reglab/statecodes huggingface dataset:
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXI - Motor Vehicles › Chapter 265 - Rules of the Road › Section 265:37-c - Signs Advising Motorists Approaching Emergency Vehicles in the Breakdown Lane; Fund Established.

265:37-c Signs Advising Motorists Approaching Emergency Vehicles in the Breakdown Lane;  Fund Established. –
I. There is established a nonlapsing fund to be known as the emergency vehicle warning sign fund which shall be continually appropriated to the department of transportation and which shall be funded by moneys paid through public-private agreements to post signs on the following highways, advising motorists to give one lane of clearance to emergency vehicles in the breakdown lane:
(a) I-93 northbound, one sign at the Massachusetts border, one sign between Salem and Manchester, and 2 signs between Concord and the Vermont border.
(b) I-93 southbound, one sign at the Vermont border, one sign between the Vermont border and Concord, and 2 signs between Concord and the Massachusetts border.
(c) I-89 northbound, 2 signs between Concord and the Vermont border.
(d) I-89 southbound, one sign at the Vermont border and one sign between the Vermont border and Concord.
(e) Route 101 eastbound, one sign at the intersection with I-93 and one sign between the intersection with I-93 and Hampton.
(f) Route 101 westbound, one sign at Hampton and one sign between Hampton and the intersection with I-93.
II. The moneys in the fund shall be expended solely for the purpose of posting the signs in paragraph I. When all such signs have been posted, any balance in the fund shall lapse to the general fund.
Source.
2016, 58:1, eff. July 4, 2016; 223:3, eff. Aug. 8, 2016.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXI - Motor Vehicles › Chapter 265 - Rules of the Road › Section 265:38 - Pedestrians to Use Right Half of Crosswalks.

265:38 Pedestrians to Use Right Half of Crosswalks. –
Pedestrians shall move, whenever practicable upon the right half of crosswalks.
Source.
RSA 262-A:36. 1963, 330:1. 1981, 146:1, eff. Jan. 1, 1982.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXI - Motor Vehicles › Chapter 265 - Rules of the Road › Section 265:39 - Pedestrians on Roadway.

265:39 Pedestrians on Roadway. –
I. Where sidewalks are provided it shall be unlawful for any pedestrian to walk along and upon an adjacent roadway.
II. Where a sidewalk is not available, any pedestrian walking along and upon a way shall walk only on a shoulder, as far as practicable from the edge of the roadway. Where neither a sidewalk nor a shoulder is available, any pedestrian walking along and upon a way shall walk as near as practicable to an outside edge of the roadway, and if on a two-way roadway, shall walk only on the left side of the roadway.
III. Except as otherwise provided in this chapter, any pedestrian upon a roadway shall yield the right of way to all vehicles upon the roadway.
Source.
1955, 295:1. RSA 263:45-a. 1963, 330:1. RSA 262-A:37. 1981, 146:1; 479:37, eff. Jan. 1, 1982 at 12:01 a.m.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXI - Motor Vehicles › Chapter 265 - Rules of the Road › Section 265:40 - Pedestrians Soliciting Rides or Business.

265:40 Pedestrians Soliciting Rides or Business. –
I. No person shall stand on the travelled portion of a roadway for the purpose of soliciting a ride, employment, business or contributions from the occupant of any vehicle.
II. No person shall stand on or in proximity to the traveled portion of a street or way for the purpose of soliciting the watching or guarding of any vehicle while parked or about to be parked on a street or way.
III. It shall be lawful for any person to hitchhike or solicit a ride from the occupant of any vehicle upon any road or way, or limited access road and highway provided that the individual is not, when so doing, standing on the paved portion of the road or way.
IV. No person shall signal a moving vehicle or stop a vehicle on any public way in order to solicit or sell a ticket of admission to an entertainment or sports event.
Source.
RSA 262-A:38. 1963, 330:1. 1971, 532:1. 1974, 31:1. 1981, 146:1; 479:8, 38. 1999, 243:1, eff. July 9, 1999.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXI - Motor Vehicles › Chapter 265 - Rules of the Road › Section 265:41 - Care Required.

265:41 Care Required. –
Whenever a totally or partially blind pedestrian, guided by a dog trained for the purpose or carrying in a raised or extended position a cane or walking stick which is white in color or white tipped with red, crosses or attempts to cross a way, the driver of every vehicle approaching the place where such pedestrian is crossing or attempting to cross shall bring his vehicle to a full stop, and before proceeding shall take such precautions as may be necessary to avoid injuring such pedestrian. Nothing contained in this section shall be construed to deprive any totally or partially blind person, not carrying such a cane or walking stick or not being guided by a dog trained for the purpose, of the rights and privileges conferred by law upon pedestrians crossing ways.
Source.
1939, 65:1. RL 119:34. RSA 263:58. 1957, 184:1. 1959, 240:1. 1963, 61:1. 1981, 146:1, eff. Jan. 1, 1982.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXI - Motor Vehicles › Chapter 265 - Rules of the Road › Section 265:41-a - Approaching a Service Animal.

265:41-a Approaching a Service Animal. –
The driver of a vehicle approaching a person using a service animal shall take all necessary precautions to avoid injury to that person, and any driver who fails to take such precautions shall be liable in damages for any injury caused to that person.
Source.
1983, 275:3. 2011, 170:5, eff. Jan. 1, 2012.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXI - Motor Vehicles › Chapter 265 - Rules of the Road › Section 265:42 - Required Position; Method of Turning at Intersections.

265:42 Required Position;  Method of Turning at Intersections. –
The driver of a vehicle intending to turn at an intersection shall do so as follows:
I.
Right Turns. Both the approach for a right turn and a right turn shall be made as close as practicable to the right-hand curb or edge of the roadway.
II.
Left Turns.
(a) The driver of a vehicle intending to turn left shall approach the turn in the extreme left-hand lane lawfully available to traffic moving in the direction of travel of such vehicle. Whenever practicable, a left turn shall be made to the left of the center of the intersection and so as to leave the intersection or other location in the extreme left hand lane lawfully available to traffic moving in the same direction as such vehicle on the roadway being entered.
(b) The commissioner of transportation and local authorities in their respective jurisdictions may cause traffic signs to be placed and thereby require and direct that a different course from that specified in this section be travelled by turning vehicles. When such signs are so placed, no driver shall drive a vehicle other than as directed and required by such signs.
(c) Where a special lane for making left turns by drivers proceeding in opposite directions has been indicated by official traffic control devices, a left turn shall not be made from any other lane; and a vehicle shall not be driven in the lane except when preparing for or making a left turn from or onto the roadway or when preparing or making a U-turn or other move permitted by law.
III.
Left Turns on Other Than 2-Way Roadways. At an intersection where traffic is restricted to one direction on one or more of the roadways, the driver of a vehicle intending to turn left at any such intersection shall approach the intersection in the extreme left-hand lane lawfully available to traffic moving in the direction of travel of such vehicle, and after entering the intersection the left turn shall be made so as to leave the intersection, as nearly as practicable, in the left-hand lane lawfully available to traffic moving in such direction upon the roadway being entered.
IV. Local authorities in their respective jurisdictions may cause markers, buttons or signs to be placed within or adjacent to intersections and thereby require and direct that a different course from that specified in this section be traveled by vehicles turning at an intersection, and when markers, buttons or signs are so placed, no driver of a vehicle shall turn a vehicle at an intersection other than as directed and required by such markers, buttons or signs.
Source.
RSA 262-A:39. 1963, 330:1. 1981, 146:1; 479:39, eff. Jan. 1, 1982 at 12:01 a.m.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXI - Motor Vehicles › Chapter 265 - Rules of the Road › Section 265:43 - Turning on Curve or Crest of Grade Prohibited.

265:43 Turning on Curve or Crest of Grade Prohibited. –
No vehicle shall be turned so as to proceed in the opposite direction upon any curve, or upon the approach to or near the crest of a grade, where such vehicle cannot be seen by the driver of any other vehicle approaching from either direction within 500 feet.
Source.
RSA 262-A:40. 1963, 330:1. 1981, 146:1, eff. Jan. 1, 1982.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXI - Motor Vehicles › Chapter 265 - Rules of the Road › Section 265:44 - Moving a Vehicle.

265:44 Moving a Vehicle. –
No person shall turn a vehicle or move right or left upon a roadway unless and until such movement can be made with reasonable safety. No person shall turn a vehicle or move right or left upon a roadway without giving an appropriate signal in a manner hereinafter provided.
Source.
RSA 262-A:41. 1963, 330:1. 1981, 146:1; 479:40, eff. Jan. 1, 1982 at 12:01 a.m.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXI - Motor Vehicles › Chapter 265 - Rules of the Road › Section 265:45 - Turning Movements and Required Signals.

265:45 Turning Movements and Required Signals. –
I. No person shall turn a vehicle at an intersection unless the vehicle is in proper position upon the roadway as required in RSA 265:42, or turn a vehicle to enter a private road or driveway, or otherwise turn a vehicle from a direct course or move right or left upon a roadway unless and until such movement can be made with reasonable safety. No person shall so turn any vehicle without giving an appropriate signal in the manner hereinafter provided.
II. A signal of intention to turn right or left when required shall be given continuously during not less than the last 100 feet traveled by the vehicle before turning.
III. No person shall stop or suddenly decrease the speed of a vehicle without first giving an appropriate signal in the manner provided herein to the driver of any vehicle immediately to the rear when there is opportunity to give such signal.
IV. The signals provided for in RSA 265:46, II, shall be used to indicate an intention to turn, change lanes, or start from a parked position and shall not be flashed on one side only on a parked or disabled vehicle, or flashed as a courtesy or "do pass" signal to drivers of other vehicles approaching from the rear.
Source.
1949, 232:1, par. 18-a. RSA 263:34. 1963, 330:1. RSA 262-A:42. 1981, 146:1, eff. Jan. 1, 1982.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXI - Motor Vehicles › Chapter 265 - Rules of the Road › Section 265:46 - Signals by Hand and Arm or Signal Lamps.

265:46 Signals by Hand and Arm or Signal Lamps. –
I. Any stop or turn signal when required herein shall be given either by means of the hand and arm or by lighted signal lamps, except as otherwise provided in paragraph II.
II. Any vehicle in use on a way shall be equipped with, and required signal shall be given by, lighted signal lamps when the distance from the center of the top of the steering post to the left outside limit of the body, cab or load of such vehicle exceeds 24 inches, or when the distance from the center of the top of the steering post to the rear limit of the body or load thereof exceeds 14 feet. The latter measurement shall apply to any single vehicle, and to any combination of vehicles.
Source.
1949, 232:1, par. 18-b. RSA 263:35. 1955, 53:1. 1963, 330:1. RSA 262-A:43. 1981, 146:1, eff. Jan. 1, 1982.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXI - Motor Vehicles › Chapter 265 - Rules of the Road › Section 265:47 - Method of Giving Hand-and-Arm Signals.

265:47 Method of Giving Hand-and-Arm Signals. –
All signals herein required given by hand and arm shall be given from the left side of the vehicle in the following manner and such signals shall indicate as follows:
I. Left turn-Hand and arm extended horizontally.
II. Right turn-Hand and arm extended upward. Or optionally, when on a bicycle, by extending the right hand and arm horizontally.
III. Stop or decrease speed-Hand and arm extended downward.
Source.
1948, 232:1, par. 18-c. RSA 263:26. 1963, 330:1. RSA 262-A:44. 1981, 146:1, eff. Jan. 1, 1982. 2018, 46:2, eff. July 14, 2018.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXI - Motor Vehicles › Chapter 265 - Rules of the Road › Section 265:48 - Obedience to Signal Indicating Approach of Train or Other Maintenance of Way On-Track Equipment.

265:48 Obedience to Signal Indicating Approach of Train or Other Maintenance of Way On-Track Equipment. –
I. Whenever any person driving a vehicle approaches a railroad grade crossing under any of the circumstances stated in this section, the driver of such vehicle shall stop within 50 feet but not less than 15 feet from the nearest rail of such railroad, and shall not proceed until he or she can do so safely. The foregoing requirements shall apply when:
(a) A clearly visible electric or mechanical signal device gives warning of the immediate approach of a railroad train or other maintenance of way on-track equipment;
(b) A crossing gate is lowered or a flagman gives or continues to give a signal of the approach or passage of a railroad train or other maintenance of way on-track equipment;
(c) A railroad train or other maintenance of way on-track equipment approaching within approximately 1500 feet of the way crossing emits a signal audible from such distance and such railroad train or other maintenance of way on-track equipment, by reason of its speed or nearness to such crossing, is an immediate hazard;
(d) An approaching railroad train or other maintenance of way on-track equipment is plainly visible and is in hazardous proximity to such crossing.
II. He or she shall not drive any vehicle through, around, or under any crossing or barrier at a railroad crossing while such gate or barrier is closed or is being opened or closed.
Source.
RSA 262-A:45. 1963, 330:1. 1981, 146:1, eff. Jan. 1, 1982. 2022, 257:1, eff. Aug. 23, 2022.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXI - Motor Vehicles › Chapter 265 - Rules of the Road › Section 265:49 - All Vehicles Must Stop at Certain Railroad Grade Crossings.

265:49 All Vehicles Must Stop at Certain Railroad Grade Crossings. –
The commissioner of transportation is hereby authorized to designate particularly dangerous highway grade crossings of railroads and to order stop signs erected at such crossings. It shall be the duty of the commissioner to erect such stop signs at such designated crossings where said highways are under his jurisdiction. Local communities shall when ordered by commissioner erect such stop signs on highways within their jurisdiction. When such stop signs are erected the driver of any vehicle shall stop within 50 feet but not less than 15 feet from the nearest rail of such railroad and shall proceed only upon exercising due care.
Source.
RSA 262-A:46. 1963, 330:1. 1981, 146:1, eff. Jan. 1, 1982.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXI - Motor Vehicles › Chapter 265 - Rules of the Road › Section 265:50 - Certain Vehicles Must Stop at All Railroad Grade Crossings.

265:50 Certain Vehicles Must Stop at All Railroad Grade Crossings. –
I. The driver of any vehicle carrying passengers for hire, or of any school bus carrying any school child, or of any vehicle carrying explosive substances, before crossing at grade any track or tracks of a railroad, shall stop such vehicle within 50 feet but not less than 15 feet from the nearest rail of such railroad and while so stopped shall listen and look in both directions along such track for any approaching train or other maintenance of way on-track equipment, and for signals indicating the approach of a train or other maintenance of way on-track equipment, except as hereinafter provided, and shall not proceed until he or she can do so safely. After stopping as required herein and upon proceeding when it is safe to do so the driver of any said vehicle shall cross only in such gear of the vehicle that there will be no necessity for changing gears while traversing such crossing and the driver shall not shift gears while crossing the track or tracks.
II. No stop need be made at any such crossing when a police officer or a traffic control signal directs traffic to proceed, or by vehicles engaged in the common or contract carriage of passengers for hire, or school buses transporting school students, when such vehicles or buses are exempt by order of the commissioner of transportation.
III. Every vehicle used for the transportation of flammable liquids in cargo tanks, whether loaded or empty, or for the transportation of cylinders of liquified petroleum gas shall, upon approaching any railroad grade crossing, be brought to a full stop not more than 50 feet and not less than 15 feet from the nearest rail of such grade crossing, and shall not proceed until due caution has been taken to ascertain that the course is clear, except that a full stop need not be made at a railroad grade crossing where a police officer or a traffic control signal (not a railroad flashing signal) directs traffic to proceed; nor at an abandoned or exempted grade crossing which is clearly marked as such by or with the consent of the proper state authority, when such marking can be read from the driver's position.
IV. The term "cylinders of liquefied petroleum gas" as used in this section, shall not be deemed to include the following:
(a) Portable jugs of the nature used by tradesmen such as steamfitters, painters, plumbers, etc.; or
(b) Bottled gas cylinders when attached to house trailers in transit.
Source.
1939, 69:1. RL 119:19. RSA 263:38. 1949, 127:1. RSA 263:78. 1961, 72:1. 1963, 330:1. RSA 262-A:47. 1981, 146:1. 1985, 213:20, eff. Jan. 1, 1986. 2022, 257:2, eff. Aug. 23, 2022.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXI - Motor Vehicles › Chapter 265 - Rules of the Road › Section 265:50-a - Failure to Stop at Railroad Crossings; Fine.

265:50-a Failure to Stop at Railroad Crossings;  Fine. –
The fine for a violation of the provisions of RSA 265:48, RSA 265:49, or RSA 265:50 shall be $100 plus penalty assessment for a first offense and $250 plus penalty assessment for a subsequent offense in a 12-month period.
Source.
2005, 177:30, eff. July 1, 2005. 2015, 202:4, eff. Jan. 1, 2016.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXI - Motor Vehicles › Chapter 265 - Rules of the Road › Section 265:51 - Moving Heavy Equipment at Railroad Grade Crossing.

265:51 Moving Heavy Equipment at Railroad Grade Crossing. –
I. No person shall drive or move any crawler-type tractor, steam shovel, derrick, roller, or any equipment or structure having a normal driving speed of 10 or less miles per hour or a vertical body or load clearance of less than
1/2 inch per foot of the distance between any 2 adjacent axles or in any event of less than 9 inches, measured above the level surface of a roadway, upon or across any tracks at a railroad grade crossing without first complying with this section.
II. Notice of any such intended crossing shall be given to a station agent of such railroad and a reasonable time be given to such railroad to provide proper protection at such crossing.
III. Before making any such crossing the person driving or moving any such vehicle or equipment shall first stop the same not less than 15 feet nor more than 50 feet from the nearest rail of such railroad and while so stopped shall listen and look in both directions along such track for any approaching train or other maintenance of way on-track equipment and for signals indicating the approach of a train or other maintenance of way on-track equipment, and shall not proceed until the crossing can be made safely.
IV. No such crossing shall be made when warning is given by automatic signal or crossing gates or a flagman or otherwise of the immediate approach of a railroad train or car or other maintenance of way on-track equipment. If a flagman is provided by the railroad, movement over the crossing shall be under his or her direction.
V. Any person violating this section shall be fined $125 plus penalty assessment for a first offense and $250 plus penalty assessment for a subsequent offense in a 12-month period.
Source.
RSA 262-A:48. 1963, 330:1. 1981, 146:1, eff. Jan. 1, 1982. 2015, 202:5, eff. Jan. 1, 2016. 2022, 257:3, eff. Aug. 23, 2022.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXI - Motor Vehicles › Chapter 265 - Rules of the Road › Section 265:52 - Penalty for Violation of Railroad Crossing Provision.

265:52 Penalty for Violation of Railroad Crossing Provision. –
If any person is convicted of an offense under any provision of RSA 265:50 or 265:51, such person shall be guilty of a violation for the first offense, and, for any subsequent offense committed during any calendar year, such person shall be guilty of a misdemeanor. The director may revoke such person's driver's license and no new license shall be issued to such person for at least 90 days after the date of such revocation.
Source.
RSA 262-A:49. 1963, 330:1. 1973, 528:141; 529:48. 1981, 146:1, eff. Jan. 1, 1982.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXI - Motor Vehicles › Chapter 265 - Rules of the Road › Section 265:52-a - Penalty for Violation of Railroad Crossing Provision by Commercial Drivers.

265:52-a Penalty for Violation of Railroad Crossing Provision by Commercial Drivers. –
I. In addition to the penalties in RSA 265:52, a person is disqualified from driving a commercial motor vehicle for the period of time specified in paragraph II if he or she is convicted of one of the following offenses at a railroad grade crossing while operating a commercial motor vehicle in violation of a federal, state, or local law or regulation:
(a) For commercial drivers who are not required to stop at all railroad grade crossings, failing to slow down and check that the tracks are clear of an approaching train.
(b) For commercial drivers who are not required to stop at all railroad grade crossings, failing to stop before reaching the crossing, if the tracks are not clear.
(c) For commercial drivers who are required to stop at all railroad grade crossings, failing to stop before driving onto the crossing.
(d) For all commercial drivers, failing to have sufficient space to drive completely through the crossing without stopping.
(e) For all commercial drivers, failing to obey a traffic control device or the directions of a law enforcement officer at the crossing.
(f) For all commercial drivers, failing to negotiate a crossing because of insufficient undercarriage clearance.
II. A person is disqualified from driving a commercial motor vehicle for a period of:
(a) Not less than 60 days if the driver is convicted of or is found to have committed a first offense of a railroad grade crossing violation.
(b) Not less than 120 days if the driver is convicted of a second railroad grade crossing violation in separate incidents within a 3-year period.
(c) Not less that one year if the driver is convicted of a third or subsequent railroad grade crossing violation in separate incidents within a 3-year period.
Source.
2010, 95:5, eff. Jan. 1, 2011.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXI - Motor Vehicles › Chapter 265 - Rules of the Road › Section 265:53 - Emerging From Alley, Driveway or Building.

265:53 Emerging From Alley, Driveway or Building. –
The driver of a vehicle within a business or residence district emerging from an alley, driveway or building shall stop such vehicle immediately prior to driving onto a sidewalk or onto the sidewalk area extending across any alleyway or driveway, and shall yield the right of way to any pedestrian as may be necessary to avoid collision, and upon entering the roadway shall yield the right of way to all vehicles approaching on said roadway.
Source.
RSA 262-A:51. 1963, 330:1. 1981, 146:1, eff. Jan. 1, 1982.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXI - Motor Vehicles › Chapter 265 - Rules of the Road › Section 265:55 - Approaching Buses, Etc.

265:55 Approaching Buses, Etc. –
The driver of any vehicle approaching or passing a bus, streetcar, or other vehicle used for transporting passengers, which has been stopped to allow passengers to alight or embark, shall slow down his vehicle and, if necessary for the safety of the public, bring it to a full stop.
Source.
1915, 129:6. 1921, 119:11. PL 103:12. 1935, 107:1. RL 119:21. RSA 263:42. 1981, 146:1, eff. Jan. 1, 1982.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXI - Motor Vehicles › Chapter 265 - Rules of the Road › Section 265:56 - School Bus Signs.

265:56 School Bus Signs. –
No school bus used for the purpose of transporting school children shall be driven upon the ways of the state unless it carries the designation "School Bus" in a conspicuous place showing to the front and rear thereof in lettering not less than 8 inches in height, and has such other distinguishing marks as the director may prescribe. When a school bus is being driven upon a way for purposes other than the transportation of school children, all designating marks thereon indicating school bus shall be covered or concealed.
Source.
1935, 107:2. RL 119:13. 1949, 114:2. 1951, 20:9. RSA 263:25. 1961, 251:1. 1963, 330:1. RSA 262-A:53. 1981, 146:1, eff. Jan. 1, 1982.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXI - Motor Vehicles › Chapter 265 - Rules of the Road › Section 265:57 - Driving of School Buses.

265:57 Driving of School Buses. –
I. The driver of a school bus shall decrease speed when approaching a school bus stop and activate the amber warning lights a minimum of 100 feet prior to the stop.
II. (a) The driver shall stop the bus as far to the right of the highway as possible, yet remain on the traveled portion of the roadway. If facilities and stopping areas are available, the school bus shall be stopped completely off the highway.
(b) The bus shall be stopped in a position at least 10 feet from the students or in a position which allows students to cross at least 10 feet in front of the bus.
III. As the driver approaches a school bus stop, the driver shall check oncoming traffic, traffic to the rear of the school bus, and traffic to both sides of the school bus to ascertain whether traffic is stopping. When the school bus has come to a complete stop and it is safe to take on or discharge students, the driver shall open the service door and thereby activate the red flashing lights.
IV. If the school bus is equipped with strobe lights, the strobe lights shall be kept in continuous operation at all times throughout the regular route, home-to-school and school-to-home.
V. The fine for a violation of this section shall be $250.
Source.
RSA 263:38-a. 1961, 251:7. 1981, 146:1; 479:11, 42. 2001, 81:1. 2005, 177:33, eff. July 1, 2005.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXI - Motor Vehicles › Chapter 265 - Rules of the Road › Section 265:58 - School Bus Driving Rules.

265:58 School Bus Driving Rules. –
The director shall adopt pursuant to RSA 260:5 and enforce all needful rules to govern the driving of all school buses used for the transportation of school children when owned and driven by any school district, publicly or privately owned, or driven while under contract in this state. The rules shall also apply to buses owned or used by a religious organization or a nonprofit organization used exclusively as a bus for the transportation of the organization's members in connection with functions of the organization.
Source.
1951, 113:1. RSA 263:39. 1981, 146:1. 1989, 305:9, eff. July 1, 1989.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXI - Motor Vehicles › Chapter 265 - Rules of the Road › Section 265:59 - Vehicle Formerly Used as School Bus to be Repainted.

265:59 Vehicle Formerly Used as School Bus to be Repainted. –
Any person who drives a vehicle formerly used as a school bus, as defined in RSA 259:96, on the ways of the state shall cause it to be painted a color readily distinguishable from national school bus chrome yellow.
Source.
RSA 262-A:53-a. 1969, 3:1. 1981, 146:1, eff. Jan. 1, 1982.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXI - Motor Vehicles › Chapter 265 - Rules of the Road › Section 265:61 - Speed Exception.

265:61 Speed Exception. –
The speed limitations set forth in RSA 265:60 shall not apply to vehicles when driven with due regard for safety under the direction of the peace officers in the chase or apprehension of violators of the law or of persons charged with or suspected of any such violation, nor to fire department or fire patrol vehicles when traveling in response to a fire alarm, nor to public or private ambulances or other emergency vehicles when traveling in emergencies. This exemption shall not, however, protect the driver of any such vehicle from the consequences of a reckless disregard of the safety of others.
Source.
1937, 125:2. RL 119:33. RSA 263:57. 1959, 179:1. 1963, 330:1. RSA 262-A:55. 1981, 146:1, eff. Jan. 1, 1982.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXI - Motor Vehicles › Chapter 265 - Rules of the Road › Section 265:63 - Alteration of Limits.

265:63 Alteration of Limits. –
I. Whenever local authorities in their respective jurisdictions determine on the basis of an engineering or traffic investigation that the prima facie speed permitted under this chapter is greater or less than is reasonable and safe under the conditions found to exist upon a way or part of a way, the local authority may determine and declare a reasonable and safe prima facie limit thereon which:
(a) Decreases the limit at intersections;
(b) Increases the limit within an urban district but not to more than 60 miles per hour;
(c) Decreases the limit outside an urban district but not to less than 25 miles per hour; or
(d) Decreases the limit within any business or urban residence district but not to less than 25 miles per hour.
II. Local authorities in their respective jurisdictions shall determine by an engineering or traffic investigation the proper prima facie speed for all arterial streets and shall declare a reasonable and safe prima facie limit thereon which may be greater or less than the prima facie speed permitted hereunder for an urban district.
II-a. Local authorities shall not be required to hire outside consultants to determine the proper prima facie speed limits as provided in paragraphs I and II if the local community has sufficient staff to conduct the required engineering or traffic investigation.
III. Any altered limit established as hereinabove authorized shall be effective at all times or during hours of darkness or at other times as may be determined when appropriate signs giving notice thereof are erected upon such street or way.
IV. Any alteration of limits on state highways or extensions thereof in a municipality by local authorities shall not be effective until such alteration has been approved by the commissioner of transportation.
V. Notwithstanding the other provisions of this section, local authorities shall modify the speed limits authorized herein so that said speed limits shall not exceed the temporary prima facie speed limits established for the state highway system under RSA 265:62, II, so long as the same are in effect.
Source.
RSA 262-A:56-a. 1965, 335:3. 1974, 45:10. 1981, 146:1. 1989, 306:1. 1990, 74:1, 2, eff. June 9, 1990.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXI - Motor Vehicles › Chapter 265 - Rules of the Road › Section 265:64 - Minimum Speed Regulation.

265:64 Minimum Speed Regulation. –
I. No person shall drive a vehicle at such a slow speed as to impede the normal and reasonable movement of traffic except when reduced speed is necessary for safe operation or in compliance with law. Under this provision a minimum speed limit of 45 miles per hour shall be posted and prevail on the interstate highway system in the state.
II. Whenever the commissioner of transportation determines on the basis of engineering and traffic investigation that slow speeds on any part of a way consistently impede the normal and reasonable movement of traffic, said commissioner may determine and declare a minimum prima facie speed limit.
Source.
1937, 125:2. RL 119:31. RSA 263:55. 1955, 119:1. 1963, 330:1. RSA 262-A:57. 1971, 202:1. 1981, 146:1, eff. Jan. 1, 1982.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXI - Motor Vehicles › Chapter 265 - Rules of the Road › Section 265:65 - Special Speed Limitation on Motor-driven Cycles.

265:65 Special Speed Limitation on Motor-driven Cycles. –
No person shall drive any motor-driven cycle in the night time at a speed greater than 35 miles per hour unless such motor-driven cycle is equipped with a lighted headlamp or lamps which are adequate to reveal a person or vehicle at a distance of 300 feet ahead.
Source.
RSA 262-A:58. 1963, 330:1. 1981, 146:1, eff. Jan. 1, 1982.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXI - Motor Vehicles › Chapter 265 - Rules of the Road › Section 265:66 - Special Speed Limitations.

265:66 Special Speed Limitations. –
I. No person shall drive a vehicle which is towing a house trailer at a speed greater than a maximum of 45 miles per hour.
II. No person shall drive any vehicle equipped with solid rubber or cushion tires at a speed greater than a maximum of 10 miles per hour.
III. No person shall drive a vehicle over any bridge or other elevated structure constituting a part of a way at a speed which is greater than the maximum speed which can be maintained with safety to such bridge or structure, when such structure is signposted as provided in this section.
IV. The commissioner of transportation upon request from any local authority shall, or upon his own initiative may, conduct an investigation of any bridge or other elevated structure constituting a part of a highway, and if he shall thereupon find that such structure cannot with safety to itself withstand vehicles traveling at the speed otherwise permissible under this chapter, said commissioner shall determine and declare the maximum speed of vehicles which such structure can safely withstand, and shall cause or permit suitable signs stating such maximum speed to be erected and maintained at a distance of 100 feet before each end of such structure.
V. Upon the trial of any person charged with a violation of this section, proof of said determination of the maximum speed by said commissioner and the existence of said signs shall constitute conclusive evidence of the maximum speed which can be maintained with safety to such bridge or structure.
Source.
RSA 262-A:59. 1963, 330:1. 1981, 146:1, eff. Jan. 1, 1982.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXI - Motor Vehicles › Chapter 265 - Rules of the Road › Section 265:67 - Charging Violations and Rule in Civil Actions.

265:67 Charging Violations and Rule in Civil Actions. –
I. In every charge of violation of any speed regulation in this chapter the complaint shall set forth the manner in which the alleged speed was unreasonable and imprudent or shall specify the speed at which the defendant is alleged to have driven and the prima facie speed applicable within the district or at the location.
II. The provision of this chapter declaring prima facie speed limitations shall not be construed to relieve the plaintiff in any action from the burden of proving negligence on the part of the defendant as the proximate cause of an accident.
Source.
RSA 262-A:60. 1963, 330:1. 1965, 80:1. 1981, 146:1, eff. Jan. 1, 1982.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXI - Motor Vehicles › Chapter 265 - Rules of the Road › Section 265:68 - Stopping, Standing or Parking Outside Business or Residence Districts.

265:68 Stopping, Standing or Parking Outside Business or Residence Districts. –
I. Upon any way outside of a business or residence district no person shall stop, park or leave standing any vehicle, whether attended or unattended, upon the paved or main-traveled part of the way when it is practicable to stop, park or so leave such vehicle off such part of said way, but in every event an unobstructed width of the way opposite a standing vehicle shall be left for the free passage of other vehicles and clear view of such stopped vehicles shall be available from a distance of 200 feet in each direction upon such way.
II. This section shall not apply to the driver of any vehicle which is disabled while on the paved or main-traveled portion of a way in such manner and to such extent that it is impossible to avoid stopping and temporarily leaving such disabled vehicle in such position.
Source.
1927, 76:3. RL 119:26. 1949, 136:1. RSA 263:50. 1963, 330:1. RSA 262-A:70. 1981, 146:1, eff. Jan. 1, 1982.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXI - Motor Vehicles › Chapter 265 - Rules of the Road › Section 265:69-a - Enforcement of Parking Prohibition in Parking Spaces and Access Aisles Designated for Persons With a Walking Disability.

265:69-a Enforcement of Parking Prohibition in Parking Spaces and Access Aisles Designated for Persons With a Walking Disability. –
I. Testimony under oath with clear photographic evidence from a person with a walking disability pursuant to RSA 261:86 or RSA 261:88 or the driver of a vehicle transporting such a person that a vehicle that does not display a special plate or placard issued or recognized pursuant to RSA 261:86 or RSA 261:88 was parked in a designated parking space for persons with a walking disability or any vehicle parked in or overlapping into an access aisle shall be sufficient evidence to prove that the owner of the vehicle has violated RSA 265:69, I(j) or (m), unless such evidence is rebutted or contradicted.
II. Upon receipt of testimony under paragraph I by the appropriate law enforcement agency, such agency shall fine the violator a minimum of $250 pursuant to RSA 265:69, I(j).
Source.
2003, 71:3, eff. Jan. 1, 2004. 2017, 68:1, eff. Jan. 1, 2018.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXI - Motor Vehicles › Chapter 265 - Rules of the Road › Section 265:70 - Local Ordinances Not Superseded.

265:70 Local Ordinances Not Superseded. –
The provisions of RSA 265:69 shall not supersede the provisions of any local ordinance which has been adopted to regulate parking in restricted areas in the compact part of any city or town.
Source.
RSA 262-A:71-a. 1971, 127:1. 1981, 146:1, eff. Jan. 1, 1982.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXI - Motor Vehicles › Chapter 265 - Rules of the Road › Section 265:71 - Additional Parking Regulations.

265:71 Additional Parking Regulations. –
I. Except as otherwise provided in this section every vehicle stopped or parked upon a roadway where there are adjacent curbs shall be so stopped or parked with the right-hand wheels of such vehicle parallel to the right-hand curb, or if upon a roadway where there are no curbs said vehicle shall be so stopped or parked with the right-hand wheels of such vehicle parallel to the right-hand side of the traveled portion of the way.
II. Except when otherwise provided by local ordinance, every vehicle stopped or parked upon a one-way roadway shall be so stopped or parked parallel to the curb or edge of the roadway, in the direction of authorized traffic movement with its right-hand wheels within 12 inches of the right-hand curb or edge of the roadway, or its left-hand wheels within 12 inches of the left-hand curb or edge of the roadway.
III. Local authorities may by ordinance permit angle parking on any roadway, except that angle parking shall not be permitted on any federal-aid or state way unless authorized by the commissioner of transportation.
IV. The commissioner of transportation with respect to ways under the department's jurisdiction may place signs to prohibit or restrict the stopping, standing or parking of vehicles on any way where in the commissioner's opinion such stopping, standing or parking is dangerous to those using the way or where the stopping, standing or parking of vehicles would unduly interfere with the free movement of traffic thereon or to control the parking of vehicles at a park and ride facility. Such signs shall be official signs and no person shall stop, stand or park any vehicle in violation of the restrictions stated on such signs.
Source.
RSA 262-A:72. 1963, 330:1. 1967, 342:1. 1981, 146:1. 2008, 210:6, eff. Aug. 15, 2008.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXI - Motor Vehicles › Chapter 265 - Rules of the Road › Section 265:72 - Unattended Vehicle.

265:72 Unattended Vehicle. –
I. No person driving or in charge of a vehicle shall permit it to stand unattended without first stopping the engine, locking the ignition, removing the key, and effectively setting the brake thereon and, when standing upon any grade, turning the front wheels to the curb or side of the way, unless such vehicle has been started by remote control car starter. This paragraph does not prohibit a person in charge of a vehicle from idling the vehicle unattended on his or her own property.
II. No person shall start a vehicle by remote control unless the doors of the vehicle are locked; the doors shall remain locked until the operator arrives at the vehicle.
Source.
1921, 119:11. PL 103:15. RL 119:24. RSA 263:47. 1963, 330:1. RSA 262-A:73. 1981, 146:1. 1997, 314:6, eff. Jan. 1, 1998. 2018, 22:1, eff. July 14, 2018.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXI - Motor Vehicles › Chapter 265 - Rules of the Road › Section 265:73 - Free Parking for Disabled and for Official Purposes.

265:73 Free Parking for Disabled and for Official Purposes. –
Any motor vehicle carrying special number plates issued to paraplegic, amputee or blind war veterans pursuant to RSA 261:86 and 87, and any motor vehicle used for a purpose, or by a person, designated by a city council or town meeting, shall be allowed free parking time in any city or town so long as said motor vehicle is under the direct control of the owner. The provisions of this section shall apply to a veteran who suffers a disability incurred in or aggravated by such service, upon satisfactory proof that the veteran has been evaluated by the United States department of veterans affairs to be permanently and totally disabled from such service connected disability.
Source.
1949, 143:1, par. 12-b. RSA 249:4. 1971, 305:1. 1973, 320:4; 374:1. 1974, 45:17. 1981, 146:1, eff. Jan. 1, 1982.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXI - Motor Vehicles › Chapter 265 - Rules of the Road › Section 265:73-a - Parking Signs; Disabled.

265:73-a Parking Signs;  Disabled. –
A parking space on private or public property that is reserved for persons who are disabled shall be marked by a sign affixed to a post or a building. Said sign shall be clearly visible to anyone directly approaching that particular space. Van-accessible spaces shall be allocated according to the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 and regulations and guidelines promulgated pursuant thereto. One "van only" spot for every 5 spaces which are reserved for persons who are disabled is recommended. Failure to comply with the sign placement requirements of this section shall subject the property owner to a $250 fine, provided that the owner shall not be fined more than once in any 120-day period for the same violation.
Source.
1983, 50:1. 1990, 140:2, X. 2010, 252:1, eff. Jan. 1, 2011. 2016, 304:4, eff. Jan. 1, 2017.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXI - Motor Vehicles › Chapter 265 - Rules of the Road › Section 265:74 - Parking Privileges for Persons With Walking Disability.

265:74 Parking Privileges for Persons With Walking Disability. –
Any motor vehicle carrying the special plates or hanging windshield placard issued to a person with a walking disability under RSA 261:88, or a similar license plate displaying the international accessibility symbol shall be allowed free parking in any city or town, including any state or municipal parking facility where a fee is charged. Each city or town shall have the discretion to set the time periods using guidelines which shall be provided by the governor's commission on disability. The free parking shall only be allowed if the person who qualifies for the special plates or hanging placard is being transported in the vehicle to or from the parking place. Parking places designated for persons with walking disabilities shall be utilized only if a person with a walking disability is being transported in the vehicle to or from the parking place. Notwithstanding the provisions of any local ordinance which has been adopted to regulate parking in places designated for persons with walking disabilities, any person who is convicted under this section shall be guilty of a violation and fined $250 plus penalty assessment of which 20 percent is payable to the town or city where the violation occurred.
Source.
RSA 249:4-a. 1957, 160:2. 1977, 301:2. 1978, 26:2. 1979, 417:4. 1981, 146:1. 1988, 65:4. 1993, 268:2. 1995, 16:1. 1998, 266:1, eff. Jan. 1, 1999. 2015, 202:9, eff. Jan. 1, 2016. 2016, 304:5, eff. Jan. 1, 2017.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXI - Motor Vehicles › Chapter 265 - Rules of the Road › Section 265:74-a - Obstruction of Parking Place for Persons With Walking Disability.

265:74-a Obstruction of Parking Place for Persons With Walking Disability. –
I. No property owner shall:
(a) Allow any unreasonable obstruction of any parking place, or access aisle reserved for a person with a walking disability after 24 hours following the conclusion of an adverse weather event.
(b) Allow the accumulation of debris or large objects, such as trash containers, to unreasonably obstruct any parking place or access aisles reserved for a person with a walking disability without providing suitable on-site, equivalent, alternative parking spaces.
II. Paragraph I shall apply to both public and private property where a parking place or access aisle is specifically designated for a person with a walking disability by means of a sign or stenciling as required by RSA 265:73-a stating that the space is reserved for a person with a walking disability or displaying the international accessibility symbol.
III. Any property owner who violates this section shall be guilty of a violation and fined up to $250 of which 20 percent is payable to the town or city where the violation occurred.
Source.
2008, 304:1, eff. Jan. 1, 2009. 2016, 304:6, eff. Jan. 1, 2017.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXI - Motor Vehicles › Chapter 265 - Rules of the Road › Section 265:75 - Racing on Highways.

265:75 Racing on Highways. –
I. No person shall drive any vehicle on a highway in any race, speed competition or contest, drag race or acceleration contest, test of physical endurance, exhibition of speed or acceleration, or for the purpose of making a speed record; and no person shall in any manner participate in any such race, competition, contest, test or exhibition.
II. The driving of 2 or more vehicles from a point side-by-side at accelerating speeds in a competitive attempt to outdistance each other, or the driving of one or more vehicles over a common selected course, where the starting and finishing points are the same, for the purpose of comparing the relative speeds or power of acceleration of such vehicle or vehicles within a certain distance or time limit on a highway is prohibited.
III. The use of one or more vehicles in an attempt to outgain, outdistance, or prevent another vehicle from passing, to arrive at a given destination ahead of another vehicle or vehicles, or to test the physical stamina or endurance of drivers over long distance driving routes on a highway is prohibited.
IV. Any person convicted of violating this section shall be guilty of a violation.
Source.
1937, 34:1. RL 119:35. RSA 263:59. 1973, 528:143. 1981, 146:1; 479:45. 1990, 60:3, eff. Jan. 1, 1991.