Shocking dash cam footage highlights need for drivers to slow down

Published | 8 May 2024

We released some shocking dash cam footage today supporting our call for motorists to slow down when approaching roadside patrols and emergency service vehicles.

Our Group Chief Executive Mark Mugnaioni said the roadside assistance provider’s teams often found themselves in precarious situations like in the footage, when responding to roadside rescues across the state.

“Most Tasmanians wouldn’t expect to have a speeding vehicle fly through their workplace, so why should our roadside and emergency service workers experience this,” Mr Mugnaioni questioned.

“This horrific vision highlights the risk Tasmania’s roadside workers face when motorists don’t follow the law and slow down around roadside assistance and emergency vehicles.

"We implore motorists to slow down and provide these professionals with the necessary space to undertake their work safely," Mr Mugnaioni said.

Motorists must slow down to 40 km/h when passing stationary or slow-moving roadside assistance or emergency vehicles displaying red, blue, or yellow flashing lights on roads with speed limits of 80 km/h or less, according to Tasmania’s road rules.

On roads with speed limits exceeding 80 km/h, drivers must reduce to a safe and reasonable speed while maintaining a safe distance from the roadside assistance or emergency vehicle.

Mr Mugnaioni said adherence to the guidelines was paramount to ensure the safety of roadside workers, emergency responders, and those receiving assistance.

“It’s a common occurrence that our teams are faced with speeding vehicles while attempting to rescue someone on the roadside.

“We need Tasmanians to understand the risk they’re putting roadside assistance patrols and emergency workers under when they don’t slow down.

"By slowing down, drivers can significantly contribute to maintaining road safety for everyone.”

RACT encouraged drivers to familiarise themselves with the regulations and exercise extra caution when approaching emergency and roadside assistance vehicles.

"National Road Safety Week serves as a vital reminder for all of us to play our part in safeguarding the lives of those dedicated to keeping us safe on the roads.

"With Tasmanian road fatalities tragically totalling 35 last year, it’s crucial we all take responsibility to reduce these devastating statistics."