Tow truck operator safety leading to possible change in law

There are calls for a change in legislation following a dangerous near-miss for one tow truck operator.

Last week, on the Trans-Canada near Belle Plaine an operator was nearly hit, running out of the way, when a semi ran over the orange pylons and warning signs that were out to indicate they were helping a motorist.

The operator was with Bear’s Towing out of Moose Jaw, the owner Doug Steppler argued there are too many lucky escapes for his team.

“He just barrelled right on by, never slowed down to the speed limit or anything like they are supposed to and basically ran over all the cones he had out marking the highway,” Steppler explained.

The Saskatchewan government is considering new legislation to outfit tow trucks with lights that flash amber and red.

“When we tested such light drivers seemed to slow down and move over and follow the rules, because I would assume they thought RCMP or someone similar was there,” Steppler said.

Tow trucks are currently only outfitted with amber flashing lights and Steppler believes something more is needed because so many vehicles have such additions.

“Unfortunately the general public seems to just not be too worried about it and ignore it because everyone has them.”

The law requires Saskatchewan drivers to slow to 60 kilometres per hour when passing a tow truck with its amber lights flashing.