21-05-2025
Massive road rule change that could cost drivers $1,684 in one state: what you need to know
South Australians will be charged a hefty fine if they fail to slow down while passing a roadside assistance van.
Drivers have been limited to 25 km/h when passing stationary emergency services and school buses, but a new law from the state government has extended the rule.
The law, changed on Monday, now includes breakdown service patrols, tow trucks and other road service vehicles that have stopped with their amber lights flashing.
People ignoring the limit could be fined $202 and two demerit points if going less than 10km/h over the limit.
This jumps up to $1,684 and seven demerit points if they are caught driving more than 30km/h above the limit.
The law has also been extended to cover when drivers pass bollards or cones set up around a vehicle by a breakdown services worker.
'This is a new era of safety for frontline workers and the hundreds of stranded drivers who need their help every day,' Royal Automobile Association of South Australia senior manager safety and infrastructure Charles Mountain said.
'This new measure will help keep our patrols, members and the vulnerable community members we assist safe.'
RAA has recorded 23 reportable safety incidents or near misses between 2019 and February 2025 involving vehicles failing to slow down near breakdowns
This included eight incidents where patrol vehicles were struck, and five where traffic cones were hit or dragged down the road.
The change to South Australia's law brings the state in line with similar rules in New South Wales, Queensland, Tasmania, and Western Australia.
SA drivers already have to travel at 25 km/h when the speed is displayed on a sign and when driving through an emergency service speed zone.
The limit also applies while driving in school zones when children are present or passing a school bus that has stopped to set down or pick up children.
