'STEER CLEAR' LAW AIMS TO PREVENT ACCIDENTS

On September 8, 2006 a new law took effect in Pennsylvania. This new law requires motorists to change lanes or slow down when they come upon emergency workers, police, or tow trucks on the road. That might seem like common sense, but there are those who put themselves in harm's way who say that it can be dicey out there, especially on the interstates. According to Dave Smalley, chief of the Stroud Township Volunteer Fire Department, which covers Interstate 80 between West Main Street and Bartonsville it is pretty sacry out on the highways of his district,

He notes that there have been a number of close calls and that his policy now is that the road is going to be closed, no matter what the emergency is. He said that he does this to keep his people safe. He noted that people complain about having to sit in traffic when there's an accident or other emergency. The safety of his people is the reason.

Three Pennsylvania State Troopers have been killed since 1999 after being struck by drivers passing by traffic stops or accident scenes. And amazingly, between January 2005 and March 2006, 38 police cruisers were hit by passing cars — despite their flashing emergency lights.

Some three dozen states have adopted similar "steer clear" laws in recent years. Pennsylvania's law is applicable whenever there are indications of an emergency scene, such as signs, flares and flashing lights, and the presence of emergency personnel or police.

This new law states that if drivers can't move to another lane farther from the scene, they must not drive at a speed greater than is reasonable and prudent under the conditions. Violation of the law carries a fine of up to $250. If the violation includes injury to a worker, the offender will lose his or her license for 90 days. Fines for traffic violations in these areas are doubled. Interestingly, the law also contains a provision that allows police to issue citations based on reports from emergency service responders, including tow truck drivers, ambulance workers, firefighters and road construction crews.

Chief Bernie Harrions of the Coolbaugh Township Volunteer Fire Company has stated that the law is a good thing. According to the chief this law is for the safety of his personnel as well as for the drivers. He noted that everyone's seems to be preoccupied with their CD player, cell phone, and their friends. He feels that people aren't paying attention to their driving. It will require an effort to educate people but I think it will definitely be beneficial.