New California Law Helps to Protect Caltrans Workers

Caltrans wants the public to know about a new law signed by the governor that requires motorists to move over or slow down when they see a Caltrans vehicle flashing warning lights.  The new law, Senate Bill 240, adds Caltrans vehicles displaying flashing amber warning lights to the list of vehicles for which motorists must slow down and, if safe, move over to a lane not immediately adjacent to the stationary vehicle.  “This protects the safety of our workers,” said Caltrans Director Randy Iwasaki.  “Highway workers face the same dangers from fast moving traffic as emergency personnel and tow-truck operators.”  Since 1924, 174 Caltrans workers have lost their lives in the line of duty.  To date, 45 other states have enacted similar laws requiring motorists to move over or slow down.  Violation of the new provision is punishable by a fine of not more than $50.