In October, a state trooper – whose marked patrol car was positioned to block one lane – was severely injured while removing debris from a highway in Westmoreland County. An SUV traveling too fast was unable to stop in time, striking the trooper.
Such incidents have prompted the Pennsylvania State Department of Transportation (PennDOT) and Pennsylvania State Police to remind motorists to “steer clear” of police, emergency responders, road crews and tow-truck operators while they carry out their duties.
To draw additional attention to the state’s Steer Clear Law, PennDOT will display a message from Dec. 6-13 on more than 200 electronic message signs across the state. The message will be displayed from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., whenever other traffic alerts aren’t being displayed.
“Please remain aware and move over when flashing lights, flares, or emergency personnel appear on state roadways,” PennDOT Secretary Barry J. Schoch said. “This law is often ignored or disregarded due to speed, space or time. Let our workers, police, and other responders focus on doing their jobs and returning home safely every day.”
Pennsylvania’s Steer Clear Law requires motorists to move to a lane that is not immediately adjacent to an emergency response area. Such areas include locations where police are making traffic stops, where highway or construction workers are involved in emergency assistance, or where tow trucks are responding to disabled vehicles.
“If you cannot move over due to heavy traffic, please reduce your speed and proceed with caution,” said State Police Commissioner Frank Noonan. “Your life and that of the first responder may depend on it.”
The law applies whenever an emergency vehicle has its lights flashing and when road crews or emergency personnel have lighted flares, posted signs or other traffic control devices. Failure to move over or slow down can result in a summary offense that carries a fine of up to $250.
In addition, fines will be doubled for other traffic violations occurring in these areas. If the violation leads to a first responder’s injury, a 90-day license suspension could result. For more information on traffic safety in Pennsylvania, visit www.JustDrivePA.com.
