Blue Light Legislation a Step Closer in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania’s Senate Transportation Committee approved legislation by Senator Doug Mastriano (R-33) that would allow tow truck operators to use rear-facing blue lights while stationary and responding to a disabled vehicle. Under current statute, only flashing or revolving yellow lights are permitted for tow trucks.
Studies by the Texas Department of Transportation and the University of Michigan 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. They also give distracted drivers more time to see and react before a potential accident.
“I believe this legislation has the potential to cut down on roadside accidents and save lives in Pennsylvania,” said Mastriano. We’ve lost too many Pennsylvanians to roadside collisions. Allowing tow truck operators to utilize blue lights can have a profound effect on driver alertness. I’m proud to say bill SB 1123 has the full support of the PA Towing Association.”
The bill now heads to the full Senate for consideration.
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