Pennsylvania Law Expands Blue Lights on Roadside Assistance Vehicles

A new law signed July 20 by Gov. Josh Shapiro permits emergency roadside vehicles in Pennsylvania to be equipped with one or more flashing or revolving blue lights. The measure applies to light-duty service trucks assisting motorists, according to Safety+Health Magazine.

Prior Restrictions on Blue Lights

Before the new statute, blue lights were permitted only on volunteer firefighter vehicles or in combination with red lights on law enforcement and coroner’s office vehicles. In 2023, separate legislation first allowed tow trucks to use blue lights to improve roadside visibility.

Provisions of H.B. 1830

Rep. Robert Freeman (D-Northampton) sponsored H.B. 1830. The law extends the same blue-light authorization to light-duty service trucks performing roadside assistance. According to Safety+Health Magazine, the flashing blue lights are intended to alert motorists and create space for responders.

Sponsor Statement

Freeman stated in a press release that roadside assistance workers face increased risk of serious or fatal injuries while vehicles pass. He noted that these workers deserve the same protections previously extended to tow truck drivers. The law takes effect following the July 20 signing.