NSW introduces 40km/h limit around emergency vehicles
New trial to commence from September 1, mirroring other statesNSW is set to follow three other Australian states by enforcing a lower speed limit around stationary emergency vehicles.
From September 1, drivers must slow to 40km/h on NSW roads when passing police cars, fire trucks and ambulances displaying their red and blue flashing lights, plus give way to any personnel 'on foot' in the vicinity of the emergency.
The rule applies to motorists travelling in either direction unless lanes are divided by a median strip. It joins a host of existing rules around emergency vehicles.
Evaders will be subject to a $448 fine and stung three demerit points if they don't comply with the new rule, which will be trialled for 12 months before likely being legislated for good.
“The new road rule will provide extra protection for all emergency workers and volunteers who respond to crashes and other incidents on our roads,” says Bernard Carlon, head of the NSW Centre for Road Safety.
“When you see the blue or red flashing lights on an emergency vehicle stopped on the road, safely reduce your speed so that you are not exceeding 40km/h when you pass.
“Keep to 40km/h until you’ve safely passed all people and emergency vehicles.
“We want to ensure that people protecting us on our road network don’t become casualties while doing their jobs. This rule will give extra protection and confidence that at the end of a shift they can go home safely to families and friends.”
Already, Victoria, Western Australia and South Australia have legislated similar rules. Queensland has pushed against the proposal.
The trial has been met with some resistance on social media, with some people expressing concerns around slowing to 40km/h in a busy 110km/h zone.
In Victoria, the RACV has expressed concerns over possible safety implications and motorists' ability to slow down in time when vision is implicated by sharp bends or the natural environment.
The Victorian Transport Association has also called for special consideration for heavy vehicles because of their size and weight.
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