AL HB220

Amends Section 32-5-9 of the Code of Alabama 1975 to clarify liability for highway damage caused by vehicles, objects, or contrivances operated on highways or highway structures.

Expands the definition of "damage" to include construction or reconstruction to applicable standards, equipment and labor reimbursement, debris removal and site cleanup, equipment and vehicle rental or damage costs, traffic control and management, and any other related costs incurred by the highway authority.

Establishes that persons who unlawfully obstruct, encroach upon, or damage a highway are responsible for reimbursing the controlling authority for all direct costs of removal and highway repairs, including traffic control and management expenses.

Permits civil actions for damage recovery to be brought by highway authorities in either Montgomery County or the county where the accident occurred.

Becomes effective immediately upon passage and approval by the Governor or upon becoming law by other means.