Photo: RAA patrol Adrian Dixon and RAA tow truck driver Sean Coleman
It’s a sight most drivers know well: the flash of amber lights on the roadside, signalling someone’s day has hit a snag. Maybe it’s a flat tyre on a busy main road, or engine trouble near a tricky intersection. From May 19th, how South Australian motorists respond to these scenes is changing, with new laws mandating a slowdown to 25km/h when passing roadside service and recovery vehicles, like RAA patrols, with those yellow lights active.
This crucial update, extending rules already in place for emergency services, didn’t happen overnight. It follows the RAA’s dedicated ‘Slow Down for Yellow Too’ campaign, a push to strengthen safety for the workers who come to our rescue and the vulnerable community members they assist.
RAA Senior Manager Safety and Infrastructure, Charles Mountain, sees the change, passed by State Parliament last year, as a vital step forward. “We’re entering a new era of improved safety,” he says, relief evident in his tone. “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.”
Picture the scene: a family stranded with young children, or an elderly person waiting anxiously beside their car. “It’s not safe for anyone to have cars flying past too fast,” Mr Mountain stresses. “Whether that’s the elderly, a parent with children or any other person stranded at the roadside… By slowing down for yellow, it will ensure we’re all helping to protect the people they are helping.” He puts it simply: “If it were your family stuck on the side of the road, I’m sure you’d want others to slow down to help keep them safe.”
The need is starkly illustrated by RAA’s own records. Between 2019 and February this year, 23 reportable safety incidents occurred involving vehicles failing to slow down near breakdowns. Alarmingly, this includes eight instances where patrol vehicles themselves were struck, and five where essential traffic cones were hit or dragged away.
“From May 19, the message to drivers is clear,” Mr Mountain said. “If you see a roadside recovery vehicle with yellow flashing lights, slow down and give space. It’s a simple change that could save a life.”
Recognising that awareness is key, the RAA is collaborating with the State Government to educate the public about the new rule. “We’ll be working to ensure our members, and the wider public understand the new laws and why they matter,” Mr Mountain confirms. It’s a small adjustment in speed for drivers, but a potentially life-saving shield for those working or waiting on the edge of our busy roads.
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