PENNDOT and the Pennsylvania State Police have issued a warning to motorists that it is illegal to park a vehicle or to stand along Interstate 99 to watch the July fireworks displays at area amusement parks.
Roger Dodson, traffic engineer for PENNDOT’s District 9, explained the Pennsylvania Vehicle Code prohibits motorists from standing or parking a vehicle along any portion of a limited-access highway, such as Interstate 99.
“Parking along an interstate highway creates a potentially dangerous situation when motorists are slowing to pull onto the shoulder or are attempting to pull out into high-speed traffic,” said Dodson.
Interstate 99 is posted with a 65 mph speed limit, except through the Altoona area which is 55 mph.
PENNDOT will place orange cones along the shoulders of portions of I-99 to emphasize to motorists that parking along the expressway is illegal.
This year, the State Police will have patrols along I-99 during the fireworks displays at both DelGrosso Park at Tipton and Lakemont Park near Altoona. Both amusement parks are located in close proximity to the Interstate.
Violators may have their vehicles towed immediately and may be cited for related traffic violations.
In an effort to promote safety during the Fourth of July weekend, law enforcement officials will be out in full force on Pennsylvania’s highways. Police patrols will crack down on holiday speeders, tailgaters and drunk drivers.
There will be more motorists on the highway this weekend and PENNDOT urges motorists to drive safely and responsibly.
“Being aware, alert, patient, calm and ready to handle any situation – that’s driving smart,” said Dodson. “Unless you’re constantly aware of everything going on around you and are in total control of yourself and your car, you’re simply not driving responsibly and you raise the risk of injuring yourself and others.”
