From today, new road rules requiring motorists in South Australia to slow down to 25km/h when passing stationary vehicles with flashing amber lights are now in effect. This change aims to enhance safety measures for roadside service and recovery workers across the state.
The legislation broadens the scope of the prior law, which mandated a 25km/h limit when passing emergency vehicles, to now include RAA patrols, tow trucks, and other road service vehicles using amber warning lights. This move follows the advocacy of the RAA’s ‘Slow Down for Yellow Too’ campaign, highlighting the need for extended protection for roadside recovery personnel and the community members they assist.
Charles Mountain, RAA Senior Manager Safety and Infrastructure, commented on the significance of this update. “This is a new era of safety for frontline workers and the hundreds of stranded drivers who need their help every day,” he noted. “No one chooses when or where they break down, and our patrols and tow truck drivers are often helping members just metres from fast-moving traffic.”
The repercussions for failing to adhere to the new speed restriction are substantial. Penalties start at $202 and two demerit points for exceeding the limit by less than 10km/h, escalating to $1,684 dollars and seven demerit points for breaches exceeding 30km/h. This regulation pertains to all lanes on multi-lane roads, although drivers on the opposite side of a divided road are exempt.
RAA statistics underline the necessity of these legal adjustments. The organisation responds to roughly 950 callouts daily on South Australian roads. Additionally, within a span from 2019 to February 2025, 23 safety incidents or near misses were recorded that involved vehicles not slowing down near roadside breakdowns. This includes multiple situations where patrol vehicles were impacted or traffic safety equipment was damaged.
Mr. Mountain also stressed the importance of driver awareness and caution. “Slowing down to 25km/h while passing a roadside service and recovery vehicles displaying flashing amber lights could save a life,” he stated.
It is crucial for motorists to note that the vehicles covered by this rule must be displaying active flashing amber lights – such as rotating lights or light bars. On the other hand, some vehicles like garbage trucks and other council or construction equipment may use amber lights but are not covered by this rule. Instead, such vehicles may have temporarily reduced speed limits as designated by specific signage.
This amendment to the traffic laws aligns South Australia with other states such as New South Wales, Queensland, Tasmania, and Western Australia, where similar regulations have already been established.
More News
