A new Pennsylvania law requires motorists to move into the far lane when they come upon an auto accident, the scene of a traffic stop by police, or a tow truck picking up a vehicle.
Fines of up to $250 will be imposed on those who fail to do so, police said.
Three Pennsylvania troopers have died since 1999 as a result of being struck by motorists passing accident scenes or traffic stops. Also from 2005 through March of 2006, passing automobiles have run into marked police cars 38 times.
The new law pertains primarily to four-lane highways, but still affects all roadways. If someone cannot change lanes because of traffic, they must pass at a "careful and prudent reduced speed," the new law states. Motorists must also obey instructions, given verbally or with signs, flares, lights, or other traffic control devices used by police and other emergency workers.
The law gives police authority to issue tickets based on reports from emergency services responders, which includes road construction crews.
The law also states if an emergency responder is somehow injured because a motorist did not move over, the driver will lose their license for 90 days.
About three dozen states have adopted similar laws in recent years under lobbying by law enforcement groups and the towing industry.
Reference:
"Drivers to 'steer clear'," CentreDaily.com, By Pete Bosak, September 2006.
