Drivers warned major road rule change in Australia with $961 fines 'just weeks' away: What you need to know
From July 1, divers in Victoria must not exceed more than 40km/h when they drive past an incident response vehicle.
The rule was already in place for emergency services like police and ambulance on the side of the road and now it will include tow trucks, mechanics and roadside assistance vehicles.
Royal Automobile Club of Victoria general manager Makarla Cole told Yahoo News the rule would give more emergency workers protection on the side of the road.
The standard penalty for exceeding the 40km/h speed limit near incident response vehicles is $346 but it can be as high as $961 with no demerit points docked.
The new rules have been put in place due to safety concerns from roadside workers
A survey by RACV revealed 83 per cent of roadside workers experienced a close call with another vehicle at least once a week.
Patroller Johnny Dipietro said he had experienced a number of near misses on the side of the road.
'I had a vehicle that almost hit me and I'll tell you what, it was really scary,' he said.
Incident responder Steven Bevens said close calls happened 'every day' when on the shoulder of a busy road or highway.
Victorian Automotive Chamber of Commerce Peter Jones said the new rules were necessary.
'We're pleased to see the Victorian government's commitment to roadside worker safety becoming a reality,' he said.
'When you see those flashing lights – whether it's police, ambulance, or now our towing and roadside assistance vehicles – slow down to 40km/h. It's a simple action that could save lives.
'This rule change finally gives them the protection they deserve. We urge all motorists to see this as an investment in everyone's safety.'
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