Pennsylvania’s “Steer Clear” law took effect in September 2006.  It is designed to protect police, emergency responders and tow-truck operators as they carry out traffic stops and respond to crashes and disabled vehicles on state roads.

When motorists are approaching locations where police are making traffic stops, construction crews are working on highways, or tow trucks are responding to disabled vehicles, the law requires them to move to a lane that is not immediately adjacent to an emergency response area.  If drivers cannot move over because of traffic or other conditions, they must proceed at a speed that is “reasonable and prudent,” according to the law.

The law applies any time an emergency vehicle has its lights flashing and where road crews or emergency personnel have lighted flares, posted signs or other traffic control devices.  Failure to move over or slow down can result in a summary offense that carries a fine of up to $250.  In addition, fines will be doubled for traffic violations occurring in these areas.  If that violation leads to a worker being injured, a 90-day license suspension could result.