New social media feature highlights lesser-known Pennsylvania driving laws
Lansdale Police are continuing their “LPD Traffic Talk” series with a new installment focused on funeral procession laws — an area officers said is often misunderstood by drivers.
In this week’s post, the department said the topic was not originally planned but was chosen due to frequent confusion, particularly among younger drivers who may have had limited exposure to funeral processions.
Police noted that while most motorists do not intentionally disregard processions, many simply do not recognize them or understand the rules.
Under Pennsylvania law, drivers in a properly formed funeral procession are granted certain privileges.
Vehicles may proceed through red lights or stop signs, as long as the lead vehicle entered the intersection legally. Procession vehicles are also permitted to park or stand regardless of typical traffic restrictions.
Those privileges apply only when specific conditions are met. Each vehicle in the procession must have headlights and hazard lights activated and display a flag or other identifying insignia.
The law also permits funeral directors or their representatives to use flashing or revolving purple lights to further identify procession vehicles.
Police emphasized that despite these allowances, drivers in a funeral procession must still yield to emergency vehicles using lights and sirens and operate with regard for public safety.
With funeral processions becoming less common and often smaller in size, Lansdale Police encouraged drivers to remain attentive, slow down, and allow processions to pass safely.
The department’s ongoing “Traffic Talk” series continues to provide guidance on traffic laws and safe driving practices through its Facebook and Crimewatch platforms.
