STEER CLEAR LAW
The Vehicle Code (Title 75) 3327. Duty of driver in emergency response areas
The Steer Clear law, which went into effect Sept. 8, 2006, requires motorists to move into a lane that is not adjacent to an emergency response area. If drivers cannot move over because of traffic or other conditions, they must reduce their speed. In cases where law enforcement may not be present, the law allows road workers and emergency responders to report violations by motorists. Law enforcement can issue citations based on these reports. 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 work zones areas. If that violation leads to a worker being injured, a 90-day license suspension could result.
The Vehicle Code (Title 75) 3325. Duty of driver on approach of emergency vehicle.
Certain vehicles have sirens and flashing red lights or a combination of flashing red and blue lights. The lights assist emergency vehicles to move quickly through traffic and to answer emergency calls. When you hear a siren or see a vehicle approaching from any direction with flashing red lights or a combination of red and blue lights, you must:
• Pull over to the curb or side of the road and stop.
• Drive parallel and as near to the curb as possible. On one-way streets, drive toward the nearest roadside and stop.
• Stay clear of intersections.
• Start driving again after the emergency vehicle passes you, keeping at least 500 feet away from it.
• Make sure another emergency vehicle is not coming.