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Following a 12-month advocacy campaign by the state’s peak motoring body, new laws to protect the community, RAA Patrols and other recovery workers at the roadside have this week passed State Parliament.
In April this year, the State Government announced new laws will extend the current 25 km/h speed limit for emergency services vehicles to also include breakdown service and recovery vehicles when their amber flashing lights are operating.
RAA Senior Manager Safety and Infrastructure Charles Mountain thanked the State Government for supporting and prioritising these new laws to help keep South Australians safe.
“The new speed limit will help keep the community and RAA patrols and tow truck drivers safe on the roadside,” Mr Mountain said.
“Almost every South Australian motorist would have a story about when they were rescued at the roadside by an RAA patrol.
“No one chooses when or where they break down, and we welcome any measure that helps keep our patrols, breakdown recovery service providers, our members and the community safe at the roadside.
“This is not just about keeping our patrols safe, but also our 820,000 members and the rest of the South Australian community who might need a tow or other assistance.
“Between 2019-2023, there were 20 reportable safety incidents caused by cars driving past breakdowns without due care, according to RAA Road Service data.
“Alarmingly, this included five incidents where RAA patrol vans were hit by a car or motorcycle, and another five where traffic cones were hit or dragged down the road.
“These new laws will ensure people Slow Down for Yellow and help keep people safe and reduce the incidents of near misses.
“We look forward to the legislation coming into effect and will begin work to educate our members and the community on the changes.”
RAA will continue to work with the State Government to help educate the community about the new proposal ahead of implementation.