CITY OF SEATTLE
ORDINANCE __________________
COUNCIL BILL __________________
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AN ORDINANCE related to the operation of open-air tour vehicles; creating a new Chapter 15.66 in the Seattle Municipal Code; and amending Sections 15.91.002 and 15.91.016 of the Seattle Municipal Code.
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WHEREAS, distracted driving by motorists poses a significant risk of injury or death to pedestrians, bicyclists, and other motorists; and
WHEREAS, the dangers of distracted driving are more likely to be magnified by the operation of an open-air tour vehicle where information and entertainment are shared through music, noise, interaction with passengers, as well as interaction with pedestrians; and
WHEREAS, narration and entertainment in an open-air tour vehicle also serve as a distraction to other drivers; and
WHEREAS, open-air tour vehicle drivers have increased responsibilities because of the potentially large number of passengers, large vehicle mass, and lack of side windows that increase the danger of serious injury to persons inside and outside of the vehicle in a collision; and
WHEREAS, prohibiting open-air tour vehicle drivers from conducting tour narration or entertainment while driving in the City will reduce distracted driving and advance traffic safety by reducing the likelihood of collisions and injuries caused by distracted driving; NOW, THEREFORE,
BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY OF SEATTLE AS FOLLOWS:
Section 1. Effective June 1, 2016, a new Chapter 15.66 is added to the Seattle Municipal Code as follows:
Chapter 15.66 TOUR VEHICLE OPERATION
15.66.010 Definitions
For purposes of this Chapter 15.66:
"Entertainment" means an in-person performance in a vehicle for the amusement of passengers or other observers that interferes with the driver's attention to driving. Examples include, but are not limited to, chanting; cheerleading; musical, comedic, or dramatic acts, routines, or recitations; dancing; athletics; or the act of donning or removing costumes.
"Open...
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