California adopts Slow Down to Get Around legislation

California became the 23^rd state to adopt Slow Down to Get Around legislation, AB 2115, aimed at making California roads safer for waste and recycling collection workers. 

The law requires motorists approaching and passing a stationary solid waste collection vehicle to reduce and maintain a safe speed for weather, road conditions and traffic in order to proceed with due care and caution. It also provides for the use and display of amber lights.

“Slow Down to Get Around laws carry an important message: Take your time and slow down around garbage trucks. We applaud California for joining 22 other states that have now passed similar laws that serve as a national best practice to prevent unnecessary accidents and injuries,” National Waste and Recycling Association (NWRA) President and CEO Darrell Smith says.   

NWRA member companies have been diligent in providing advanced safety training for drivers and those who hop off the trucks to make collections, the organization says. However, distracted drivers operating near a collection truck are a major hazard for waste collection workers.

Sponsored by California Assemblyman Miguel Santiago, AB 2115, was passed by the California Legislature and signed into law on September 23, 2018. It will become effective Jan. 1, 2020.