Drivers must slow to 60 km/h when passing roadside workers in Alberta

Alberta drivers will be expected to stop and slow down when stopped by roadside workers, or face a $243 fine and points against their license.

From the beginning of September, the Traffic Safety Act will be expanded to include protecting roadside workers from injuries and collisions while on the job.

Drivers in the lane closest to the roadside worker will have to do 60 km/h when the lights flash.

Alberta Transportation and Economic Corridors Minister Devin Dreeshen said the government wants to protect police, paramedics, maintenance workers and tow truck drivers so they can get home safely at the end of the day.

The act originally protected tow truck drivers and first responders, but will now include snow plow operators and roadside maintenance workers.