Victoria’s 40km/h Road Law Expanded: What You Need To Know

For almost a decade, Victorian drivers have had to drop their speed down to 40km/h when passing the police, fire services, and ambulances by the roadside. Now, that law is being expanded.

The Victorian Government today announced it will change the definition of Road Rule 79A to include all emergency roadside assist workers, tow truck drivers, and their customers – as well as Triple Zero responders.

Motorists will now have to slow down to 40km/h when passing any stationary or enforcement vehicle with red, blue, magenta, or yellow flashing lights.

But while the regulation applies to traffic moving in both directions on a two-way road, the law only relates to drivers on the same side as a road worker or emergency responder if there is a median strip separating traffic direction.

The updated rule includes roadside mechanics – such as those from NRMA or RACV – as well as towing vehicles, Peninsula Link Incident Response, Eastlink Incident Response, and Transurban Incident Response vehicles.

“Victoria's emergency roadside workers and tow truck drivers are often the first and only responders to an incident or breakdown and are exposed to the same risks as other responders, such as police and paramedics,” RACV General Manager of Automotive Services Makarla Cole said in a written statement.

“I am sure every driver who has needed the help of an emergency roadside assistance worker or tow truck driver will be pleased to know that the Victorian Government is now protecting these essential responders in their workplace, and their customers.”

RACV has been lobbying the State Government to make the change since 2023.

While the rule was designed to improve the safety of first responders, drivers are reminded to check their rear-view mirrors and ensure there is sufficient space for heavy trucks to respond to any braking – particularly when at freeway speeds.