The Department of Transport and Main Roads has reminded drivers of an imminent road rule change, which means they will need to slow down in certain situations.
The rule change is aimed at keeping first responders and emergency service workers safe.
Minister for Transport and Main Roads, Mark Bailey said the Department was introducing a new ‘move over, slow down’ rule, which meant drivers would need to slow down or change lanes when passing a stationary vehicle with flashing lights.
“This includes ambulances, police cars, fire trucks, tow trucks and breakdown assistance vehicles to protect anyone working by the roadside from vehicles travelling at high speeds,” Mr Bailey said.
He said the rule change would be implemented later this year.
“We need to help create a safer work environment for our first responders and emergency service workers,” Mr Bailey said.
“The likelihood of a serious injury or fatality increases significantly as vehicle speeds increase, so we are aiming to reduce that risk as much as possible.”
The Minister said many drivers already slowed and moved over when they saw the flashing lights.
“By implementing it as a road rule, it will make it clear for everyone that you need to move over or slow down when you see flashing lights to protect our first responders and emergency service workers at the roadside,” he said.
Mr Bailey said the rule change was even more important after a tragic start to 2022 on the State’s roads, with 12 lives lost in the first 20 days of the year.
He said the Department was also developing a new road safety strategy and action plan.
“We’ll be releasing it in the coming months to help improve road safety across Queensland,” Mr Bailey said.
