Traffic changes for passing emergency vehicles delayed

Some big changes for Alberta drivers have been delayed. 

Last year, changes were introduced to the Traffic Safety Amendment Act. These changes included different laws for passing emergency vehicles.

Earlier today, the Alberta government announced that they have delayed the initial start date of March 1 to September 1.

The reason for the delay was to give time to educate the public about the changes to prevent unneeded tickets.

On the start date, all vehicles travelling in the same direction as a stopped emergency vehicle, roadside worker, or tow truck, must slow down to 60 km/h or the posted speed limit, whichever is lower.  

"This change gives snowplow operators and roadside maintenance teams the same legislated protection as first responders, tow truck operators and construction crews," the province said in a release. "Having consistent traffic rules for all roadside workers also reduces confusion for motorists and increases highway safety."

Before the changes, only the closest lane to the emergency vehicle would need to slow down. Now, this law applies to every lane going in the same direction as the emergency vehicle. 

Vehicles will also need to slow down to 60 km/h when travelling in the opposite direction of stopped emergency vehicles if the road or highway has only one lane in each direction.

Current fines for passing an emergency vehicle on the side of the road can range from $136 to $826, depending on the speed.