Slow down for amber: New speed limit when passing breakdown services vehicles

Thursday, 18 April 2024

Drivers will need to slow to 25km/h when they see the amber flashing lights of a RAA van stopped at the roadside, in a move designed to enhance safety for workers as well as stricken motorists.

The State Government has introduced legislation to parliament that if passed will reduce the speed limit when passing all breakdown services vehicles and tow trucks flashing amber lights.

RAA workers attend more than 950 callouts a day in South Australia, with an increasing number on high-speed arterial roads where workers – as well as drivers and passengers waiting at the roadside - are particularly vulnerable.

The proposed change is part of a push to protect breakdown service workers on the job as they help get motorists and their passengers safely back on the road.

The new law will mean drivers must slow to 25km/hr as they pass a stationary breakdown services vehicle with flashing amber lights.

Failure to slow down may result in a fine and demerit points based on the level of speeding. If successfully prosecuted for the offence, a driver faces a maximum court penalty of up to $2500.

The new speed limit does not apply if the stationary breakdown services vehicle is on the opposite side of the road you are travelling.

In the past four years there have been 20 reportable safety incidents caused by cars driving past breakdowns without due care, according to RAA data.

This included five incidents in which vans were hit by a car or motorcycle, and seven where traffic cones were knocked over or dragged down the road.

The legislation is an extension of the existing 25km/h speed limit in place to protect frontline volunteers and emergency services workers as they respond to incidents roadside.