Blue Light Pilot Exemption Extended in Alberta: A Positive Step Towards Tow Truck Safety
Introduction:
Tuber Towing is excited to share that Alberta has extended the Blue Light Pilot Exemption until February 2028. This extension reflects the government’s continued support for using blue lights on tow trucks to improve roadside safety. In this blog post, we will discuss the benefits of blue lights. We will also share more tips to improve roadside safety. These tips help tow truck operators and customers.
We provided a couple of updates when the exemption was first posted and again when it was amended. Here we are, amended again and even more blue on Tuber Trucks.
Updated Exemption can be found here: Feb 2023 Exemption Update
Blue Light Pilot Exemption: A Promising Update
Since Tuber Towing began using blue lights on our tow trucks, we have seen a positive change. Oncoming vehicles slow down sooner, especially when our traffic units support highway tow operations. More than half of our fleet now features blue lights, and we are continually evaluating their effectiveness.
They have extended the pilot an additional FIVE YEARS. This will provide more time to evaluate the impact these lights may have on our safety. We applaud the Alberta Government for making this decision!
While blue lights have proven to be valuable in many situations, they are not a one-size-fits-all solution for tow truck safety. We believe that a multi-faceted approach is necessary to ensure the well-being of our operators and customers. Here are some additional recommendations to bolster roadside safety:
Traffic Control by Towing Companies
Effective traffic control is essential for maintaining safety during roadside assistance and towing operations. Towing companies should invest in proper traffic control equipment, like cones, signs, and safety vests. This helps manage traffic flow around the incident area. By guiding traffic safely around the scene, the risk of accidents can be reduced.
Tied to this are effective processes and procedures within the company. Formal and ongoing training supports this. It helps ensure best practices are followed. Many of the situations Tow Truck operators work in are constantly changing, very diverse and carry immense risk. It is important that Towing Companies recognized this and take action to protect their teams!
Public Information and Education
Increasing public awareness of the risks tow truck operators face is crucial.
Safe driving near working tow operators is also important. Public information campaigns, social media outreach, and educational materials can teach drivers how to safely pass roadside tow trucks. This can include reminders about current laws, like the “Slow Down, Move Over” law. It can also encourage drivers to be more alert and respectful of tow truck operators.
An additional law will be implemented later this year.
It will require all drivers passing emergency vehicles, including tow trucks, to slow to 60 km/h.
This applies to all lanes, not just the lane beside the worker. This is another great step, but we have to continue banging he drum in the name of safety!
Enforcement by Police Agencies
Strong traffic law enforcement by police agencies is vital. It helps drivers follow the rules and put roadside safety first.This can include watching how drivers act near tow truck operators. It can also include issuing tickets for violations. Police can work closely with towing companies to promote safety rule compliance. This can include watching how drivers act near tow truck operators. It can include giving tickets for violations. It can also include working with towing companies to follow safety rules.
Recently, the Edmonton Police Service ran a pilot called Slow for the Tow. They went to scenes where tow operators worked. They enforced laws for drivers speeding past.
(CTV News Slow for Tow Article)
Conclusion:
The extension of the Blue Light Pilot Exemption in Alberta is a positive step for tow truck safety. Tuber Towing is encouraged by the government’s continued support. However, we recognize that blue lights are only part of the solution. By focusing on traffic control measures, public information and education, and strict police enforcement, we can create safer roadsides. This will help tow truck operators and customers.
