Moving Over—It's Not Just Polite...
It's the Law

For many professional truck drivers, moving over for emergency vehicles stopped along the roadside has always been common courtesy.  In all but a few states, it's now also the law.

Over 150 law enforcement officers have been killed since 1997 after being struck by vehicles along the roadside.  This has prompted officials in many states to pass "Move Over" laws. 

Even though "Move Over" laws have been around for several years, the general public doesn't know about them.  According to a national poll conducted by Mason Dixon Polling and Research, 71 percent of Americans have not heard of "Move Over" laws.  To get the message out, a new coalition of traffic safety and law enforcement groups have launched a public awareness campaign.  More information about the Move Over, America Campaign is available at www.moveoveramerica.com.

 "Move Over" laws require motorists to change lanes to give safe clearance to law enforcement officers and other emergency responders on roadsides.  If drivers can't change lanes or are driving on a two-lane road, they must slow down at least 20 m.p.h. below the posted speed limit.  Drivers who do not move over or slow down as required are subject to penalties that can include hefty fines, license suspension, or even jail time.

Without a doubt, stopping on the side of the road is dangerous for anyone.  To avoid this danger, no motorist should stop along the side of the road unless there is a legitimate emergency.  In the interest of safety, even though "Move Over" laws are intended to protect law enforcement officers and other emergency responders, the same courtesy should be extended to any motorist or pedestrian on the side of the road.  The next time you encounter a vehicle or person along the side of the road, move over if possible or slow down to a safe speed before passing.