Drivers Reminded of Updated Laws in Pa.

Highway Safety Law Awareness Week runs from Feb. 17 to 23. PennDOT is reminding drivers of recent changes to Pennsylvania driving laws.

Automated speed

enforcement in work zones: Work Zone Safety

Going more than 11 miles per hour over the posted speed limit in a work zone may result in the following:

• First offense is a written warning

• Second offense is a $75 fine

• Third or subsequent offense is a $150 fine.

Automated speed enforcement came to Pennsylvania in 2018, and may be used only when a work zone is active.

‘Steer Clear’ with

updated change

Pennsylvania’s “Steer Clear” law – enacted to help prevent injuries and save lives – requires drivers to move over or slow down when they encounter an emergency scene, traffic stop or disabled vehicle.

Drivers must move over or slow down for all responders, including police, fire and ambulance as well as stopped tow trucks and maintenance vehicles.

In 2018, a similar regulation went into effect to protect trash and recycling workers. Drivers must slow down and move one lane away (if possible) when approaching a stationary trash or recycling truck.

DUI Blood Alcohol

Content Change

Harsher penalties went into effect last year for drivers convicted of DUI.

A fourth DUI in 10 years is now a felony. A third DUI offense in 10 years may also be a felony, depending on the driver’s blood alcohol content.

Legal consequences for homicide by vehicle while DUI were also strengthened.”

Take ice and snow off roofs, but also remember to brush off headlights

Remember to clear snow and ice from your car before driving. If snow or ice falls from a vehicle and strikes another vehicle or pedestrian causing death or serious bodily injury, the driver faces a fine of up to $1,000.

Road Closure for flood garners a fine if you pass: Turn Around,

Don’t Drown

The driver of a vehicle shall not drive past, around or through a sign or traffic-control device closing a road or highway due to an existing or hazardous condition.

This is a summary offense and is punishable by a fine of up to $250. If the violation results in the use of services of a first responder or emergency medical or rescue personnel (including a tow service), the fine increases to a maximum of $500 – and the driver is responsible for all of the emergency response costs.

Pedestrian Safety

Pennsylvania's “Blind Pedestrians” law mandates that the driver of a vehicle yield the right of way to any totally or partially blind pedestrian carrying a visible white cane or accompanied by a guide dog.

The driver of the vehicle shall take any precaution necessary, including bringing the vehicle to a stop, to avoid injuring or endangering the pedestrian.

This is a summary offense and is punishable by a fine of not less than $50 nor more than $150.