Amends TCA Title 54; Title 55, Chapter 1 and Title 55, Chapter 8.

This bill authorizes the operator of a motorcycle to overtake and pass a vehicle upon the right when operating on the shoulder or right-of-way of the highway solely for the purpose of proceeding to the nearest exit on interstate highways and limited access multilane divided highways where the posted speed limit is 50 mph or more if the speed of traffic moving in the same direction is 25 mph or less.<br /> <br /> This bill requires a person operating a vehicle on the main traveled way of the highway or right-of-way adjacent to or near a motorcycle operated pursuant to this bill, and the person operating the motorcycle, to exercise due care and obey all traffic laws, applicable rules of the road, and laws relating to the safe operation of the vehicle or motorcycle. This bill specifically prohibits a motorcycle from being operated on the shoulder or right-of-way pursuant to this bill at a rate exceeding 45 mph.<br /> <br /> Present law provides that the operation of a vehicle on the shoulder or right-of-way of a state highway other than a bus authorized by the department of transportation is an offense punishable as a Class C misdemeanor. This bill adds to the present law by providing that a motorcycle operated pursuant to this bill is also an exception to such offense.<br />