Share:
Senate Co-Sponsorship Memoranda
Senate of Pennsylvania
Session of 2021 - 2022
Regular Session
MEMORANDUM
| Posted: | December 15, 2021 09:59 AM |
|---|---|
| From: | Senator Doug Mastriano and Sen. Patrick J. Stefano |
| To: | All Senate members |
| Subject: | Allowing Blue Lights for Tow Truck Operators |
| In the near future, we plan to introduce legislation to allow tow truck operators to use rear-facing blue lights while responding to a disabled vehicle. Earlier this year, the “Move Over Law” that clarifies how motorists should react when approaching or passing an emergency response area was enacted. The idea for that legislation was inspired by the tragic story of a Pennsylvania tow truck operator who lost his life after being struck while responding to a disabled vehicle. Passage of the “Move Over Law” was a significant step in the right direction, but we believe that even more can be done to ensure safety for operators. Under current statute, only flashing or revolving yellow lights are permitted for tow trucks. Recent studies have demonstrated that drivers routinely ignore the sight of yellow or orange lights when encountered on the road. Blue lights elicit a different response from drivers and are far more visible in hazardous weather conditions. Blue lights give distracted drivers more time to see and react before a potential accident. Our bill will amend Title 75 to allow tow truck operators to use rear-facing blue lights while responding to a disabled vehicle. Please consider joining us as a co-sponsor. |
Introduced as SB1123