INCIDENT MANAGEMENT LEGISLATION SIGNED INTO LAW

 HARRISBURG, DEC. 9 – Legislation designed to make the roadways safer for motorists and emergency services providers, as well as ensure accidents are cleared as quickly as possible was signed into law this week, according to state Sen. Connie Williams, who wrote the language.

 “This new law is designed to cut down on the number of traffic tie-ups and secondary accidents that often occur following a traffic accident,” Williams said. “It will make roadways safer for motorists, crash victims and emergency service responders.”

 Williams worked closely with Reps. Kate Harper and Eugene McGill to write the language that was included in House Bill 873 (Act 237 of 2004), following hearings on the issue earlier this year.

 “Traffic accidents, no matter how minor, are unpleasant and often tragic for those involved,” Williams said. “The situation only worsens if a second accident happens as a result of the first, or if someone who has responded to the scene to help the victim, becomes a victim.”

 Williams added that the southeast region of the state has very busy roadways normally, but when a traffic incident occurs, traffic can come to a standstill, with backups stretching for miles.

 The new law clarifies the responsibilities of motorists involved in accidents that do not result in apparent serious injury or death to ensure that vehicles are removed from the roadways immediately. Additionally, it allows local law enforcement to more quickly moved abandoned vehicles that are obstructing traffic and ensures that any cargo left at the scene of an accident is properly handled and stored.

 “This law gives law enforcement officers the tools they need to better manage our roadways,” Williams said. “And it ensures that already busy roads are useable and safe at all times, which is critical to economic development in the region.”

 The portions of the new law dealing with incident management take effect 60 days from the governor signing. He signed the bill Dec. 8^th.