SISSETON-WAHPETON SIOUX TRIBE
CHAPTER 27
TRAFFIC CODE
27-01-01 GENERAL PROVISIONS: This Code shall apply to all persons within the jurisdiction of the Sisseton-Wahpeton Sioux Tribe.
27-02-01 DEFINITIONS
27-02-01 Authorized Emergency Vehicle - shall mean vehicles of the fire department, police vehicles, and such ambulances and other emergency vehicles designated or authorized as such.
27-02-02 Laned Roadway - shall mean a roadway which is divided into two or more clearly marked lanes for vehicular traffic.
27-02-03 Motor Vehicle - shall mean every vehicle which is
self-propelled.
27-02-04 Road or Highway - shall mean the entire width between the boundary lines of every way when any part thereof is open to the use of the public for purposes of vehicular travel.
27-02-05 Roadway - shall mean that portion of a highway improved, designed or ordinarily used for vehicular travel, exclusive of the berm or shoulder.
27-02-06 Vehicle - shall mean every device in, upon, or by which any person or property is or may be transported or drawn upon a highway, except devices moved by human power or used exclusively upon stationary rails or tracks.
27-02-07 Racing- is defined as the use of one or more vehicles in an attempt to outgain, outdistance, or prevent another vehicle from passing, to arrive at a destination ahead of another vehicle or vehicles.
27-03-01 ENFORCEMENT
The Sisseton-Wahpeton Sioux Tribal Police, shall be responsible for the
enforcement of all regulations, rules and controls as established in this
chapter.
27-04-01 STATUTE OF LIMITATIONS
No prosecution shall be maintained under this chapter unless the action shall
have been commenced within one (1) year after commission of the offense.
27-05-01 SPEED - REASONABLE AND PRUDENT
No person shall drive a vehicle on a highway at a speed greater than is
reasonable and prudent under existing road and traffic conditions. Speed shall
be so controlled as may be necessary to avoid collision with any person, vehicle
or other conveyance on or before entering the highway.
27-06-01 RESTRICTIONS
The following restrictions on speed of any vehicle are prescribed for roads and
highways of the Lake Traverse Reservation and any violation thereof shall be
unlawful.
27-06-02 BUSINESS, RESIDENTIAL, SCHOOL AREA
The maximum speed on any highway in business, residential, or school district
shall be 20 mph.
27-06-03 SCHOOL ZONE
The maximum speed when passing a school during recess or while the children are
going to or leaving school during opening and closing hours shall be 15 mph.
27-06-04 MAXIMUM SPEED
The maximum speed under circumstances other than those defined in 27-06-02 and
27-06-03 shall be 55 mph, or as otherwise posted.
27-07-01 PENALTIES
Any person that drives in an excess of the maximum speed limit, as provided in
this section, or though not driving in excess of such maximum speed limit,
drives at a speed greater than is reasonable under the condition existing shall
be penalized as provided in S.D.C.L.
27-08-01 SPEED LIMIT - WHEN NOT APPLICABLE
The speed limitation set forth in 27-06-02, 27-06-03 and shall not apply to
vehicles when operated with due regard for safety under the direction of a
Tribal Police Officer in the chase or apprehension of violators of the law, or
of persons charged with or suspected of any such violation, not to fire
departments when traveling in response to a fire alarm, or to public or private
ambulances when traveling in emergencies. This exemption shall not, however,
protect the driver of any such vehicles from the consequences of reckless
disregard of the safety of others.
27-09-01 UNREASONABLE SLOW SPEED PROHIBITED
No person shall drive a motor 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 the law. Violation of this section is a
Class F Misdemeanor.
27-10-01 SPEEDING ON HIGHWAY NOT ALLOWED
No person shall drive any vehicle in any race on a highway. A violation of this
section is a class C Misdemeanor.
27-11-01 RECKLESS DRIVING
Any person who drives any vehicle upon a highway carelessly and heedlessly in
disregard of the rights or safety of others, or without due caution and
circumspection and at a speed or in a manner as to endanger or likely to
endanger any person or property, shall be deemed guilty of a Class C
Misdemeanor.
27-12-01 EXHIBITION DRIVING
Any person who drives a vehicle within the jurisdiction of the Sisseton-Wahpeton
Tribal Court in such manner that creates or causes unnecessary engine noise or
tire squeal, skid or slide upon acceleration or stopping, or that simulates a
temporary race, or that causes the vehicle to unnecessary turn abruptly or away,
shall be deemed guilty of a Class D Misdemeanor.
27-13-01 OPEN CONTAINER
No person shall keep in a motor vehicle or have in his possession while in a
vehicle, a bottle or receptacle containing alcoholic beverages which has been
opened or the contents of which have been partly consumed. A violation of this
section shall be a Special Class Misdemeanor, but not to exceed a one hundred
($100. 00 ) dollar fine, with no jail time.
27-14-01 DRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF ALCOHOL OR DRUGS
No person shall drive or be in actual physical control of any motor vehicle if
there is either: An amount equal to .10 percent by weight of alcohol in his
blood, as measured by a blood, breath, urine or other reliable test.
27-14-02 INCAPABLE OF SAFE DRIVING
Under the influence of an alcoholic beverage to such a degree that he is
incapable of safe driving.
27-14-03 MARIJUANA OR CONTROLLED DRUGS
Under the influence of Marijuana or any controlled drugs as listed in the
Uniform Controlled Substance Act (21. U.S.C., 8-12) to such a degree that he is
incapable of safe driving.
27-14-04 COMBINATION OF ALCOHOL AND MARIJUANA
Under the influence of a combination of alcohol, marijuana, or any controlled
drug to such a degree that he is incapable of safe driving.
27-14-05 PENALTIES
For the purpose of this section, a mandatory jail sentence is one which must be
imposed by the Court. Nothing in this chapter shall be construed to prohibit
parole being granted on a mandatory sentence pursuant to Chapter 24, Section
24-05-01.
27-14-06 FIRST OFFENSE
$250.00, 30 days in jail, plus court costs
Mandatory 3 day jail time
Driving privileges restricted on reservation for 45 days
Attend DWUI Classes
27-14-07 SECOND OFFENSE
$360.00 fine, 30 days in jail, plus Court costs.
Mandatory 15 days in jail, can be released for work or school
Driving privileges restricted for 90 days
Attend DWUI Classes
27-14-08 THIRD OFFENSE
$500.00 fine, 6 months in jail, plus Court costs.
Mandatory 6 months in jail but can be released for work or school
Driving privileges restricted for 6 months after jail
Attend DWUI Classes.
27-14-09 Whenever possible, a person convicted of Third Offense Driving While Under the Influence of Alcohol or Drugs shall be allowed to participate in a residential chemical dependency treatment program. Credit toward jail time and/or parole time shall be granted on a day-for-day basis for all persons who satisfactorily complete such a program.
27-15-01 IMPLIED CONSENT ORDINANCE
Any person suspected of Driving Under the Influence, on the Lake Traverse
Reservation, shall be informed of their rights, including the suspension of
their driving privileges upon the refusal to submit to a chemical analysis of
blood, breath, or urine, for the purpose of determining the amount of alcohol
and drugs in their body. A person's refusal to take a chemical test of blood,
breath or urine can be used against them in Court at a trial.
27-16-01 WARNING TICKETS
Tribal Police Officers are authorized to issue a warning ticket to any driver
who is in violation of any provision of this chapter, excluding Driving While
Under the Influence.
27-17-01 CHEMICAL ANALYSIS - LIABILITY OF COSTS
Any person convicted of a violation or violations of any section in this Chapter
shall be liable for the cost of any scientific or chemical test used to
determine the amount of alcohol or other drugs in his body and shall be taxed as
costs against said convicted individual.
27-18-01 ACTION REQUIRED AT STOP SIGN
Except when directed to proceed by a police officer or traffic control signal,
every driver of a vehicle approaching a stop intersection indicated by a stop
line, but if none, before entering the crosswalk on the near side of the
intersection, or if none, then at the point nearest the intersecting roadway
where the driver has view of approaching traffic on the intersection roadway
before entering the intersection. Any person failing to come to a full stop as
specified in this section shall be deemed guilty of a Class F Misdemeanor.
27-19-01 RULES OF ROAD
Upon all highways of sufficient width, the driver of a vehicle shall drive upon
the right half of the highway, except when over taking or passing another
vehicle. Any person violating this section shall be deemed guilty of a Class G
Misdemeanor.
27-19-02 PASSING ONCOMING VEHICLES
Drivers of vehicles proceeding in opposite directions shall pass each other to
the right, each giving to the other at least one-half of the travel portion of
the roadway as nearly as possible. Any person violating this section, shall be
deemed guilty of a Class F Misdemeanor.
27-19-03 RIGHT OF WAY AT INTERSECTION
When two vehicles approach or enter an intersection at approximately the same
time, the driver
of the vehicle at the left shall yield the right-of-way to the vehicle on the
right. Any person
violating this section shall be deemed guilty of a Class G Misdemeanor.
27-19-04 YIELDING RIGHT OF WAY TO EMERGENCY VEHICLES
Any driver of a vehicle on a highway shall yield the right-of-way to police
officers, fire department vehicles and ambulances when such vehicles are
operated upon official business and the drivers thereof use appropriate signal
by siren, whistle, horn, and/or warning lights. Any person violating
this section will be deemed guilty of a Class F Misdemeanor.
27-19-05 RIGHT TURNING VEHICLES
Any driver of a vehicle attempting to turn to the right of an intersection shall
approach the intersection in the lane of traffic nearest to the right hand side
of the highway and in turning shall keep as close as possible to the right hand
curve or edge of the highway. Any person violating this section shall be deemed
guilty of a Class G Misdemeanor.
27-19-06 LEFT TURNING VEHICLES
Any drivers of a vehicle intending to turn left at any intersection shall
approach the intersection in the extreme left hand lane which is available to
traffic moving in the direction of travel of the vehicle and after entering the
intersection, the left turn shall be made so as to leave the intersection of
lane lawfully available to traffic. Any person violating this section shall be
deemed guilty of a Class G Misdemeanor.
27-19-07 TURNING FROM WRONG LANE
No driver shall turn said vehicle at an intersection unless the vehicle is in
proper position as defined in 27-19-05 and 27-19-06. Any person violating this
section shall be deemed guilty of a Class G Misdemeanor.
27-19-08 TURN SIGNAL REQUIRED
A signal of an intention to turn right or left shall be given continuously
during not less than two hundred (200) feet traveled by the vehicle. Any person
violating this section shall be deemed guilty of a Class G Misdemeanor.
27-19-09 LEFT TURNING VEHICLES RIGHT OF WAY OF OPPOSING TRAFFIC
Any driver of a vehicle within the intersection intending to turn to the left
shall yield the right of way to the vehicles approaching from the opposite
direction which is in the intersection or so close as to constitute an immediate
hazard. Any person violating this section shall be deemed guilty of a Class G
Misdemeanor.
27-19-10. DRIVING UPON SIDEWALK PROHIBITED
No- person shall drive any vehicle upon a- sidewalk or sidewalk area except when
crossing the sidewalk for entry upon a driveway. Any person violating this
section shall be deemed guilty of-a Class G Misdemeanor.
27-19-11 U-TURN PROHIBITED
No vehicle within a passing zone which is marked as required by this `Chapter
shall be turned to proceed in the opposite direction, nor may any such turning
movement be made unless it can be made safely without interfering with other
traffic. Any person violating this section shall be deemed guilty of a Class G
Misdemeanor.
27-19-12 PASSING OF VEHICLES
Any driver of any vehicle overtaking another vehicle proceeding in the same
direction shall pass with a safe distance to the left. The driver of the
overtaking vehicle shall pass in a safe distance to the side of the overtaken
vehicle. Any person violating this section shall be deemed guilty of an Class F
Misdemeanor.
27-19-13 PASSING ON RIGHT
Any driver of a vehicle may overtake and pass another vehicle upon the right
only in conditions permitting such movement is safe. Any person in violation of
this section shall be deemed guilty of a Class G Misdemeanor.
27-19-14 DRIVING TO LEFT OF CENTER
Any driver of a vehicle shall not drive to the left side of the center line of a
highway in overtaking and passing another vehicle proceeding in the same
direction unless such left side is clearly visible and is free of oncoming
traffic for a sufficient distance ahead to permit such overtaking and passing to
be made safely. Any person violating this section shall be deemed guilty of a
Class G Misdemeanor.
27-19-15 PASSING CURVES
No vehicle shall be driven on the left side of the roadway when approaching or
upon the rest of a grade or curve in the highway where the driver's view is
obstructed within such distance as to create a hazard in the event another
vehicle might approach from the other direction. Any person violating this
section shall be deemed guilty of a Class G Misdemeanor.
27-19-16 NO PASSING ZONES
Any driver of any vehicle shall not overtake and pass any other vehicle
proceeding in the same direction when traveling in a no passing zone on highway
or bridges whether the passing maneuver is safely completed or not. Any person
violating this section shall be deemed guilty of a Class F Misdemeanor.
27-19-17 DESIGNATION OF NO PASSING ZONE
The Sisseton-Wahpeton Sioux Tribe shall designate no passing zones, if they have
not already been designated. Any currently marked as no passing zones will
remain no passing zones without further tribal action being necessary.
27-19-18 FOLLOWING TOO CLOSELY
Any driver of a vehicle shall not follow another vehicle more closely than is
reasonable and prudent, having due regard for the speed of such vehicle and the
traffic upon and condition of the highway. Any person violating this section
shall be deemed guilty of a Class G Misdemeanor.
27-19-19 PEDESTRIANS
Any driver of a vehicle upon a highway shall yield the right of way to
pedestrians crossing the highway. Any person violating this section shall be
deemed guilty of a Class F Misdemeanor.
27-20-01 ABANDONED VEHICLES - UNATTENDED FOR MORE THAN EIGHT HOURS
Whenever any vehicle is left unattended on any public road, highway or highway
right of way for a longer period than eight (8) hours without notifying the
Sisseton-Wahpeton Sioux Tribal Police, it shall be deemed an abandoned vehicle
and subject to the provisions contained in 27-20-03 through 27-20-07.
27-20-02 MODIFICATION OF ABANDON VEHICLE PROVISIONS
The Sisseton-Wahpeton Sioux Tribal Council may, by ordinance, modify or change
any provision of any section 27-20-01 through 27-20-07, inclusive to meet its
needs or to clarify the duties of the Sisseton-Wahpeton Tribal Police
Department.
27-20-03 REMOVAL OF ABANDONED VEHICLES
Whenever an officer of the Sisseton-Wahpeton Sioux Tribal Police Department
finds an abandoned vehicle, such officer is hereby authorized to provide for the
removal of such vehicle to the nearest garage or place of safety.
27-20-04 VEHICLE BLOCKING TRAFFIC - WRECKED VEHICLES
A vehicle found unattended upon a bridge or causeway or in any tunnel or where
such vehicle constitutes an obstruction and hazard to traffic or a wrecked
vehicle may be removed at any time and without regard to eight hour period
provided in 27-20-01.
27-20-05 NOTIFICATION TO OWNER OF REMOVAL
It shall be-the duty of every officer of the Sisseton-Wahpeton Sioux Tribal
Police Department who has provided for the removal of an abandoned or wrecked
vehicle to notify the registered owner and if encumbered, the lien holder by
certified mail of the removal and in whose custody such vehicle has been placed
and- that the registered owner may recover said vehicle upon payment of all
costs incident to the removal and storage of the same.
27-20-06 SALE OF UNCLAIMED VEHICLE - PUBLICATION OF NOTICE
If after three (3) months from the date of mailing notice pursuant to 27-20-05,
the vehicle remains unclaimed, such vehicle may be sold by the Tribal Court, as
may be designated by its governing body at public auction upon notice to be
published in the newspaper of general circulation in the county not less than
once a week for two consecutive weeks. Such notice shall contain a description
of the vehicle, including year, make, model, serial number, color and license
number, if any; a statement that the vehicle was found abandoned and the date
thereof, and the place, date and time at which such vehicle (s) will be sold,
which date shall not be sooner than one (1) week following the date of the last
publication of notice.
27-20-07 DISPOSITION OF FUNDS RECEIVED ON SALE OF VEHICLES
After the costs of removing, storing, advertising the selling of a vehicle
pursuant to 27-20-06 are deducted, the balance of the sale price shall be held
for the owner of such vehicle for a period of ninety (90) days after the sale.
If such proceeds are not claimed at the expiration of ninety (90) days after the
sale, such proceeds shall be paid to the Treasurer of The Sisseton-Wahpeton
Sioux Tribe to be deposited on account for the Sisseton-Wahpeton Tribal Police
Department.
27-21-01 FAILURE TO STOP ON SIGNAL OR ELUDING A POLICE OFFICER
Any driver of a vehicle who intentionally fails or refuses to bring his vehicle
to a stop or who otherwise flees or attempts to elude a pursuing police vehicle
when given visual or audible signal to bring the vehicle to a stop, shall be
deemed guilty of a Class One (1) Misdemeanor.
27-22-01 DUTY OF VEHICLE OPERATOR TO STOP IN CASE OF ACCIDENT
Any driver of a vehicle involved in any accident, resulting in injury or death
to any person or damage to property~shall immediately stop and give his name and
address and the name and address of the owner and the license number of the
vehicle he is driving to the person struck or the driver or occupants of any
vehicle collided with- and shall render to any person injured in such accident
reasonable assistance.
27-22-02 DUTY TO STOP AFTER ACCIDENT
Any driver of a vehicle which collided with or is involved in an accident with
any vehicle or other property which is unattended resulting in any damage to
such other vehicle or property shall immediately stop and shall then and there
either locate and notify the operator or owner of such vehicle or other property
of his name, address, and the name and address of the owner and the license
number of the vehicle he is driving, or shall attach securely, in a conspicuous
place in or on such vehicle or other property, a written notice giving his name,
address, and the name and address of the owner and license number of the vehicle
he is driving, and shall without unnecessary delay, notify the nearest officer
of a duly authorized Public Safety authority. Every such stop shall be made
without obstructing traffic more than is necessary.
27-23-01 HIT AND RUN ACCIDENT RESULTING IN DEATH OR INJURY
Any driver of a vehicle involved in an accident resulting in injury or death to
any person who shall fail to stop immediately such vehicle at the scene of such
accident and comply with the laws herein, shall be deemed guilty of a Class One
(1) Misdemeanor
27-23-02 HIT AND RUN ACCIDENT RESULTING IN PROPERTY DAMAGE
Any driver of a vehicle involved in an accident resulting in damage to property
who fails immediately to stop such vehicle at the scene of such accident and
give his name and address, and the name and address of the owner of the vehicle,
shall be deemed guilty of a Class -A Misdemeanor.
27-24-01 PARKING AND NO PARKING ZONES - VIOLATION PROHIBITED
The Tribal Police Department is authorized to place signs prohibiting,
restricting or allowing parking, stopping, or restricting vehicles from those
areas which are posted by signs. The Police are further authorized to give
tickets to those violating any part of this section and any violation shall be
deemed a Class G Misdemeanor.
27-25-01 VEHICLE EQUIPMENT
27-25-02 HEADLIGHTS REQUIRED
Every motor vehicle other than a motorcycle, road roller, road machinery or farm
tractor shall be equipped with at least two head lights with at least one on
each side of the front of the motor vehicle. A violation of this section is a
Class G Misdemeanor.
27-25-03 PERIODS DURING WHICH LAMPS MUST BE LIGHTED
Every vehicle upon a highway within the reservation during the period from a
half hour before sunrise and at any other time when there is not sufficient
light to render clearly discernible any person on the highway at a distance of
two hundred (200) feet ahead, shall be equipped with lighted front and rear
lamps as respectively required in 27-25-02 and 27-25-09 inclusive. A violation
of this section is a Class G Misdemeanor.
27-25-04 CIRCUMSTANCES UNDER WHICH HEADLAMPS MUST BE DIMMED
Whenever a motor vehicle is being operated upon a highway, or a portion thereof,
which is sufficiently lighted to reveal a person on the highway at a distance of
two hundred (200) feet ahead of the vehicle, it shall be mandatory to tilt the
beam downward. Whenever, a motor vehicle meets another vehicle or overtakes
another vehicle proceeding in the same direction on any highway it shall be
mandatory to tilt the beams downward, provided that at all times as required by
27-25-03 at least two (2) lights shall be displayed on front of, and opposite
sides of every motor vehicle. A violation of this section is a Class G
Misdemeanor.
27-25-05 REAR LAMPS REQUIRED
Every motor vehicle, trailer, semitrailer, and pole trailer, or any other
vehicle which is being drawn at the end of a combination of vehicles shall be
equipped with at least two (2) tail lamps mounted on the rear, when lighting is
required by 27-25-03 shall emit a red light plainly visible from a distance of
one thousand (1,000) feet to the rear. A violation of this section is a Class G
Misdemeanor.
27-25-06 STOP LAMPS REQUIRED
Every motor vehicle trailer, semitrailer and pole trailer shall be equipped with
two (2) or more stop lamps. The stop lamp shall display a red light visible ROM
a distance of not less than three hundred (300) feet to the rear in normal
sunlight. A violation of this section is a Class G Misdemeanor.
27-25-07 RED LIGHTS ON FRONT OF VEHICLE PROHIBITED
Except as to police or fire departments, or fire patrol vehicles or such
ambulances and emergency vehicles, any person who drives or moves any vehicle
upon the highway with any red light visible from directly in front thereof
is-guilty of a Class G Misdemeanor.
27-25-08 LICENSE PLATE ILLUMINATION
Either the rear lamps required by 27-25-05 or a separate lamp shall be so
constructed and placed as to illuminate with a white light the rear license
plate and render it clearly legible from a distance of fifty (50) feet to the
rear. When the rear license plate is illuminated by an electric lamp other than
the required rear lamp, said lamps shall be turned on or off only by the same
control switch at all times whenever head lamps are lighted. A violation of this
section is a Class G Misdemeanor.
27-25-09 LIGHTS ON PARKED VEHICLES
Whenever a vehicle is stopped or parked on a highway whether attended or
unattended during the times mentioned in 27-25-03, there shall be displayed upon
such vehicle one or more lamps projecting a white or amber light visible under
normal atmospheric conditions from a distance of five hundred (500) feet to the
front of such vehicle and projecting a red light visible under like conditions
from a distance of five hundred (500) feet to the rear, except that no lights
need be displayed upon any such vehicle parked within corporate limits of a
municipality or within a housing site. A violation of this section is a Class G
Misdemeanor.
27-25-10 REPLACEMENT OF OPENING WITH SAFETY GLASS REQUIRED
It shall be an offense for any person to replace any glass or glazing material
used in partitions, doors, windows, windshields or wind deflectors in any motor
vehicle with any material other than safety glass or a type complying with the
definition of safety glass. A violation of this section is a class G
Misdemeanor.
27-25-11 NONTRANSPARENT MATERIAL ON WINDOWS PROHIBITED
It shall be an offense for any person to drive any vehicle upon a highway with
any sign, poster, or other nontransparent material upon the front windshield,
side wings, side windows or rear window of such motor vehicle other than a
certificate or other paper required to be displayed by law or other temporary
driving instruction placed thereon by the manufacturer unless the same shall not
obstruct the driver's clear view of the highway or any intersecting highway. A
violation of this section is a Class G Misdemeanor.
27-25-12 OBJECTS DANGLING BETWEEN DRIVER AND WINDSHIELD
It shall be an offense for any person to drive any vehicle upon a highway with
any object or gadget dangling between the view of the driver and the windshield
of said vehicle. A violation of this section is a Class G Misdemeanor.
27-25-13 WINDSHIELD WIPERS REQUIRED
The windshield on every vehicle except farm tractors and motorcycles shall be
equipped with a device or devices for cleaning rain, snow, or other moisture
from the windshield, which device shall be operated by the driver of the
vehicle. No person shall operate a motor vehicle upon the highways unless such
vehicle shall be equipped with such device or devices in good working order
capable of cleaning the windshield thereof and shall provide the driver a clear
view of the highway. A violation of this section is a Class G Misdemeanor.
27-25-14 REAR-VISION MIRRORS REQUIRED
Every motor vehicle shall be equipped with a mirror so located as to reflect to
the driver a view of the highway for a distance of at least two hundred (200)
feet to the rear of such vehicle, whether operated singly or towing another
vehicle. A violation of this section is a class G Misdemeanor.
27-25-15 MUFFLER REQUIRED
No person shall drive a motor vehicle on a highway unless such motor vehicle is
equipped with a muffler in good working order and in constant operation to
prevent excessive or unusual noise and annoying smoke. A violation of this
section is a Class G Misdemeanor.
27-25-16 BRAKES REQUIRED
Every motor vehicle, trailer, semitrailer, and any combination of such vehicles
operating upon a highway within the reservation shall be equipped with brakes. A
violation of this section is a Class G Misdemeanor.
27-25-17 CRACKED OR BROKEN GLASS PROHIBITED
No glass or glazing material, at any location where it is used, cracked or
broken so as to cut or injure any person in or around a vehicle. A violation of
this section is a Class G Misdemeanor.
27-25-18 GLASS IMPAIRING OPERATOR'S VISION PROHIBITED
No glass or glazing material may be cracked, broken, shattered or distorted to
the extent that it significantly impairs the vision of the motor vehicle
operator. A violation of this section is a Class G Misdemeanor.
27-26-01 SCHOOL BUSES DEFINED
School bus shall mean every vehicle with a capacity of ten (10) or more pupils
owned or operated by or for a school or school district used for the purpose of
transporting school children to and from school or used in connection with
school activities.
27-26-02 MARRING OF SCHOOL BUS - COVERING WHEN NOT USED FOR TRANSPORTATION
OF CHILDREN
Every school bus owned or operated by or for a school or school district shall
bear upon the front and rear thereof plainly visible signs containing the words
"School Bus" in letters not less than eight (8) inches in height. When
any such vehicle is being operated upon a highway for purposes other than the
actual transportation of children either to and from school in connection with
school activities all marking thereon indicating "School Bus" shall be
covered or concealed. A violation of this section is a Class G Misdemeanor.
27-26-03 FLASHING RED AND AMBER LIGHTS REQUIRED
Any school bus with a capacity for ten (10) or more students used to transport
children to and from a public or nonpublic school, shall be equipped on the
front and rear thereof the alternately flashing amber caution lights and
alternately flashing red signal lights. A violation of this section is a Class F
Misdemeanor.
When stopping to receive or discharge pupils the operator of a school bus to which 27-25-03 applies shall cause the amber caution light to be lighted at a distance of not less than three hundred (300) feet nor more than five hundred (500) feet from the point where said pupils are to be received or discharged from the bus. If the point of receiving or discharging pupils is:
1. On the roadway or in a business or residential district where the speed
limit is thirty-five (35) miles per hour or more, the operator shall bring the
bus to a stop, turn off the amber caution lights ,and turn on the red flashing
signals, or
2. Off the roadway or in a business or residential district where the speed
limit is thirty-five (35) miles per hour, the operator shall bring the bus to a
stop and continue to flash amber caution lights.
27-26-05 RECEIVING OR DISCHARGING PUPILS
After receiving or discharging pupils the operator shall turn off the flashing
signal lights and proceed on route. A violation of this section is a Class E
Misdemeanor.
27-26-06 DUTY OF MOTORISTS TO SLOW OR STOP - EXCEPTION FOR SPECIFIED
HIGHWAYS
The operator of a motor vehicle upon a two-lane highway meeting or overtaking-a
school bus on which the amber warning lights are flashing shall reduce the speed
of his vehicle to not more than twenty (20) miles per hour and proceed past said
school bus with caution. The operator of a motor vehicle upon meeting or
overtaking a school bus on which the red flashing signal lights are flashing
shall bring his vehicle to a complete stop not closer than fifteen (15) feet
from the school bus and shall remain stopped until the flashing red signal
lights are extinguished.
27-26-07 The operator of a motor vehicle upon a highway providing two or more lanes in each direction need not stop upon meeting a school bus which is traveling in the opposite direction even though the school bus is stopped and red signal lights are flashing thereon. A violation of this section is a Class E Misdemeanor.
27-27-01 VEHICLE LICENSES AND DRIVER'S LICENSES
Vehicles, including motorcycles, operated within the reservation shall be
licensed in accordance with the applicable laws of the state of South Dakota.
The tribe herein adopts and all regulations of said state, now in existence or
hereinafter adopted by the state. Any person violating any of the provisions on
licensing of vehicles shall be punished in accordance with the statute provided.
27-27-02 DRIVER'S LICENSE
Every person operating a motor vehicle within the reservation shall be licensed
in accordance with the applicable laws of the state of South Dakota.
27-27-03 PROHIBITION AGAINST MORE THAN ONE LICENSE
No person shall be permitted to have more than one valid operator's license at
any time, excluding Tribal license for operation of tribal vehicles only. A
violation of this section is a Class G Misdemeanor.
27-27-04 PROHIBITION AGAINST DRIVING WITHOUT LICENSE
No person except those hereinafter expressly exempted shall drive any motor
vehicle upon a highway within the reservation unless such persons has a valid
license as an operator under the provisions provided. A violation of this
section is a Class F Misdemeanor.
27-27-05 LICENSE NOT REQUIRED FOR OPERATION OF TRACTOR
Any person is exempt from license under this section while operating a farm
tractor or implement of husbandry to or from the home farm buildings to or from
any adjacent or nearby farmland for the exclusive purpose of conducting farm
operations, provided; however that no person whose license is under suspension
or revocation shall operate a farm tractor or implement of husbandry upon the
streets or highways within any municipality. A violation of this section is a
Class G Misdemeanor.
27-27-06 GOVERNMENT EMPLOYEES EXEMPT FROM LICENSING REQUIREMENTS Any employee of the United States Government is exempt from license under this chapter while operating a motor vehicle owned by or leased to the United States Government and being operated on official business.
27-27-07 NONRESIDENT OUT-OF-STATE LICENSE EXEMPT
A nonresident who is at least sixteen (16) years of age and who has in his
immediate possession a valid operator's license issued to him in his home state
or country may operate a motor vehicle on the reservation without a license
under this chapter.
27-27-08 RESIDENT OF JURISDICTION NOT REQUIRING LICENSE EXEMPT
A nonresident who is at least sixteen (16) years of age whose home state or
country does not require the licensing of operators, may operate a motor vehicle
without a license under this chapter, for a period of not more than ninety (90)
days in any calendar year, if the motor vehicle so operated is duly registered
in the home state or country of such nonresident
27-27-09 PERIOD OF RESIDENCY
Any person who has resided on the reservation for a period of ninety (90) days
is considered a resident for the purpose of being licensed to drive a motor
vehicle under the laws of the state of South Dakota.
27-27-10 MILITARY PERSONNEL, DOMESTIC VOLUNTEERS AND DEPENDENTS WITH
OUT-OF-STATE LICENSE EXEMPT
Any nonresident who is stationed in this state while in the military service of
the United States or any nonresident who is assigned in this state under the
Domestic Volunteer Service Act of 1973 and any dependent of such nonresident and
who has in his possession a valid driver's license or permit issued in his home
state or country may operate a motor vehicle on the reservation.
27-27-11 DRIVER EDUCATION CLASS STUDENTS
Students in Driver's Education class may drive a motor vehicle without a license
under this chapter when such student is accompanied by an approved driver
education instructor who is occupying a seat beside such student driver.
27-27-12 LICENSE BE IN POSSESSION OF DRIVER
Every licensee shall have his operator's license in his immediate possession at
all times when operating a motor vehicle and shall display the same upon demand
of a judge of a court of record,. or a Tribal Police Officer. A violation of
this section is a Class G Misdemeanor.
27-27-13 EXTENDED TERM OF LICENSE HELD BY MEMBER OF ARMED FORCES
A valid South Dakota driver's license held by any person who enters or is in the
United States Armed Forces shall continue and the person remains absent from the
reservation, and not to exceed thirty (30j days following the date on which the
holder is honorably separated from such service or returns to the reservation,
unless the license is sooner suspended, canceled, or revoked for cause as
provided by law. The license is valid only when in the immediate possession of
the licensee while driving and the licensee has his discharge or separation
papers, if he has been discharged or separated from the service, in his
immediate possession.
27-27-14 LICENSE ISSUED IN OTHER JURISDICTION PROHIBITED DURING SUSPENSION
OR REVOCATION
Any resident or nonresident whose operator's license or right or privilege to
operate a motor vehicle in this state has been suspended or revoked as provided
by state law shall not operate a motor vehicle on the reservation under a
license, permit or registration certificate issued by any other jurisdiction or
otherwise during such suspension or after such revocation until a new license is
obtained when permitted by state law. A violation of this section is a Class F
Misdemeanor.
27-27-15 DRIVING WHILE LICENSE IS CANCELED, SUSPENDED OR REVOKED
Any person who drives a motor vehicle on any public highway within the
reservation at a time when his privilege to do so is canceled, suspended or
revoked shall be guilty of a Class F Misdemeanor.
27-27-16 POSSESSION OF REVOKED OR ALTERED LICENSE
It shall be a Class E Misdemeanor for any person to display or cause or permit
to be displayed or have in his possession any canceled revoked or suspended,
fictitious or fraudulently altered operator's license.
27-27-17 PERMITTING USE OF OPERATOR'S LICENSE
It shall be a Class E Misdemeanor for any person to permit any unlawful use of
an operator's license issued to him.
27-27-18 DISPLAYING ANOTHER'S LICENSE
It is a Class E Misdemeanor for any person to display or represent as one's own
any operator's license not issued to him.
27-28-01 ALLOWING UNAUTHORIZED PERSON TO USE VEHICLE
No person shall authorize or knowingly permit a motor vehicle owned by him or
under his control to be driven upon any highway by any person who is not
authorized under tribal law or in violation of any of the provisions of this
chapter. A violation of this section is a class D Misdemeanor.
27-28-02 PERMITTING UNAUTHORIZED MINOR TO USE VEHICLE
No person shall cause or knowingly permit his child or ward under the age of
eighteen (18) years to drive unaccompanied by an adult with a valid license, a
motor vehicle upon any highway when such minor is not authorized under tribal
law or in violation of any of the provisions of this chapter. A violation of
this section is a Class D Misdemeanor.
27-28-03 UNAUTHORIZED USE OF VEHICLE UNDER RESTRICTED LICENSE
It is a Class F Misdemeanor for any person to operate a motor vehicle in any
manner in violation of the restrictions imposed in a restricted license issued
to him.
27-28-04 OPERATION OF TRIBAL VEHICLE WITHOUT TRIBAL DRIVER'S LICENSE
Any person who operates a tribal vehicle upon the highway without a valid Tribal
Driver's License as set forth in Ordinance No. 80-01, shall be deemed guilty of
a Class D Misdemeanor.
27-29-01 MOTORCYCLE REGULATIONS
DEFINITION: As used in this chapter, the following words mean:
27-29-02 MOTORCYCLE - includes motorcycle, motorbikes, bicycles with motor attached and all motor operated vehicles of the bicycle or tricycle type, whether the motive power be a part thereof or attached thereto, and having a saddle or seat with the driver sitting astride or upon it, or a platform on which the driver stands, but excluding a tractor.
27-29-03 DEPARTMENT - means the Sisseton-Wahpeton Sioux Tribal
Police Department.
27-29-04 MOPED - a motor drive cycle equipped with two or three wheels, foot pedal to permit muscular propulsion and an independent power source providing a maximum of two-(2) brake horsepower. If a combustion engine is used, the maximum piston or rotor displacement -shall be fifty (50) cubic centimeters regardless of the number of chambers in the power source. The power source may not be capable of propelling the vehicle unassisted at a speed in excess of thirty (30) miles per hour on a level road surface and is equipped with a power drive system that functions directly or automatically only, not requiring clutching or shifting by the operator after the drive system is engaged.
27-29-05 SPECIAL QUALIFICATIONS TO OPERATE MOTORCYCLE - MOPED EXCEPTED
No person may operate a motorcycle, except a Moped as defined in 27-29-04, on
public streets or highways without a motor vehicle driver's license or permit
upon which a state (South Dakota) testing officer has certified that such person
is qualified to operate such motorcycle. A violation of this section shall be
deemed a Class G Misdemeanor.
27-29-06 PROTECTIVE HELMET REQUIRED FOR MINOR
It shall be unlawful for any person to operate a motorcycle with any person
under the age of thirteen (13) years as a passenger, if the passenger is not
wearing a protective helmet of a type approved by the department. Moped as
defined by 27-29-04 are exempt from this section. A violation of this section
shall be deemed a Class G Misdemeanor.
27-29-07 EYE PROTECTIVE SCREEN OR WINDSCREEN REQUIRED
No person shall operate a motorcycle unless he is wearing an eye protective
device of a type approved by the department, except when a motorcycle is
equipped with windscreen. A violation of this section shall be deemed a Class G
Misdemeanor.
27-30-01 BICYCLE ORDINANCE
No bicycles shall be operated within any Sisseton-Wahpeton Sioux Tribal
Housing areas between thirty (30) minutes before sunset and 6:00 a.m. Bicycles
shall be operated with a white headlight visible under normal atmospheric
conditions from the front thereof for not less than three hundred (300) feet
indicating approach or presence of bicycle. Such bicycle shall also be operated
with firmly attached proper lighting, or with a yellow or red light, or
reflector visible from two hundred (200) feet from the-rear thereof.
27-30-02 VIOLATIONS
Any adult person who is found in violation of this chapter shall be deemed
guilty of a Class F Misdemeanor, punishable by a- fine not to exceed fifty
dollars ($50.00).
27-30-03 MINOR IN VIOLATION
Any minor child, under eighteen (18) years of age, who is found in violation of
this chapter, the parent, guardian, or custodian of the minor child shall be
made responsible to a fine not to exceed fifty dollars ($50.00). A violation of
this section is a Class F Misdemeanor.
27-30-04 BICYCLE IMPOUNDED - AUCTION
Any violations of 27-30-01, 27-30-02 and 27-30-03, a tribal law enforcement
officer or the Sisseton-Wahpeton Housing Authority security guard assigned to
the housing area where the violation occurred, may impound the bicycle for a
period not to exceed fifteen (15) days. A fee for storage of ten dollars
($10.00) shall be paid to the Sisseton-Wahpeton Sioux Tribal Police Department
by the owner of the bicycle, or if the owner is a minor, the minor's parent,
guardian or custodian, prior to the bicycle being released. If the bicycle is
not claimed within fifteen (15) days, the bicycle shall be sold at auction.
27-31-01 SEVERABILITY
If any clause, sentence, paragraph, section, or part of this code shall, for any
reason be adjudicated by any Court of competent jurisdiction, to be invalid or
unconstitutional, such judgement shall not affect, impair, or invalidate the
remainder thereof, but shall be confined in its operation to the clause,
sentence, paragraph, section or part thereof directly involved in the
controversy in which the judgement shall have been rendered.
27-24 IMPLIED CONSENT FORM
1. I have arrested you for A violation of 2T-13-01 of the Sisseton-Wahpeton
Sioux Tribal Traffic Code.
2. I request that you submit to a chemical test of your to determine the amount
of alcohol, or the presence of other drugs, in your blood.
3. You have a right to a chemical test by a technician of your own choosing at
your own expense, in addition to the test I have just requested.
4. If you refuse to submit to the requested chemical test, no test will be
given, but the court can suspend your driving privileges on the reservation.
5. In addition, if you refuse to submit to the requested chemical test, your
refusal may be admissible into evidence at a subsequent trial for a violation of
27-13-01 of the Sisseton-Wahpeton Sioux Tribal Traffic Code, driving while under
the influence of alcohol or drugs.
6. If you plead guilty of a violation of 27-13-01 of the Sisseton-Wahpeton Sioux
Tribal Traffic code prior to a revocation order being issued, your driver's
license or your nonresident driving privilege will not be revoked for having
refused the test.
7. Do you wish to submit to the chemical test I have requested?
DEFENDANT
DATE
TIME AM PM
OFFICER
SISSETON-WAHPETON SIOUX TRIBE
CHAPTER 27B
INFANT/CHILD PASSENGER RESTRAINT CODE
27B-01-01 INTENT
For the purpose of this Code, a passenger vehicle is any motor vehicle with
motive power designed for carrying ten passengers, or fewer, but does not
include a motorcycle or trailer.
27B-02-01 INFANT/CHILD PASSENGER RESTRAINTS
Any driver of an infant or child five (5) years of age or younger, when
transporting the child in a commercial or private motor vehicle operated on any
street, road, or highway on the Sisseton-Wahpeton Sioux Reservation, shall
properly secure the child in an approved child passenger restraint system. The
restraint system shall meet Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard Number 213,
which requires the following information:
1. On a permanent label attached to the restraint, the Statement "This
child restraint system conforms to all applicable Federal Motor Vehicle Safety
Standards"; and,
2. On a permanent label, attached to the restraint, the manufacturer's
recommendations of the minimum and maximum weight and height of the children who
can safely occupy the system; and,
3. Printed installation instructions with step-by-step procedures, including
diagrams of installing the system in motor vehicle, positioning the child in the
system and adjusting the system to fit the child.
27B-03-01 CERTAIN VEHICLES EXEMPT
The provisions of Section 2713-02-01 of this Code do not apply to:
1. Any occupant of a passenger vehicle manufactured before September 1. 1973;
and,
2. An occupant of a vehicle not equipped with a safety seatbelt system because
federal law does not require that vehicle to be so equipped (school bus); and,
3. Any rural carrier of the United States Postal Service while serving his rural
postal route.
27B-03-02 Any person who violates 27B-02-01 is guilty of a petty offense.
27B-04-01 NOT APPLICABLE UNDER CERTAIN CONDITIONS
The provisions of this Code do not apply:
1. If all seat positions equipped with child passenger safety seat systems of
safety seatbelts are occupied.
2. In passenger cars manufactured before 1966 that have not been equipped with
safety seatbelts.
27B-05-01 FAILURE TO COMPLY
Failure to comply with the provisions of this Code does not constitute
contributory negligence, comparative negligence or assumption of the risk.
Failure to comply with the provisions of this Code may not be introduced as
evidence in any criminal litigation other than a prosecution under this Code or
in any civil litigation on the issue of injuries or on the issue of mitigation
of damages.
27B-06-01 ENFORCEMENT
Enforcement of this code by Tribal Law Enforcement Officers shall be
accomplished as a primary action if the police officer suspects children under
the age of five (5) years of age are not properly restrained in a moving
vehicle.
27B-07-01 PENALTY
Any person violating the provisions of this Code is guilty of a petty, offense
and is punishable by a fine not to exceed $37.50. The effective date of this
Section should be June 1, 1990.
27B-08-01 SEVERABILITY
If any clause, sentence, paragraph, section, or part of this Code shall, for any
reason, be adjudicated by any Court of competent jurisdiction to be invalid or
unconstitutional such judgement shall not affect, impair, or invalidate the
remainder thereof, but shall be confined in its operation to the clause,
sentence, paragraph, section, or part thereof directly involved in the
controversy in which the judgement shall have been rendered.
SISSETON-WAHPETON SIOUX TRIBE
CHAPTER 270
USE - OF A SAFETY SEAT BELT SYSTEM IN PASSENGER
VEHICLES
27-01-01 INTENT
For the purpose of this Code, a passenger vehicle is any self-propelled vehicle
intended primarily for use and operation on the public highways including
passenger cars, station wagons, vans, taxicabs, emergency vehicles, motor homes,
trucks, and pickups. The term does not include motorcycles, motor scooters,
motor bicycles, motorized bicycles, passenger buses, and school buses. The term
also does not include farm tractors and implements of husbandry designed
primarily or exclusively for use in agricultural operations.
27C-02-01 PASSENGER RESTRAINTS
Every operator and front seat passenger of a passenger vehicle, including pickup
trucks and vans, operated on a Tribal road within the jurisdiction of the
Sisseton -Wahpeton Law Enforcement, shall wear a properly adjusted and fastened
safety seat belt system. These seat belt systems are required to be installed in
the passenger vehicle when manufactured pursuant to Federal Motor Vehicle Safety
Standard Number 208 (49 CFR 571.208) in effect January 01, 1989, at all times
when the vehicle is in forward motion. The driver of the passenger vehicle shall
secure or cause to be secured a properly adjusted and fastened safety seat belt
system on any passenger in the front seat who is at least five years of age but
younger than eighteen years of age. Any violation of this Section is not a
moving traffic offense.
27C-03-01 THE PROVISIONS OF 27C-02-01 OF THIS CODE DO NOT APPLY TO:
1. Any occupant of a passenger vehicle manufactured before September 01, 1973;
2. Any occupant of a passenger vehicle who possesses a written statement from a
doctor licensed under Chapter 36-4 or 36-5 that the individual is unable for
medical reasons to wear a safety seat belt system;
3. Any occupant of a vehicle not equipped with a safety seat belt system because
federal law does not require that vehicle to be so equipped; or
4. Any rural carrier of the United States postal service while serving his rural
postal route or lay person delivering newspapers or periodicals on an assigned
home delivery route.
27C-04-01 Failure to comply with the provisions of this Code does not constitute contributory negligence, comparative negligence or assumption of, the risk. Failure to comply with the provisions of this Code may not be introduced as evidence in any criminal litigation other than a prosecution under this Code or in any civil litigation the issue of injuries or on the issue of mitigation of damages.
27C-05-01 Enforcement of this Code by Tribal Law Enforcement agencies
shall be
accomplished as a primary action. A violation of the Code is a petty offense.
27C-06-01 The effective date of 27C-05-01 is October 01, 1994.
27C-07-01 SEVERABILITY
If any clause, sentence, paragraph, section, or part of this Code shall, for any
reason be adjudicated by any Court of competent jurisdiction, to be invalid or
amendment unconstitutional, such judgement shall not affect, impair, or
invalidate the remainder thereof, but shall be confined in its operation to the
clause, sentence, paragraph, section, or part thereof shall have been the
controversy in which the rendered.