Update: Tennessee Drivers Could Face Reckless Driving Charge for Ignoring Flood Signs

Tennessee drivers who ignore flood warning signs or barricades could be charged with reckless driving under a bill headed to the governor for his consideration.

The House voted unanimously on May 6 to approve the measure sponsored by Rep. Curt Cobb, a Shelbyville Democrat.

The legislation, which unanimously passed the Tennessee Senate last month, would also prohibit lawsuits by drivers or passengers hurt after ignoring the barricades.

The lone exception for allowing lawsuits to go forward would be if injuries were suffered after being waved by a barrier by an authorized government worker.

Gov. Phil Bredesen could not be immediately reached for comment about whether he will sign the bill.
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Read HB2529 on the General Assembly’s Web site at http://www.legislature.state.tn.us