PIERRE, SD – Two state agencies are reminding drivers of new penalties for driving on South Dakota highways that are officially closed because of winter weather. A law that took effect July 1 says violators can be assessed a $1,000 civil penalty and be required to pay up to $10,000 of the costs of rescuing them if they become stranded. Criminal penalties also are possible.
The acting superintendent of the Highway Patrol, Maj. Randy Hartley, says motorists who become stranded in a storm put rescue crews at risk. The Department of Transportation says stranded vehicles complicate and delay the snow removal process once the storm is over.
The acting superintendent of the Highway Patrol, Maj. Randy Hartley, says motorists who become stranded in a storm put rescue crews at risk. The Department of Transportation says stranded vehicles complicate and delay the snow removal process once the storm is over.
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