RoadSmart Report | July, 2002

Revisions made to the rules of the road

Recent amendments to The Highway Traffic Act clarify the rules of the road regarding the use of emergency hazard lights, amber flashing lights and the placement of video, television or computer screens in a vehicle. The following will take effect Sept. 1, 2002.

Emergency Hazard Lights and Flares
A stationary or stranded vehicle, or equipment parked on a highway, must be marked as a hazard to other road users. If the vehicle is less than 206 cm wide (81 in.) the vehicle’s hazard lights are adequate. If the vehicle or equipment is over 206 cm wide (81 in.), or the vehicle is not equipped with hazard lights, rectangular retro-reflective flares must be set out.

Amber Flashing Lights or Beacons
Amber beacons or flashing lights are permitted on any vehicle but can only be activated when the vehicle is stopped on a highway, when it is necessary to do so for the safe operation of the vehicle or when the vehicle presents a hazard to other road users.

Video, Television or Computer Screens
A vehicle equipped with a video, television or computer screen, that is not displaying information solely designed to assist the driver, must have the screen located so that the image displayed is not visible to the driver and the screen itself does not obstruct the view of the driver.

These changes to The Highway Traffic Act are designed to make driving safer and less confusing for Saskatchewan motorists.

Contact:
Bernadette McIntyre, Assistant Vice President
Vehicle and Driver Safety
SGI
Regina
(306)751-1527