New Law in PA: Turn Around, Don’t Drown!

Motorists who ignore temporary police barricades and drive through flooded areas during and after storms can now be fined in Pennsylvania, due to a bill passed in the PA House that was recently signed into law.

This is a major victory for our police and emergency workers who place their lives on the line to rescue drivers who ignore temporary barricades and become trapped in flood waters. This has become a growing problem that must be addressed.

Police in counties all over Pennsylvania have reported many motorists driving around road-closed signs, only to find themselves trapped by floodwaters. Often emergency responders are forced to come to the drivers’ rescue. In some cases, even the National Guard was called upon to rescue emergency responders who had gone into flood waters to rescue others.

The new law, dubbed the “Turn Around, Don’t Drown” measure, ensures that anyone who requires rescue, towing or medical care after ignoring a barricade or warning sign would be fined $250-$500 and have points assessed to their driving record.

The law takes effect in 60 days around Labor Day. The legislation, House Bill 2199, was introduced by Rep. Todd Stephens (R-Montgomery County.)