modify requirements for a vehicle approaching a vehicle that is stopped or occupying the shoulder of the highway with warning lights flashing.

Drivers face roadside safety rules

South Dakota law sets driving rules that protect people in stopped vehicles and vehicles occupying highway shoulders. Unless directed otherwise, drivers must stop before reaching a stopped authorized emergency vehicle showing red signals. They may continue cautiously only after checking that it is safe. For vehicles stopped or occupying the shoulder with amber, yellow, or blue warning lights, different rules apply unless otherwise directed. On interstates or highways with multiple lanes going the same direction, drivers must move into the farthest lane at least 300 feet before reaching the vehicle. On two-lane highways, drivers must slow at least 300 feet before reaching it, to at least 20 mph below the posted limit. If the limit is 20 mph or less, they must slow to at least 5 mph below it. Drivers must proceed cautiously. Violations are Class 2 misdemeanors with a minimum $270 fine. Causing a crash involving one of these vehicles while violating these rules is a Class 1 misdemeanor.