As of Saturday, September 1 NSW motorists will be required to slow down to 40km/h near emergency vehicles.
The 40km/h slow down rule currently applies to school zones, many work zones and high pedestrian activity areas.
Transport for NSW said from Saturday, the slow down rule will be extended to motorists passing a parked emergency services vehicle with blue or red flashing lights on all roads.
The rule is being trialled for 12 months to ensure "emergency workers can do their work without worrying about being struck by a passing vehicle".
Those drivers found violating the rule will be lose three demerit points and receive a $448 fine. There is also a maximum court penalty of $2200.
"This is comparable with the current penalty when it is determined that a motorist has driven negligently in the presence of obstructions or hazards, including stopped emergency vehicles and personnel," Transport for NSW said in a statement.
'Responsibility of all drivers to be aware'
The transport authority said drivers are expected to assess the situation to decide when a sufficient distance has been reached away from the emergency vehicle to resume normal speed.
"For example, a fire truck may be stationed by the roadside with flashing lights and firefighters may be managing a fire a short distance away from the vehicle," according to published guidelines.
"In this instance, motorists should not increase their speed until they are fully past the vehicle and the emergency workers.
"In contrast, motorists will be required to slow down to 40km/h for a shorter distance when passing a police vehicle that has pulled over another vehicle on the side of the road."
If the emergency vehicle is parked on a median strip, then it applies to vehicles on both sides of the road.
Review to consider impact on driver awareness
A television, radio and social media campaign has been running since July 30.
Transport for NSW will be leading the 12-month review to measure the impact of the rule on "driver awareness of the law and community attitudes, as well as any unintended consequences".
The outcomes of similar rules applied in other Australian jurisdictions will also be considered.
The evaluation report will inform the state government's policy on improving road safety outcomes.
