The Queensland Government has announced new road rules to protect emergency services operating near roads. On 16 September 2022, these new rules will come into force across Queensland.
While the exact nuances are not yet known, the new rules will require drivers to slow down and move over when emergency service vehicles are present alongside the road. The penalty for not moving over and slowing down will be $432.00 and three (3) demerit points.
Queensland already requires motorists to keep clear and give way to emergency vehicles. It is unclear exactly how the new rules will differ from these existing rules. It may be that the new rules simply widen the scope of the existing rules to include other emergency vehicles. The new rules will extend to all services involved in an emergency, including ambulances, police cars, fire trucks, and transport enforcement vehicles, as well as breakdown assistance providers such as RACQ, tow trucks and assistance workers.
These new rules will bring Queensland in line with many other states who already have existing legislation concerning this point. Queensland, however, will have the most expensive penalty for failing to adhere to these new rules.
This announcement has been made during Queensland Road Safety Week which is an initiative that endeavours to reduce the number of fatal accidents on Queensland Roads each year.
The Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey has said that an education program will come into effect from 16 September 2022 so that motorists are aware of these changes.
If you find yourself receiving a fine under these rules or require assistance with any other form of traffic offending, we encourage you to contact our office for advice.
