HARRISBURG, March 24 – The state House Transportation Committee approved legislation Monday that would expand state law to allow more vehicles to use blue safety lights in order to increase the visibility of roadside assistance vehicles, according to prime sponsor state Rep. Robert Freeman.

Current state law only allows vehicles identified as “tow trucks” to operate blue lights while the truck is stationary on the side of the road or highway while responding to a disabled vehicle.

“The flashing blue lights get the attention of motorists so that they provide ample room to the responders providing roadside assistance,” said Freeman, D-Northampton. “Although AAA Club light-duty trucks do not have towing capabilities, they regularly pull vehicles out of stuck positions, such as mud, snow, or other difficult terrain.

Freeman introduced H.B. 1830 to extend to light-duty service trucks the same ability—as presently provided to tow trucks—to display blue lights on their light bars and taillights while they are stationary on the side of the road rendering assistance.

“The fleet of roadside assistance vehicles operated by AAA Clubs provides multiple forms of assistance to stranded motorists, including fuel delivery, flat tire replacement, and battery replacement, among others. It is important that roadside assistance vehicles be provided the same opportunity to operate blue safety lights as they carry out their often-hazardous duties in aiding stranded motorists along Pennsylvania roads and highways,” he said.

Freeman learned of the narrow interpretation of state law regarding blue safety lights from the Northampton County AAA Club, which is active in his district.

House Bill 1830 moves to the full state House of Representatives.

Information provided to TVL by:
Tom Andrews