6/16/08-The Joint Committee on Transportation voted to refer a bill to the Senate Ways and Means Committee that would require motorists to maintain a safe distance and reduce speed when approaching stationary emergency vehicles by the road with their lights flashing.
Sponsored by Sen. James Timilty, D-Walpole, S2103 would require drivers to merge into a lane further away from an emergency vehicle. On two-lane highways, drivers would be required to reduce speed before passing the emergency vehicle.
Included in the protection would be highway maintenance and recovery vehicles.
Failure to obey the rule would result in up to a $100 fine.
For Senate bill status, call (617) 722-1276.