reglab/statecodes huggingface dataset:
2023 Tennessee Code › Title 55 - MOTOR AND OTHER VEHICLES (§§ 55-1-101 — 55-53-105) › Chapter 8 - OPERATION OF VEHICLES - RULES OF THE ROAD (§§ 55-8-101 — 55-8-307) › Part 2 - OPERATION OF VEHICLES - RULES OF THE ROAD - CONTINUED (§§ 55-8-NEW — 55-8-212) › Section 55-8-NEW - [Newly enacted section not yet numbered] (§ 55-8-NEW) › 1

(a)
A person shall not operate a passenger motor vehicle on any street, road, or highway in this state if, by alteration of the suspension, frame, or chassis, the height of the vehicle's front fender is four (4) or more inches greater than the height of the rear fender. For purposes of this subsection (a), the height of the fender is a vertical measurement from and perpendicular to the ground, through the centerline of the wheel, and to the bottom of the fender.
(b)
A violation of this section is a Class B misdemeanor, punishable as follows:
(1)
By a fine of two hundred fifty dollars ($250) for the first offense in a twelve-month period;
(2)
By a fine of five hundred dollars ($500) for the second offense in a twelve-month period; and
(3)
By a fine of five hundred dollars ($500) and a twelve-month revocation of the person's driver license for the third offense in a twelve-month pehod.
(c)
Within thirty (30) days of conviction for a violation of this section, the clerk of the court of conviction shall give notice of this conviction to the department of safety.
Added by 2024 Tenn. Acts, ch. 541,s 1, eff. 7/1/2024.
2023 Tennessee Code › Title 55 - MOTOR AND OTHER VEHICLES (§§ 55-1-101 — 55-53-105) › Chapter 8 - OPERATION OF VEHICLES - RULES OF THE ROAD (§§ 55-8-101 — 55-8-307) › Part 2 - OPERATION OF VEHICLES - RULES OF THE ROAD - CONTINUED (§§ 55-8-NEW — 55-8-212) › Section 55-8-NEW - [Newly enacted section not yet numbered] (§ 55-8-NEW) › 2

(a)
A county or municipality may hire employees or appoint volunteers to direct vehicles, excluding emergency vehicles, on a public road or highway within a marked school zone for dropping off or picking up students at a public, private, or charter school within the jurisdiction of the county or municipality when a warning flasher or flashers are in operation and only during the period of time that is necessary for the convenience of dropping off or picking up students.
(b)
The county or municipality shall ensure that appropriate signage is posted in advance of the marked school zone informing drivers as to the dropping off or picking up of students at the approaching school zone. All regulatory and warning signs relating to the dropping off or picking up of students must comply with the manual on uniform traffic control devices (MUTCD).
(c)
The county or municipality shall ensure that while an individual employed or appointed pursuant to subsection (a) is performing the duties described in subsection (a), that the individual:
(1)
Is an adult who has received training and is qualified to comply with the MUTCD in their duties;
(2)
Wears high-visibility retroreflective safety apparel labeled as ANSI 107-2020 standard performance for Class 2, Type R, as described in the MUTCD; and
(3)
Uses a STOP paddle that complies with the MUTCD, including, but not limited to, being retroreflective or illuminated when used during hours of darkness or limited visibility.
(d)
This section does not apply to access-controlled roadways designated as being on the state system of highways and on roadways designated as being on the state system of interstate highways.
(e)
A motor vehicle operator who knowingly ignores a regulatory or warning sign posted pursuant to subsection (b) for the dropping off or picking up of students commits a Class C misdemeanor, punishable by fine only of fifty dollars ($50.00).
Added by 2024 Tenn. Acts, ch. 948,s 1, eff. 7/1/2024.
2023 Tennessee Code › Title 55 - MOTOR AND OTHER VEHICLES (§§ 55-1-101 — 55-53-105) › Chapter 8 - OPERATION OF VEHICLES - RULES OF THE ROAD (§§ 55-8-101 — 55-8-307) › Part 2 - OPERATION OF VEHICLES - RULES OF THE ROAD - CONTINUED (§§ 55-8-NEW — 55-8-212) › Section 55-8-201 - Operation of a platoon

(a)
A person may operate a platoon on the streets and highways of this state after the person provides notification to the department of transportation and the department of safety. The notification provided pursuant to this subsection (a) must include a plan for general platoon operations.
(b)
If the notification and the plan submitted pursuant to subsection (a) are not rejected by either the department of transportation or the department of safety within thirty (30) days after receipt of the notification and the plan, the person may operate a platoon on the streets and highways of this state.
(c)
For purposes of a platoon operating pursuant to this section:
(1)
Vehicles in the platoon are not a caravan or motorcade;
(2)
The lead vehicle in the platoon is not drawing any subsequent vehicle in the platoon; and
(3)
If the platoon includes a commercial motor vehicle, an appropriately endorsed driver who holds a valid commercial driver license must be present behind the wheel of each commercial motor vehicle in the platoon.
Added by 2017 Tenn. Acts, ch. 171,s 4, eff. 4/24/2017.
2023 Tennessee Code › Title 55 - MOTOR AND OTHER VEHICLES (§§ 55-1-101 — 55-53-105) › Chapter 8 - OPERATION OF VEHICLES - RULES OF THE ROAD (§§ 55-8-101 — 55-8-307) › Part 2 - OPERATION OF VEHICLES - RULES OF THE ROAD - CONTINUED (§§ 55-8-NEW — 55-8-212) › Section 55-8-202 - Motor vehicles equipped with autonomous technology

(a)
No political subdivision may by ordinance, resolution, or any other means prohibit within the jurisdictional boundaries of the political subdivision the use of a motor vehicle equipped with autonomous technology if the motor vehicle otherwise complies with all safety regulations of the political subdivision.
(b)
(1)
"Autonomous technology" means technology installed on a motor vehicle that has the capability to drive the vehicle on which the technology is installed in high or full automation mode, without any supervision by a human operator, with specific driving mode performance by the automated driving system of all aspects of the dynamic driving task that can be managed by a human driver, including the ability to automatically bring the motor vehicle into a minimal risk condition in the event of a critical vehicle or system failure or other emergency event;
(2)
"Driving mode" means a type of driving scenario with characteristic dynamic driving task requirements including, but not limited to, the following:
(A)
Expressway merging;
(B)
High speed cruising;
(C)
Low speed traffic jam; and
(D)
Closed-campus operations;
(3)
"Dynamic driving task" means the operational and tactical aspects of the driving task, but does not include the strategic aspect of the driving task;
(4)
"Operational" means steering, braking, accelerating, and monitoring the vehicle and roadway;
(5)
"Strategic" means determining destinations and waypoints; and
(6)
"Tactical" includes, but is not limited to, the following:
(A)
Responding to events; and
(B)
Determining when to change lanes, turn, or use signals.
Amended by 2016 Tenn. Acts, ch. 927,s 1, eff. 7/1/2016.
Added by 2015 Tenn. Acts, ch. 307,s 1, eff. 4/24/2015.
2023 Tennessee Code › Title 55 - MOTOR AND OTHER VEHICLES (§§ 55-1-101 — 55-53-105) › Chapter 8 - OPERATION OF VEHICLES - RULES OF THE ROAD (§§ 55-8-101 — 55-8-307) › Part 2 - OPERATION OF VEHICLES - RULES OF THE ROAD - CONTINUED (§§ 55-8-NEW — 55-8-212) › Section 55-8-204 - "Slow Poke Law."

(a)
On interstate and multilane divided highways that are two (2) or more lanes in each direction, a person shall not operate a vehicle in the passing lane, except when overtaking or passing a vehicle that is in a nonpassing lane.
(b)
This section shall not apply:
(1)
When the volume of traffic does not permit the vehicle to safely merge into a nonpassing lane;
(2)
When inclement weather or an official traffic control device makes it necessary to drive in the passing lane;
(3)
When obstructions or hazards exist in a nonpassing lane;
(4)
When avoiding traffic moving onto the highway from an acceleration or merging lane;
(5)
When highway design makes it necessary to drive in the passing lane to exit or turn left;
(6)
To authorized emergency vehicles engaged in official duties; or
(7)
To vehicles engaged in highway maintenance and construction operations.
(c)
The department of transportation is authorized to use the department's existing permanent electronic overhead informational displays located on the interstate system to provide periodic messages to the motoring public as to this section, including the restriction on the left lane being used as a passing lane only. The department may develop guidelines for the content, length, and frequency of any message to be placed on the displays.
(d)
A violation of this section is a Class C misdemeanor punishable by a fine only of fifty dollars ($50.00).
(e)
As used in this section:
(1)
"Nonpassing lane" means any lane that is to the right of the passing lane; and
(2)
"Passing lane" means:
(A)
The furthermost left lane; or
(B)
The lane immediately to the right of the furthermost left lane, during the specified hours of specified days of the week when the furthermost left lane is reserved for the exclusive use of high occupancy vehicles pursuant to §
55-8-188
.
Amended by 2020 Tenn. Acts, ch. 598, s 1, eff. 7/1/2020.
Added by 2016 Tenn. Acts, ch. 842, s 2, eff. 7/1/2016.
2023 Tennessee Code › Title 55 - MOTOR AND OTHER VEHICLES (§§ 55-1-101 — 55-53-105) › Chapter 8 - OPERATION OF VEHICLES - RULES OF THE ROAD (§§ 55-8-101 — 55-8-307) › Part 2 - OPERATION OF VEHICLES - RULES OF THE ROAD - CONTINUED (§§ 55-8-NEW — 55-8-212) › Section 55-8-205 - Vehicular use of bicycle lanes prohibited - Penalties

(a)
As used in this section, "bicycle lane" means any portion of the roadway set aside for the exclusive use of bicycles.
(b)
It is an offense for a person to operate a motor vehicle within a bicycle lane, except under the following situations:
(1)
When parking, stopping, or leaving standing the motor vehicle pursuant to §
55-8-158
, §
55-8-160
, or other law, upon the right side of the roadway or the roadway's shoulder or berm; provided, that a carrier of passengers for hire or other motor vehicle used to provide public transportation may only be parked, stopped, or left standing within a bicycle lane temporarily when loading or unloading passengers and when the area adjacent to the right-hand edge or curb of the roadway that is otherwise designated or primarily used to load or unload passengers is obstructed;
(2)
When turning into an intersecting or adjoining highway, drive, road, or driveway; or
(3)
When yielding the right-of-way to, or temporarily parking or stopping upon the approach of, an authorized emergency vehicle or police vehicle pursuant to §
55-8-132
or other law.
(c)
Any person failing to conform with subsection (b) shall receive a warning citation on first offense and be liable for a fine of twenty dollars ($20.00) on second offense, and fifty dollars ($50.00) on third and subsequent offenses.
(d)
Nothing in this section preempts or otherwise affects an ordinance or resolution governing the parking, stopping, or standing of motor vehicles in bicycle lanes that is more restrictive than subdivision (b)(1), whether enacted or modified prior to, or on or after, July 1, 2016, by a municipality or county, including a county with a metropolitan form of government.
Added by 2016 Tenn. Acts, ch. 944, s 1, eff. 7/1/2016.
2023 Tennessee Code › Title 55 - MOTOR AND OTHER VEHICLES (§§ 55-1-101 — 55-53-105) › Chapter 8 - OPERATION OF VEHICLES - RULES OF THE ROAD (§§ 55-8-101 — 55-8-307) › Part 2 - OPERATION OF VEHICLES - RULES OF THE ROAD - CONTINUED (§§ 55-8-NEW — 55-8-212) › Section 55-8-206 - Guidelines for best behavior during traffic stops

(a)
Within six (6) months from May 2, 2017, the department of safety, in consultation with state and local law enforcement agencies, shall develop advisory guidelines concerning best behaviors for drivers to exercise when stopped by law enforcement officers.
(b)
After the advisory guidelines are completed and approved by the commissioner, the department of education shall make the advisory guidelines an integral part of driver education in this state.
(c)
These advisory guidelines shall be promoted to the public, as the department deems fit, to increase awareness and public safety.
(d)
Law enforcement officers shall be trained that citizens may, but are not required to, follow the advisory guidelines established pursuant to this section, and that citizens shall not be liable for any civil damages or subject to any other liability or action for any failure to comply with these guidelines.
Added by 2017 Tenn. Acts, ch. 252,s 1, eff. 5/2/2017.
2023 Tennessee Code › Title 55 - MOTOR AND OTHER VEHICLES (§§ 55-1-101 — 55-53-105) › Chapter 8 - OPERATION OF VEHICLES - RULES OF THE ROAD (§§ 55-8-101 — 55-8-307) › Part 2 - OPERATION OF VEHICLES - RULES OF THE ROAD - CONTINUED (§§ 55-8-NEW — 55-8-212) › Section 55-8-207 - Removal of points charged for speeding conviction upon completion of defensive driving course

A person who is charged with speeding and subsequently convicted and who successfully completes a department-approved defensive driving course within ninety (90) days of the conviction shall have the points charged to the person's driving record for the speeding conviction removed; provided, that five (5) points is the maximum number of points that may be removed from the person's driving record. This section may be applied to only one (1) speeding offense for each driving course completed and only once in a four-year period.
Added by 2022 Tenn. Acts, ch. 710,s 1, eff. 7/1/2022.
2023 Tennessee Code › Title 55 - MOTOR AND OTHER VEHICLES (§§ 55-1-101 — 55-53-105) › Chapter 8 - OPERATION OF VEHICLES - RULES OF THE ROAD (§§ 55-8-101 — 55-8-307) › Part 2 - OPERATION OF VEHICLES - RULES OF THE ROAD - CONTINUED (§§ 55-8-NEW — 55-8-212) › Section 55-8-208 - Regulation of use and operation of electric scooter

Section
55-8-302
applies to an electric scooter and any person operating an electric scooter, including an exclusion from chapters 3 and 4 of this title, relating to titling and registration. Nothing in this section or §
55-8-302
preempts a county, municipality, or metropolitan form of government, by ordinance of its legislative body, from regulating, controlling, or banning the use and operation of electric scooters within the geographic boundaries of the county, municipality, or metropolitan government. The ordinances must be reasonably related to promotion and protection of the health, safety, and welfare of riders, operators, pedestrians, and motorists.
Added by 2019 Tenn. Acts, ch. 388, s 5, eff. 7/1/2019.
2023 Tennessee Code › Title 55 - MOTOR AND OTHER VEHICLES (§§ 55-1-101 — 55-53-105) › Chapter 8 - OPERATION OF VEHICLES - RULES OF THE ROAD (§§ 55-8-101 — 55-8-307) › Part 2 - OPERATION OF VEHICLES - RULES OF THE ROAD - CONTINUED (§§ 55-8-NEW — 55-8-212) › Section 55-8-209 - Regulation of use and operation of personal delivery device

(a)
A personal delivery device must:
(1)
Yield or not obstruct the right-of-way to all other traffic, including pedestrians;
(2)
Not unreasonably interfere with other traffic, including pedestrians;
(3)
If the personal delivery device is being operated between sunset and sunrise, be equipped with lighting on both the front and rear of the personal delivery device visible in clear weather from a distance of at least five hundred feet (500') to the front and rear of the personal delivery device; and
(4)
Not transport hazardous materials regulated under the Hazardous Materials Transportation Act (
49 U.S.C. § 5103
) that are required to be placarded under 49 CFR Part 172 , Subpart F.
(b)
A personal delivery device may be operated in a pedestrian area at speeds up to ten (10) miles per hour.
(c)
A personal delivery device must:
(1)
Be equipped with a marker that clearly states the name and contact information of the owner and a unique identification number; and
(2)
Be equipped with a braking system that enables the device to come to a controlled stop.
(d)
A personal delivery device and any entity that operates a personal delivery device is not subject to any requirements or laws applicable to motor vehicles, including the Tennessee Financial Responsibility Law of 1977, compiled in chapter 12, part 1 of this title; the Uniform Classified and Commercial Driver License Act of 1988, compiled in chapter 50 of this title; and chapters 3 and 4 of this title, relating to titling and registration.
(e)
Personal delivery devices may be prohibited by local resolutions or ordinances if the local government determines that the prohibition is necessary, in the interest of public safety. This section does not affect the authority of a local authority's law enforcement officers to enforce the laws of this state relating to the operation of a personal delivery device.
(f)
An entity that operates a personal delivery device must maintain an insurance policy that includes general liability coverage of not less than one hundred thousand dollars ($100,000) for damages arising from the combined operations of personal delivery devices under a personal delivery device operator's control.
Acts 2020, ch. 685, § 5.
2023 Tennessee Code › Title 55 - MOTOR AND OTHER VEHICLES (§§ 55-1-101 — 55-53-105) › Chapter 8 - OPERATION OF VEHICLES - RULES OF THE ROAD (§§ 55-8-101 — 55-8-307) › Part 2 - OPERATION OF VEHICLES - RULES OF THE ROAD - CONTINUED (§§ 55-8-NEW — 55-8-212) › Section 55-8-210 - Operation of golf cart on public roadway within boundaries of retail and entertainment district

(a)
As used in this section, "retail and entertainment district" means an area that meets the geographical description set forth in §
57-4-102(29)(D)(ii)
(b)
.
(b)
The governing body of any municipality having a population of not less than one hundred sixty-six thousand seven hundred (166,700) and not more than one hundred sixty-six thousand eight hundred (166,800), according to the 2020 and any subsequent federal census, may authorize and regulate the operation of a golf cart on any public roadway within the boundaries of a retail and entertainment district that is not a part of the interstate and national defense highway system, when the roadway is closed to motor vehicular traffic, upon the governing body of the municipality adopting an ordinance by a two-thirds (2/3) vote specifying each roadway that is open for golf cart use. The municipality shall provide written notification to the department of safety prior to such ordinance becoming effective.
(c)
The ordinance must require that a golf cart operated on a designated public roadway:
(1)
Be issued a permit for the golf cart by the municipality; and
(2)
Display a sticker or permit that identifies that the golf cart is allowed to be operated on specific roadways closed to motor vehicular traffic within the boundaries of the retail and entertainment district.
(d)
Following the adoption of such an ordinance, a person who owns, operates, or is employed by a business establishment located within or adjacent to the retail and entertainment district may operate a golf cart on a public roadway closed to motor vehicular traffic pursuant to subsection (b) if:
(1)
The posted speed limit of the designated public roadway is thirty-five miles per hour (35 mph) or less;
(2)
The operator of the golf cart does not cross a roadway having a posted speed limit of more than thirty-five miles per hour (35 mph);
(3)
The golf cart is being operated between one-half (1/2) hour after sunrise and one-half (1/2) hour before sunset;
(4)
The operator and any passengers in the front seat are restrained by a safety belt at all times the golf cart is in forward motion;
(5)
The golf cart is equipped with the following:
(A)
Headlights;
(B)
A tail lamp, stop lights, and reflectors or an emblem or placard for slow-moving vehicles;
(C)
A mirror; and
(D)
Brakes;
(6)
The headlights of the golf cart are displayed during operation; and
(7)
The driver possesses a valid driver license.
(e)
Any person operating a golf cart on a public roadway closed to motor vehicular traffic under this section is subject to this chapter.
(f)
This section does not apply to a golf cart that is not used on a public roadway except to cross a roadway while following a golf cart path on a golf course.
Added by 2022 Tenn. Acts, ch. 772, s 1, eff. 7/1/2022.
2023 Tennessee Code › Title 55 - MOTOR AND OTHER VEHICLES (§§ 55-1-101 — 55-53-105) › Chapter 8 - OPERATION OF VEHICLES - RULES OF THE ROAD (§§ 55-8-101 — 55-8-307) › Part 2 - OPERATION OF VEHICLES - RULES OF THE ROAD - CONTINUED (§§ 55-8-NEW — 55-8-212) › Section 55-8-211 - Informational material on how to interact with law enforcement when person is being pulled over

The department of safety, in consultation with local law enforcement agencies, shall produce informational material on how to interact with law enforcement when a person is being pulled over. This information may include, but is not limited to, the following:
(1)
What a law enforcement vehicle will look like;
(2)
How a law enforcement vehicle will act when stopping a person;
(3)
How a person being stopped can verify the vehicle is operated by a law enforcement officer; and
(4)
How a person may proceed if the person wants to travel to a safer location for the traffic stop.
Added by 2022 Tenn. Acts, ch. 820,s 1, eff. 10/1/2022.
2023 Tennessee Code › Title 55 - MOTOR AND OTHER VEHICLES (§§ 55-1-101 — 55-53-105) › Chapter 8 - OPERATION OF VEHICLES - RULES OF THE ROAD (§§ 55-8-101 — 55-8-307) › Part 2 - OPERATION OF VEHICLES - RULES OF THE ROAD - CONTINUED (§§ 55-8-NEW — 55-8-212) › Section 55-8-212 - Unlawful camping

(a)
It is unlawful for a person to engage in camping:
(1)
On the shoulder, berm, or right-of-way of a state or interstate highway; or
(2)
Under a bridge or overpass, or within an underpass, of a state or interstate highway.
(b)
Notwithstanding §
39-14-414
, a violation of this section is a Class C misdemeanor, punishable only by a fine of fifty dollars ($50.00) and community service work not less than twenty (20) hours nor more than forty (40) hours; except, that a person who violates this section must receive a warning citation for a first offense. In lieu of a fine and community service, the court may require a person convicted under this section to remove litter from the state or local highway system, public playgrounds, public parks, or other appropriate public locations for not less than twenty (20) hours nor more than forty (40) hours.
(c)
For purposes of this section, "camping" means:
(1)
Erecting, placing, maintaining, or using temporary structures, such as tents, tarps, and other temporary shelters, for living accommodation activities, such as sleeping or making preparations to sleep;
(2)
Carrying on cooking activities, whether by fire or use of artificial means, such as a propane stove or other heat-producing portable cooking equipment; or
(3)
Sleeping outside of a motor vehicle or making preparations to sleep outside of a motor vehicle, including laying down a sleeping bag, blanket, or other material used for bedding.
Added by 2022 Tenn. Acts, ch. 986, s 1, eff. 7/1/2022.
2023 Tennessee Code › Title 55 - MOTOR AND OTHER VEHICLES (§§ 55-1-101 — 55-53-105) › Chapter 8 - OPERATION OF VEHICLES - RULES OF THE ROAD (§§ 55-8-101 — 55-8-307) › Part 3 - ELECTRIC BICYCLES (§§ 55-8-301 — 55-8-307) › Section 55-8-301 - Part definitions

As used in this part:
(1)
"Class 1 electric bicycle" means an electric bicycle equipped with a motor that provides assistance only when the rider is pedaling, and that ceases to provide assistance when the bicycle reaches the speed of twenty miles per hour (20 mph);
(2)
"Class 2 electric bicycle" means an electric bicycle equipped with a motor that may be used exclusively to propel the bicycle, and that is not capable of providing assistance when the bicycle reaches the speed of twenty miles per hour (20 mph);
(3)
"Class 3 electric bicycle" means an electric bicycle equipped with a motor that provides assistance only when the rider is pedaling, and that ceases to provide assistance when the bicycle reaches the speed of twenty-eight miles per hour (28 mph); and
(4)
"Electric bicycle" means a device upon which any person may ride that is equipped with two (2) or three (3) wheels, any of which is twenty inches (20") or more in diameter, fully operable pedals for human propulsion, and an electric motor of less than seven hundred fifty (750) watts, and meets the requirements of one (1) of the three (3) classes of electric bicycles defined in subdivision (1), (2), or (3).
Added by 2016 Tenn. Acts, ch. 823,s 2, eff. 7/1/2016.
2023 Tennessee Code › Title 55 - MOTOR AND OTHER VEHICLES (§§ 55-1-101 — 55-53-105) › Chapter 8 - OPERATION OF VEHICLES - RULES OF THE ROAD (§§ 55-8-101 — 55-8-307) › Part 3 - ELECTRIC BICYCLES (§§ 55-8-301 — 55-8-307) › Section 55-8-302 - Requirements and laws applicable to electric bicycles

An electric bicycle and any person operating an electric bicycle is not subject to any requirements or laws applicable to motor vehicles, including the Tennessee Financial Responsibility Law of 1977, compiled in chapter 12, part 1 of this title; the Uniform Classified and Commercial Driver License Act of 1988, compiled in chapter 50 of this title; and chapters 3 and 4 of this title, relating to titling and registration. Except as otherwise specified by this part, the requirements and laws applicable to bicycles in this title shall apply to electric bicycles.
Added by 2016 Tenn. Acts, ch. 823,s 3, eff. 7/1/2016.
2023 Tennessee Code › Title 55 - MOTOR AND OTHER VEHICLES (§§ 55-1-101 — 55-53-105) › Chapter 8 - OPERATION OF VEHICLES - RULES OF THE ROAD (§§ 55-8-101 — 55-8-307) › Part 3 - ELECTRIC BICYCLES (§§ 55-8-301 — 55-8-307) › Section 55-8-303 - Label

(a)
On or after January 1, 2017, every manufacturer or distributor of new electric bicycles intended for sale or distribution in this state shall permanently affix, in a prominent location, to the electric bicycle a label that contains the classification number, top assisted speed, and motor wattage of the electric bicycle, and is printed in Arial font in at least nine-point type.
(b)
On or after January 1, 2017, no new electric bicycle shall be sold to the general public in this state unless a label is affixed to the electric bicycle pursuant to subsection (a).
(c)
A violation of subsection (a) or (b) is an unfair and deceptive act or practice under the Tennessee Consumer Protection Act of 1977, compiled in title 47, chapter 18, part 1.
Added by 2016 Tenn. Acts, ch. 823,s 4, eff. 7/1/2016.
2023 Tennessee Code › Title 55 - MOTOR AND OTHER VEHICLES (§§ 55-1-101 — 55-53-105) › Chapter 8 - OPERATION OF VEHICLES - RULES OF THE ROAD (§§ 55-8-101 — 55-8-307) › Part 3 - ELECTRIC BICYCLES (§§ 55-8-301 — 55-8-307) › Section 55-8-304 - Unlawful modification of electric bicycle

It is an offense for a person to knowingly modify an electric bicycle so as to change the speed capability of the electric bicycle and not appropriately replace, or cause to be replaced, the label indicating the classification required in §
55-8-303
. A violation of this section is a Class C misdemeanor.
Added by 2016 Tenn. Acts, ch. 823, s 5, eff. 7/1/2016.
2023 Tennessee Code › Title 55 - MOTOR AND OTHER VEHICLES (§§ 55-1-101 — 55-53-105) › Chapter 8 - OPERATION OF VEHICLES - RULES OF THE ROAD (§§ 55-8-101 — 55-8-307) › Part 3 - ELECTRIC BICYCLES (§§ 55-8-301 — 55-8-307) › Section 55-8-305 - Equipment requirements

(a)
No electric bicycle shall be operated upon any street or highway unless the electric bicycle:
(1)
Complies with applicable equipment and manufacturing requirements for electric bicycles established by state and federal law, including federal standards adopted by the United States consumer product safety commission and compiled in 16 CFR Part 1512 ; and
(2)
Is equipped in such a manner that the electric motor is disengaged or ceases to function when the brakes are applied, or that the electric motor is engaged through a switch or mechanism that, when released or activated, will cause the electric motor to disengage or cease to function.
(b)
No class 3 electric bicycle shall be operated upon any street or highway unless it is equipped with a speedometer that displays the speed the electric bicycle is traveling in miles per hour.
(c)
A person who knowingly operates an electric bicycle in violation of subsection (a) or (b) commits a Class C misdemeanor.
Added by 2016 Tenn. Acts, ch. 823, s 6, eff. 7/1/2016.
2023 Tennessee Code › Title 55 - MOTOR AND OTHER VEHICLES (§§ 55-1-101 — 55-53-105) › Chapter 8 - OPERATION OF VEHICLES - RULES OF THE ROAD (§§ 55-8-101 — 55-8-307) › Part 3 - ELECTRIC BICYCLES (§§ 55-8-301 — 55-8-307) › Section 55-8-306 - Operation of electric bicycle on street or highway or path or trail

(a)
(1)
A class 1 electric bicycle or a class 2 electric bicycle may be operated on any part of a street or highway where bicycles are authorized to travel, including a bicycle lane or other portion of a roadway designated for exclusive use by bicyclists, the shoulder or berm, and any path or trail intended for use by bicyclists.
(2)
A local government or state agency having jurisdiction over any part of any path or trail where bicycles are authorized to travel may regulate or prohibit, by resolution or ordinance if a local government or by rule or policy if a state agency, the operation of a class 1 electric bicycle or class 2 electric bicycle on that path or trail, if the local government or state agency determines that the regulation or prohibition is necessary, in the interest of public safety.
(3)
No class 3 electric bicycle shall be operated on any part of a path or trail where bicycles are authorized to travel, unless the path or trail is within or adjacent to the street or highway, or the local governing body or state agency having jurisdiction over the path or trail permits, by resolution or ordinance if a local government or by rule or policy if a state agency, the operation of a class 3 electric bicycle on that path or trail.
(4)
No electric bicycle shall be operated on any sidewalk unless the use of bicycles on sidewalks is authorized by resolution or ordinance if a local government or by rule or policy if a state agency, of the local government or state agency having jurisdiction over that sidewalk, and the electric motor is disabled.
(5)
Any local resolution or ordinance or state agency rule or policy adopted in accordance with this subsection (a) shall use the definitions in this part for electric bicycle, class 1 electric bicycle, class 2 electric bicycle, or class 3 electric bicycle. References to motor vehicles in any local resolution or ordinance shall not be applicable to an electric bicycle.
(6)
A person who knowingly operates an electric bicycle in violation of subdivision (a)(3) or (a)(4) commits a Class C misdemeanor.
(b)
On any roadway, highway, or street, electric bicycles shall be restricted, limited, or excluded by local resolutions and ordinances to the same extent as bicycles are restricted, limited, or excluded.
Added by 2016 Tenn. Acts, ch. 823,s 7, eff. 7/1/2016.
2023 Tennessee Code › Title 55 - MOTOR AND OTHER VEHICLES (§§ 55-1-101 — 55-53-105) › Chapter 8 - OPERATION OF VEHICLES - RULES OF THE ROAD (§§ 55-8-101 — 55-8-307) › Part 3 - ELECTRIC BICYCLES (§§ 55-8-301 — 55-8-307) › Section 55-8-307 - Prohibited operation of class 3 electric bicycle by person under 14 years of age - Helmet requirements

(a)
It is a delinquent act for a person under fourteen (14) years of age to operate a class 3 electric bicycle upon any street or highway; provided, that the person may ride as a passenger on a class 3 electric bicycle that is designed to accommodate passengers.
(b)
The operator and all passengers of a class 3 electric bicycle, regardless of age, shall wear a properly fitted and fastened bicycle helmet meeting federal standards established by the United States consumer product safety commission or the American Society for Testing and Materials. A label on the helmet shall be affixed signifying the helmet complies with this subsection (b).
(c)
(1)
A violation of subsection (a) shall be punishable only by a fine not to exceed fifty dollars ($50.00).
(2)
A person who violates subsection (b) commits a Class C misdemeanor.
Added by 2016 Tenn. Acts, ch. 823,s 8, eff. 7/1/2016.
2023 Tennessee Code › Title 55 - MOTOR AND OTHER VEHICLES (§§ 55-1-101 — 55-53-105) › Chapter 9 - EQUIPMENT - LIGHTING REGULATIONS (§§ 55-9-101 — 55-9-610) › Part 1 - GENERAL PROVISIONS (§§ 55-9-101 — 55-9-108) › Section 55-9-101 - Chapter definitions

As used in this chapter:
(1)
"Autocycle," "motor vehicle," "motorcycle," "motor-driven cycle," and "motorized bicycle" have the meanings ascribed to them in §
55-8-101
; and
(2)
"Automated driving system," "ADS," and "ADS-operated vehicle" have the meanings ascribed to them in §
55-30-102
.
Amended by 2023 Tenn. Acts, ch. 100, s 5, eff. 7/1/2024.
Amended by 2017 Tenn. Acts, ch. 474, s 5, eff. 6/6/2017.
Acts 1979, ch. 247, § 7; T.C.A., § 59-942; Acts 1986, ch. 804, § 4.
2023 Tennessee Code › Title 55 - MOTOR AND OTHER VEHICLES (§§ 55-1-101 — 55-53-105) › Chapter 9 - EQUIPMENT - LIGHTING REGULATIONS (§§ 55-9-101 — 55-9-610) › Part 1 - GENERAL PROVISIONS (§§ 55-9-101 — 55-9-108) › Section 55-9-104 - Vehicles stopping for causes other than disablement - Display of warning devices

(a)
Whenever any bus, truck or truck tractor is stopped upon the traveled portion of the highway or the shoulder next thereto, except within a business or residential district of a municipality or for any cause other than disablement or for necessary traffic stops, the following requirements shall be complied with during the period of the stop:
(1)
During the time that lights are required, a lighted fusee or lighted red electric lantern or red emergency reflector shall be immediately placed on the roadway at the traffic side of the motor vehicle. Pickup trucks having not more than two (2) rear wheels may comply with this subdivision (a)(1) by displaying emergency flashing lights at the front and rear; and
(2)
If the stop exceeds or is intended to exceed ten (10) minutes, the placing of flares, red electric lanterns or red emergency reflectors or flags shall be in the manner prescribed for disabled vehicles. Pickup trucks having not more than two (2) rear wheels may comply with this subdivision (a)(2) by displaying emergency flashing lights at the front and rear.
(b)
Except during the time that lights are required to be displayed by §
55-9-401
, none of the provisions of this chapter that relate to fire extinguishers, red lanterns, red flags, tire chains, flares, and fusees, shall apply to trucks and pickup trucks owned and operated by any person in the transportation of produce and farm products grown exclusively by that person in transporting them to and from market.
Acts 1937 (2nd Ex. Sess.), ch. 12, § 1; 1947, ch. 121, § 1; C. Supp. 1950, § 2700.16 (Williams, § 2695); Acts 1975, ch. 89, §§ 1, 2; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 59-920.
2023 Tennessee Code › Title 55 - MOTOR AND OTHER VEHICLES (§§ 55-1-101 — 55-53-105) › Chapter 9 - EQUIPMENT - LIGHTING REGULATIONS (§§ 55-9-101 — 55-9-610) › Part 1 - GENERAL PROVISIONS (§§ 55-9-101 — 55-9-108) › Section 55-9-106 - Studded tires

(a)
No person shall use a tire on a vehicle moved on a highway that has on its periphery any block, stud, flange, cleat, or spike or any other protuberances of a material other than rubber that projects beyond the tread of the traction surface of the tire, except as otherwise provided in this section.
(b)
A person may operate on a highway a vehicle equipped with a tire that has imbedded in it wire or other material for improving traction on snow and ice during the period of October 1 through April 15 of each year. Such a tire shall be so constructed that the percentage of wire or other material in contact with the roadway does not exceed, after the first one thousand (1,000) miles of use or operation, five percent (5%) of the total tire area in contact with the roadway. During the first one thousand (1,000) miles of use or operation of any such tire, the wire or other material in contact with the roadway shall not exceed twenty percent (20%) of the total tire area in contact with the roadway. The studded tires allowed by this subsection (b) shall not be used at any time on a vehicle with a maximum gross weight of more than nine thousand pounds (9,000 lbs.), unless this a vehicle is a school bus or an emergency vehicle.
(c)
It is permissible to use tire chains of reasonable proportions on any vehicle when required for safety because of snow, ice, or other condition tending to cause a vehicle to skid.
(d)
It is permissible to use farm machinery with tires having protuberances that will not injure a highway.
Acts 1982, ch. 856, § 1.
2023 Tennessee Code › Title 55 - MOTOR AND OTHER VEHICLES (§§ 55-1-101 — 55-53-105) › Chapter 9 - EQUIPMENT - LIGHTING REGULATIONS (§§ 55-9-101 — 55-9-610) › Part 1 - GENERAL PROVISIONS (§§ 55-9-101 — 55-9-108) › Section 55-9-108 - Airbags

(a)
For purposes of this section:
(1)
"Airbag" means a motor vehicle inflatable occupant restraint system device that is part of a supplemental restraint system;
(2)
"Counterfeit supplemental restraint system component" means a replacement supplemental restraint system component, including, but not limited to, an airbag, that displays a mark identical to, or substantially similar to, the genuine mark of a motor vehicle manufacturer or a supplier of parts to the manufacturer of a motor vehicle without authorization from that manufacturer or supplier, respectively;
(3)
"Nonfunctional airbag" means a replacement airbag that meets any of the following criteria:
(A)
The airbag was previously deployed or damaged;
(B)
The airbag has an electric fault that is detected by the vehicle's airbag diagnostic systems when the installation procedure is completed and the vehicle is returned to the customer who requested the work to be performed or when ownership is intended to be transferred;
(C)
The airbag includes a part or object, including a supplemental restraint system component, that is installed in a motor vehicle to mislead the owner or operator of the motor vehicle into believing that a functional airbag has been installed; or
(D)
The airbag is subject to the prohibitions of
49 U.S.C. § 30120(j)
; and
(4)
"Supplemental restraint system" ("SRS"):
(A)
Means a passive inflatable motor vehicle occupant crash protection system designed for use in conjunction with active restraint systems, as defined in
49 CFR 571.208
; and
(B)
Includes one (1) or more airbags and all components required to ensure that an airbag works as designed by the vehicle manufacturer, including both of the following:
(i)
The airbag operates in the event of a crash; and
(ii)
The airbag is designed in accordance with federal motor vehicle safety standards of the specific make, model, and year of the motor vehicle in which it is or will be installed.
(b)
A person shall not knowingly manufacture, import, install, reinstall, distribute, sell, or offer for sale any device intended to replace a supplemental restraint system component in any motor vehicle if the device is a counterfeit supplemental restraint system component, nonfunctional airbag, or device that does not meet federal motor vehicle safety standards as provided in
49 CFR 571.208
.
(c)
A person shall not knowingly sell, install, or reinstall in a vehicle, any device that causes the vehicle's diagnostic systems to fail to warn when the vehicle is equipped with a counterfeit supplemental restraint system component or nonfunctional airbag, or when no airbag is installed.
(d)
A violation of this section is a Class A misdemeanor.
Amended by 2018 Tenn. Acts, ch. 748,s 1, eff. 7/1/2018.
Acts 2003, ch. 160, § 1.
2023 Tennessee Code › Title 55 - MOTOR AND OTHER VEHICLES (§§ 55-1-101 — 55-53-105) › Chapter 9 - EQUIPMENT - LIGHTING REGULATIONS (§§ 55-9-101 — 55-9-610) › Part 2 - REQUIRED EQUIPMENT ON VEHICLES (§§ 55-9-201 — 55-9-218) › Section 55-9-202 - Mufflers - Muffler cutouts prohibited - Penalty

(a)
It is unlawful for a person to drive a motor vehicle on a road, street, or highway if the motor vehicle is not equipped with a muffler in good working order and in constant operation. A motor vehicle's muffler is deemed to be not in good working order or in constant operation if the motor vehicle produces excessive or unusual noise or annoying smoke.
(b)
It is unlawful to use a "muffler cutout" on any motor vehicle upon any road, street or highway.
(c)
This section does not apply to farm tractors or implements of husbandry, as those terms are defined in §
55-8-101
.
(d)
For purposes of this section, "excessive or unusual noise" includes motor noise emitted by a motor vehicle, other than a motorcycle, that is noticeably louder than similar vehicles in the environment and a sound pressure level in excess of ninety-five decibels (95 dB).
(e)
It is a defense to prosecution regarding excessive or unusual noise if the person provides satisfactory evidence that the vehicle's muffler does not emit noise in excess of ninety-five decibels (95 dB) as measured in accordance with applicable standards and specifications outlined by the Society of Automotive Engineers.
(f)
A violation of this section is a Class C misdemeanor.
Amended by 2023 Tenn. Acts, ch. 164, s 2, eff. 7/1/2023.
Amended by 2023 Tenn. Acts, ch. 164, s 1, eff. 7/1/2023.
Acts 1931, ch. 82, § 14; C. Supp. 1950, § 2700.15 (Williams, § 2694); T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 59-902; Acts 1989, ch. 591, § 113.
2023 Tennessee Code › Title 55 - MOTOR AND OTHER VEHICLES (§§ 55-1-101 — 55-53-105) › Chapter 9 - EQUIPMENT - LIGHTING REGULATIONS (§§ 55-9-101 — 55-9-610) › Part 2 - REQUIRED EQUIPMENT ON VEHICLES (§§ 55-9-201 — 55-9-218) › Section 55-9-203 - Windshield must be equipped with wipers - Penalty

(a)
Every motor vehicle having a windshield shall be equipped with two (2) windshield wipers for cleaning rain, snow or other moisture from the windshield in order to provide clear vision for the driver, unless one (1) windshield wiper cleans to within one inch (1") of each side of windshield.
(b)
A violation of this section is a Class C misdemeanor.
Acts 1941, ch. 121, § 1; C. Supp. 1950, § 2700.16 (Williams, § 2695); Acts 1973, ch. 326, § 1; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 59-903; Acts 1989, ch. 591, § 113.
2023 Tennessee Code › Title 55 - MOTOR AND OTHER VEHICLES (§§ 55-1-101 — 55-53-105) › Chapter 9 - EQUIPMENT - LIGHTING REGULATIONS (§§ 55-9-101 — 55-9-610) › Part 2 - REQUIRED EQUIPMENT ON VEHICLES (§§ 55-9-201 — 55-9-218) › Section 55-9-205 - Performance ability of brakes - Penalty

(a)
The service brakes upon any motor vehicle or combination of vehicles shall be adequate to stop the vehicle or vehicles when traveling twenty miles per hour (20 mph) within a distance of thirty feet (30') when upon dry asphalt or concrete pavement surface free from loose material where the grade does not exceed one percent (1%).
(b)
Under the conditions in subsection (a), the hand brake shall be adequate to stop the vehicle or vehicles within a distance of fifty-five feet (55') and the hand brake shall be adequate to hold the vehicle or vehicles stationary on any grade upon which operated.
(c)
Under the conditions in subsection (a), the service brakes upon a motor vehicle equipped with two (2) wheel brakes only, and when permitted, shall be adequate to stop the vehicle within a distance of forty feet (40') and the hand brake adequate to stop the vehicle within a distance of fifty-five feet (55').
(d)
All braking distances specified in this section shall apply to all vehicles mentioned, whether the vehicles are not loaded or are loaded to the maximum capacity permitted under this chapter.
(e)
All brakes shall be maintained in good working order and shall be so adjusted as to operate as equally as practicable with respect to the wheels on opposite sides of the vehicle.
(f)
A violation of this section is a Class C misdemeanor.
Acts 1937, ch. 245, § 5; C. Supp. 1950, § 2700.16 (Williams, § 2695); T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 59-917; Acts 1989, ch. 591, § 113.
2023 Tennessee Code › Title 55 - MOTOR AND OTHER VEHICLES (§§ 55-1-101 — 55-53-105) › Chapter 9 - EQUIPMENT - LIGHTING REGULATIONS (§§ 55-9-101 — 55-9-610) › Part 2 - REQUIRED EQUIPMENT ON VEHICLES (§§ 55-9-201 — 55-9-218) › Section 55-9-206 - Trucks to be equipped with rearview mirror

Any motor truck using the streets, roads, highways, and other public thoroughfares, which, by reason of its construction, either when loaded or unloaded, prevents the driver's view of the rear, shall be equipped with a mirror arranged in a manner and maintained so that the driver or operator may view the roadway to the rear and note the approach of vehicles from the rear of the motor truck.
Acts 1923, ch. 53, § 1; Shan. Supp., § 1616a10; Code 1932, § 2709; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 59-921.
2023 Tennessee Code › Title 55 - MOTOR AND OTHER VEHICLES (§§ 55-1-101 — 55-53-105) › Chapter 9 - EQUIPMENT - LIGHTING REGULATIONS (§§ 55-9-101 — 55-9-610) › Part 2 - REQUIRED EQUIPMENT ON VEHICLES (§§ 55-9-201 — 55-9-218) › Section 55-9-207 - Penalty for operating truck without rearview mirror

Any person driving a motor truck without a rearview mirror, and the owner of the motor truck, operated upon any public thoroughfare, in violation of §
55-9-206
, commits a Class C misdemeanor.
Acts 1923, ch. 53, § 2; Shan. Supp., § 1616a11; Code 1932, § 2710; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 59-922; Acts 1989, ch. 591, § 113.
2023 Tennessee Code › Title 55 - MOTOR AND OTHER VEHICLES (§§ 55-1-101 — 55-53-105) › Chapter 9 - EQUIPMENT - LIGHTING REGULATIONS (§§ 55-9-101 — 55-9-610) › Part 2 - REQUIRED EQUIPMENT ON VEHICLES (§§ 55-9-201 — 55-9-218) › Section 55-9-212 - Mudguards on trucks - Penalty

(a)
No person shall operate upon a public highway or street any motor vehicle, including a separate truck tractor (normally used in a tractor-trailer combination), or combination of vehicles having a carrying capacity in excess of three thousand pounds (3,000 lbs.), if the motor vehicle or combination of vehicles is not equipped with rear fenders, mudflaps or mudguards of such size as to substantially prevent the projection of rocks, dirt, water or other substances to the rear. The fenders, flaps or guards shall be of a type approved by the commissioner of safety.
(b)
This section shall have no application to farm vehicles, or vehicles used by farmers to haul produce from farm to market, nor shall it apply to vehicles used exclusively for hauling logs.
(c)
A violation of this section is a Class C misdemeanor.
Acts 1955, ch. 227, §§ 1-3; 1973, ch. 326, § 7; T.C.A., § 59-928; Acts 1989, ch. 591, § 113.
2023 Tennessee Code › Title 55 - MOTOR AND OTHER VEHICLES (§§ 55-1-101 — 55-53-105) › Chapter 9 - EQUIPMENT - LIGHTING REGULATIONS (§§ 55-9-101 — 55-9-610) › Part 2 - REQUIRED EQUIPMENT ON VEHICLES (§§ 55-9-201 — 55-9-218) › Section 55-9-213 - Brake fluid - Minimum standards - Penalty

(a)
No person shall have for sale, sell or offer for sale for use in motor vehicle brake systems in this state any hydraulic brake fluid unless of a type or brand approved by the commissioner of safety. No hydraulic brake fluid shall be approved that does not meet the minimum standard of the Society of Automotive Engineers for heavy duty grade hydraulic fluid.
(b)
A violation of this section is a Class C misdemeanor.
Acts 1955, ch. 251, §§ 1, 2; T.C.A., § 59-929; Acts 1989, ch. 591, § 113.
2023 Tennessee Code › Title 55 - MOTOR AND OTHER VEHICLES (§§ 55-1-101 — 55-53-105) › Chapter 9 - EQUIPMENT - LIGHTING REGULATIONS (§§ 55-9-101 — 55-9-610) › Part 2 - REQUIRED EQUIPMENT ON VEHICLES (§§ 55-9-201 — 55-9-218) › Section 55-9-216 - Steering wheels - Penalty for violation

(a)
It is unlawful for anyone to install or maintain a steering wheel of less than twelve inches (12") in diameter in any motor vehicle operated upon any highway, street or public road of this state; provided, however, that this subsection (a) does not apply to any motor vehicle specially equipped for persons with disabilities or originally equipped with such a steering wheel by the original manufacturer of same.
(b)
Any person who violates this section shall be fined not less than twenty-five dollars ($25.00) nor more than fifty dollars ($50.00) for each violation.
Acts 1979, ch. 213, § 1; T.C.A., § 59-941; Acts 2011, ch. 47, § 58.