WEST READING, Pa. – Roadside assistance workers face danger every time they respond to a stranded driver. Now, a new Pennsylvania law will help to make them more visible.

Monday, Gov. Josh Shapiro signed legislation allowing roadside assistance vehicles to use “flashing blue safety lights” while stopped on the side of the road.

Whether it’s a flat tire, dead battery or lockout — every roadside call puts technicians just feet from speeding traffic. Supporters say the blue lights will help drivers see them sooner.

The blue lights flash while service vehicles stop on the side of the road or highway while responding to a disabled vehicle, increasing visibility of the workers and helping to protect them from passing drivers.

Currently, only vehicles identified as “tow trucks” are able to use the blue lights. Democratic state Rep. Robert Freeman, who represents the 136th district in Northampton County, was the prime sponsor of the bill to expand use of the lights.

He explained in a statement, “Roadside assistance workers performing any roadside service while cars quickly pass by are at an increased risk of serious or fatal injuries. They deserve the same protections as tow truck drivers and flashing blue lights would provide motorists with a critical visual cue to slow down and move over.”

A recent survey of roadside professionals by AAA revealed that nearly 30% of towing industry respondents reported encountering near-miss incidents daily, and over 55% experienced a near-miss every week. This rate was higher than all other roadside worker categories, including law enforcement, fire crews and EMS.

AAA Reading Berks, in a statement to 69 News, said, “We strongly believe House Bill 1830 will be a useful tool to keep our roadside workers safe.”

Freeman said in the same statement, “It is important that roadside assistance vehicles be provided the same opportunity to operate blue safety lights as they carry out their often-hazardous duties in aiding stranded motorists along Pennsylvania roads and highways.”

The law takes effect in 60 days.