Ask the Trooper

Question: While emergency vehicles, police, fire trucks and ambulances have to stop at a red light before proceeding, funeral processions continue through the intersection. Why are they allowed to do this?
Donald L. Singletary, East Earl

Answer: The vehicle code states that the driver of a vehicle in a funeral procession may proceed past a red signal indication or stop sign if the lead vehicle in the procession started through the intersection while the signal indicator was green or, in the case of a stop sign, the lead vehicle first came to a complete stop before proceeding through the intersection. The privileges apply only if each vehicle in the procession display lighted head lamps and emergency flashers and bear a flag or other insignia designating it as part of a funeral procession.

Question: My highway travel takes me onto a rural road. This two-lane road has the usual highway safety lines painted on them: the center yellow divides the lanes and a white line marks the road’s edge. I’ve noticed some residents on this road park their personal vehicles facing the oncoming traffic and are inches off the white line. Is this situation acceptable for the vehicle code?
Jim Boyle, New Kingston

Answer: As long as the vehicle is parked as close as practicable to the right edge of the shoulder or within 12 inches of the curb and not obstructing the roadway, the vehicle is legally parked. If the vehicle is a hazard, contact your local police department to have the vehicle removed.

Question: When construction closes one lane of a busy highway, when should drivers merge into the open lane? Upon the first notice of traffic building up in one lane, in which we can assume that is the open lane? Upon the first notice of a sign indicating which lane is closed? Or at the merge point? I’ve seen (and done) all three, and either felt guilty for zooming ahead or frustrated at those who sail by me. Several years ago, I saw "Stay in lane until merge point" signs, which made the expectation clear. Why aren’t they used more frequently? Thanks for clearing up the confusion.
Timm Wenger, Lancaster

Answer: Once you enter a construction zone and there will be a lane closure, enter and maintain the open lane upon notice. This will alleviate confusion and last minute lane changes on your part.

If you have a question for Pennsylvania State Police Trooper Linette Quinn, send it to:
Ask the Trooper c/o The AAA Touch
804 Estelle Drive
Lancaster, PA 17601
or send an email to aaatouch@aaacp.com.

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