Relating to the applicability of certain pedestrian laws to certain sidewalk users.

Contracts

• Vendor Agreements (Couriers/Last-Mile): Update Master Services Agreements (MSAs) with bike/scooter courier services. Require vendors to certify their riders are trained on Texas Transportation Code Sec. 552.0035(c), specifically the prohibition on entering crosswalks at speeds exceeding 8 mph. This clause is essential to shift liability back to the vendor in the event of a collision.

Hiring/Training

• Driver Safety Protocols: Revise fleet safety manuals immediately. Drivers must be retrained to change their visual "scan pattern" at intersections and driveway exits to account for users moving at 15+ mph, not just walking speed.
• Exit Procedures: Enforce a "hard stop" policy for vehicles exiting alleys, driveways, or buildings before crossing the sidewalk threshold. Rolling stops now carry heightened negligence risks.

Reporting & Record-Keeping

• Accident Report Forms: Update internal incident reporting templates. Add a specific checkbox for "Sidewalk User" (distinct from "Pedestrian" or "Vehicle") to accurately track data for potential litigation defense.
• Training Logs: Maintain documented proof that all drivers have been briefed on the new definition of "Sidewalk User." This is your primary defense against "Failure to Train" allegations.

Fees & Costs

• Direct Costs: No new state fees or taxes.
• Operational Costs: Budget for approximately 1-2 hours of retraining per driver. Anticipate potential increases in commercial auto insurance premiums for fleets operating in high-density urban zones (Austin, Dallas, Houston).