Harrisburg, PA – Pennsylvania State Police and the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) are reminding motorists about the importance of safety laws regarding bicycles, motorcycles, pedestrians, work zones, and emergency responders during Highway Safety Law Awareness Week, which takes place from February 18 to 24.
During an interview on “The Spark,” Trooper Megan Frazer, Public Information Officer with Troop H of the Pennsylvania State Police, and Fritzi Schreffler, Safety Press Officer with PennDOT, emphasized the need for motorists to be aware of and abide by these laws to prevent accidents and ensure the safety of all road users.
The discussion covered various aspects of safety laws, starting with bicycle regulations. It was highlighted that Pennsylvania law requires everyone under the age of 12 to wear a helmet when riding a bicycle. While this law is specific to children, PennDOT strongly recommends all cyclists wear helmets for their own safety. The conversation also touched upon the general bicycle laws, such as riding on the roadway, riding on the shoulder, and proper lane usage.
Moving on to motorcycle safety, the interview stressed the importance of the state’s motorcycle helmet law. Currently, Pennsylvania law requires anyone operating or riding a motorcycle to wear protective headgear, unless they are 21 years of age or older, have been licensed to operate a motorcycle for two full years, or have completed a motorcycle safety course approved by PennDOT or the Motorcycle Safety Foundation. The Pennsylvania Motorcycle Safety Program was also mentioned, which offers free safety courses to residents seeking to enhance their motorcycle skills.
The discussion further expanded to pedestrian safety, with an emphasis on the responsibilities of both pedestrians and motorists. The law states that pedestrians have the right-of-way when crossing the street in a crosswalk, and it is the driver’s responsibility to yield. However, pedestrians are also urged to be cautious and make eye contact with drivers before crossing. Other safety tips provided for pedestrians included obeying traffic signs and signals, wearing reflective clothing, and being aware of one’s surroundings.
Lastly, the interview covered work zone safety and laws pertaining to emergency responders. Motorists were reminded of the importance of traveling with headlights on in work zones and reducing speed as necessary. The Move Over Law, which requires drivers to pass emergency response areas at a reduced speed, was also discussed.
Throughout the interview, Frazer and Schreffler provided helpful tips and information to promote safety and prevent accidents on the road. They emphasized the need for all road users to be aware of and adhere to these laws for the well-being of themselves and others.
By raising awareness of these safety laws and promoting responsible behavior on the road, the Pennsylvania State Police and PennDOT aim to reduce the number of accidents and create a safer environment for everyone.