New Caltrans protection

California's Department of Transportation is alerting the public to a new law recently signed by the governor that requires motorists to move over or slow down when drivers see a Caltrans vehicle flashing its warning lights.

Senate Bill 240, sponsored by State Senator Roderick Wright, adds Caltrans vehicles displaying flashing amber warning lights to a list of vehicles for which motorists must slow down and, if safe, move over to a lane not immediately adjacent to the stationary vehicle.

"This protects the safety of our workers," said Caltrans Director Randy Iwasaki.

"Highway workers face the same dangers from fast-moving traffic as emergency personnel and tow-truck operators. We appreciate the leadership and recognition of the legislature and governor for the need to provide a safer working environment for our employees," Iwasaki said.

Since 1924, 174 Caltrans workers have lost their lives in the line of duty. The most recent fatality occurred July 23, 2009, when Caltrans worker Don Lichliter was struck and fatally injured by a passing truck on Highway 99 in Lodi.

To date, 45 other states have enacted similar laws requiring motorists to move over or slow down. Violation of the new provision is punishable by a fine of not more than $50.

The new law also makes the safety protections permanent by removing the sunset date of Jan. 1, 2010, from existing law.