit. Violators could face fines between $5 and $50.

West Virginia
A new law in West Virginia requires the state’s Division of Highways to study the feasibility of implementing a comprehensive sponsorship program for rest areas, welcome centers and roads. If a program is deemed feasible, the agency would begin implementation.

Idaho
One new law in Idaho is intended to keep vehicles out of the far-left lane for “an unreasonable amount of time.”

State law already prohibits impeding the “normal and reasonable movement of traffic” with slow driving. Effective July 1, the new rule covers impeding “the flow of other traffic traveling at a lawful rate of speed.” Essentially, slow drivers in the far-left lane are forbidden to impede other drivers traveling the speed limit. Violators could face $90 citations.

A separate new law permits drivers who strike wildlife to humanely kill the animal at the roadside if the injury is fatal. Law enforcement no longer must be on the scene to take action.

Indiana

As of July 1, truck platoons are also exempted from the state’s 300-foot following distance rule for large vehicles.

In addition, fire departments throughout the state are allowed to test vehicular carbon monoxide levels upon request of the vehicle owner or assigned driver.