PA Traffic Law Refresh
Before the busy summer travel season begins, I’d like to remind you of some Pennsylvania state traffic safety laws designed to keep you and your families safe:
Automated speed enforcement came to Pennsylvania in 2018 and may be used only when a work zone is active. This is part of a 5-year pilot program and includes active work zones on interstates under the jurisdiction of PennDOT and interstates and freeways under the jurisdiction of the Turnpike Commission. Prior to approaching the cameras, there will be two warning signs that notify of the camera being used in the work zone. Drivers going more than 11 miles per hour over the posted speed limit in a work zone are subject to the following penalties: first offense is a written warning, second offense is a $75 fine, and the third or following offense is a $150 fine.
Pennsylvania's "Steer Clear" Law was enacted to help prevent injuries and save lives of first responders. It requires drivers to move over or slow down when they encounter an emergency scene, traffic stop, or disabled vehicle. Drivers must move over or slow down for all responders, including police, fire and ambulance crews, as well as stopped tow trucks and maintenance vehicles. In 2018, a similar regulation went into effect to protect trash/recycling trucks, mail trucks or roadside assistance truck workers. Drivers must slow down and move one lane away (if possible) when approaching trash/ recycling truck, mail truck or roadside assistance truck workers.
"Turn Around, Don't Drown" is a reminder that motorists may not drive past, around or through a sign or traffic-control device closing a road or highway due to an existing or hazardous condition. This is a summary offense and is punishable by a fine of $250. If the violation results in the use of services of a first responder or emergency medical or rescue personnel (including a tow service), the fine doubles to $500 - and the driver is responsible for all the emergency response costs.
"Right-of-way for pedestrians in crosswalks" is a state law mandating that when a traffic-control device is not in place or not in operation, the driver of a vehicle will yield the right-of-way to a pedestrian crossing the roadway at an intersection with a marked or unmarked crosswalk, a pedestrian crossing at a light, a pedestrian who is accompanied by a guide dog/carrying a white cane or who is crossing at alleys, driveways or sidewalks. This is a summary offense and is punishable by a fine of $50.
As you travel throughout our state and beyond this summer, please stay safe and obey these - and all - traffic laws.
Traffic law updates provided by PennDOT and the Pennsylvania State Police
