New South Australian laws requiring motorists to slow down to 25km/h when passing roadside service and recovery vehicles will come into effect on May 19.
These new laws passed State Parliament last year. They expand on the existing 25km/h speed limit for emergency services vehicles, so it also covers RAA and other roadside service and recovery vehicles when their amber lights are flashing.
The change follows The Royal Automobile Association of South Australia’s (RAA) ‘Slow Down for Yellow Too’ campaign, which called for the extension of the laws to protect roadside recovery workers and members of the community at the roadside.
Between 2019 and February 2025, RAA Road Service recorded 23 reportable safety incidents involving vehicles failing to slow down near breakdowns.
Included in that number are eight incidents where patrol vehicles were struck, and five where traffic cones were hit or dragged down the road.
RAA Senior Manager Safety and Infrastructure Charles Mountain said these new laws will improve safety for roadside workers.
“Our patrols and tow truck drivers are often helping members just metres from fast-moving traffic – and they deserve to carry out that work in a safe environment,” he said.
“You can’t choose where you break down – often it’s on a busy main road or near a precarious intersection – and our patrols and tow truck drivers are often helping vulnerable road users.
“By slowing down for yellow, it will ensure we’re all helping to protect the people they are helping.”
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