As of 2019, all 50 states in America have passed a “Move Over Law.” This type of law requires drivers to move over and change lanes to give a safe clearance to any emergency vehicles including law enforcement officers, firefighters, and ambulances. In a lot of states, it also applies to utility workers, maintenance vehicles, and tow-truck drivers, as well.
Move over laws in the US originated in 1994 after a paramedic in South Carolina was hit and injured while responding to an emergency. The paramedic was listed at fault, which then led to the creation of a law designed to protect emergency responders. Similar situations occurred across America. More than 150 law enforcement officers have been struck and killed in traffic-related incidents. This led to every state enacting some form of a “Move Over” law.
The basic premise of move over laws is similar in all 50 states. If you approach an emergency vehicle or tow truck assisting another vehicle on the side of the road, you should change lanes into an available lane not immediately adjacent to the emergency vehicle. If it’s not possible to change lanes, slow down to a reasonable speed based on the current weather conditions, road conditions, and traffic conditions. If you violate your states “Move Over” law, you can be cited. Fines can be as high as $500. If you are unsure as to what your specific state’s exact law is, err on the side of caution. Slow down and move over. People’s lives are at stake, and it’s always better to exercise caution when driving near pedestrians, especially at high speeds.
Simply put, if you see emergency flashers, move over. This will signal other drivers behind you to follow suit and will move over, as well. Don’t be part of the estimated 71 percent of people that have not heard of “Move Over” laws. Being ignorant to such important safety laws can not only lead to a traffic ticket, it can result in much more serious situations such as someone being seriously injured or killed.