SLOMO speed provides protection for roadside emergency workers

• Slow Down, Move Over (SLOMO) laws commence tomorrow
• 40kmh speed limit to protect roadside emergency workers 

Road Safety Minister Michelle Roberts today observed the critical role speed plays in the ability of drivers to stop.

Drive Safe Australia carried out the controlled demonstration at the Perth Motorplex in Kwinana, to highlight the importance of slowing drivers down to protect roadside emergency workers.

From tomorrow (March 2), Western Australian drivers will be required to slow down to a maximum of 40kmh when passing stationary emergency vehicles with lights activated on the roadside.

The SLOMO laws apply when passing Western Australia Police Force, Department of Fire and Emergency Services, St John Ambulance, roadside assistance, tow trucks and Main Roads Western Australia incident response vehicles that are responding to any roadside emergency across the State.

On a dry road in good conditions when travelling at 60kmh, the average family car requires about 45 metres to come to a complete stop.

The stopping distance is trimmed to about 26 metres for an average family vehicle travelling at 40kmh, reducing the risk of serious injury or even death in the event of a crash.

The penalty for not slowing down is $300 and three demerit points.

WA Police will also enforce double demerit points from midnight tonight until midnight on Monday (March 5) for the Labour Day long weekend.

Comments attributed to Road Safety Minister Michelle Roberts:

"Put simply, the faster you go, the longer it takes to stop.

"Our emergency workers are there to help, and they deserve our respect and protection.

"Not only does this law fulfil an election commitment, it brings Western Australia in line with other States around the country."

Minister's office - 6552 6900