For 112 years, Powell Law has represented all types of personal injury victims in all types of personal injury cases and scenarios. If you have any questions about a potential claim for damages based on a personal injury, the attorneys at Powell Law have the necessary expertise and experience to handle your matter. Call today to consult with an experienced Pennsylvania personal injury attorney.
Motorists who drive on the roads and highways of Pennsylvania and encounter a situation on the road that involves an emergency responder must “Steer Clear” of the incident. Under Pennsylvania’s Steer Clear Law, motorists are required to move at least one lane away from an emergency situation unless otherwise directed by an emergency service responder. If unable to do so, motorists must immediately reduce their speed.
Emergency response areas are required by Pennsylvania law to be clearly marked with road flares, caution signs or any other traffic-control device which law enforcement officials may have available for their immediate use. “Emergency response area” is defined as the “area in which emergency service responders render emergency assistance to individuals on or near a roadway or a police officer is conducting a traffic stop or systematic check of vehicles as long as the emergency vehicle is making use of visual signals meeting the requirements of (Pennsylvania law).”
“Emergency service responder” includes any individual “acting in an official capacity as police officer, sheriff, deputy sheriff, coroner, deputy coroner, firefighter, fire police, fire marshal, medical examiner, deputy medical examiner, rescue personnel, ambulance personnel, towing and recovery personnel, highway maintenance and construction personnel, hazardous material response team member or emergency medical service personnel.” Thus, emergency responders may include law enforcement officers, tow truck operators, vehicles involved in emergency assistance, and Pennsylvania DOT personnel.
Drivers who fail to move over or reduce speed are subject to fines of up to $250. Also, it is important to note that drivers cited for traffic violations in this scenario face double fines. If any violation results in an officer, DOT worker, or other emergency responder suffering injury, a 90-day license suspension may also result.
If you or a loved one has suffered any type of injury resulting from any type of accident, contact Powell Law at (570) 961-0777 or visit us online. The attorneys and staff of Powell Law carry on the work of a law firm that spans generations and has represented thousands of Pennsylvanians over a period of 112 years. The consultation is free and you don’t pay any fees unless we win your case! Call today.
