Do you know what to do if you see flashing lights?
Published on 15 October 2019
Shoalhaven City Council is reminding the community to slow down, move over and give space when emergency vehicles with flashing lights are stopped on the road side. A trial of the 40km/h rule has proven successful in improving the safety of vulnerable roadside workers from tow truck operators, break down assistance workers to emergency service workers.
As of September 26th, 2019, the rule has changed after concerns were raised of vehicles attempting to slow down in high speed environments. Kym Snow, Shoalhaven City Council’s Road Safety Officer said motorists on roads of 90km/h and higher speed limits need to exercise judgement in order to slow down to a reasonable speed.
“Drivers need to consider at high speeds whether the stationary vehicle is close to moving traffic, are their pedestrians on or near the road and can speed be reduced in a controlled way.” Kym Snow said.
“The rule has been expanded to now not only include emergency vehicles but also tow trucks and breakdown assistance vehicles as sometimes these services are the only responders.” Kym Snow said.
Motorists are still expected to slow down to 40km/h on roads of speeds under 90km/h. If drivers do not comply with the new road rule a $457 fine and 3 demerit points apply.
For further information search 'updated road rule'.