New legislation took effect on July 1, requiring drivers to slow to at least 40km/h when approaching and passing enforcement, emergency or escort vehicles that are moving slowly or stopped.

Kaniva Senior Constable Adrian Hoggett said motorists needed to pay more attention.

“The new rules have been in for a few months now,” he said.

“There’s been a few times where I’ve been parked and intercepting cars, and passing vehicles still aren’t slowing down.

“We really urge people to be aware of the laws.”

Under the new VicRoads legislation, the penalty for failing to slow to 40km/h when passing emergency service vehicles is $272.05, with a maximum court penalty of $777.30.

A loss of demerit points will not apply.

The legislation has been in place in South Australia since 2014.