CHAT News File Photo

By Chris Brown

Traffic Safety Act changes protecting roadside workers take effect Friday

Aug 31, 2023 | 5:02 PM

Changes to roadside safety rules in Alberta take effect on Sept. 1.

The province announced changes to the Traffic Safety Act earlier this year to better protect all roadside worker vehicles with flashing lights stopped on the side of the road.

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Under the new rules, drivers in lanes closest to roadside worker vehicles are required to slow down to 60 km/h or the posted speed limit if slower or move to the far lane if safe to do so.

Those who don’t are subject to a $243 fine and demerit points against their license.

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The rules for passing snowplows are also changing.

Drivers must not pass a snowplow when the view along the side of the snowplow is obstructed, passing would impede the operation of the snowplow or you can’t safely pass.

Drivers who don’t comply could receive a $324 fine and demerit points.