You’re driving down the road and see flashing lights ahead on the shoulder, what do you do?
Did you know that you’re supposed to reduce speed and move over? Drivers who are approaching stopped emergency vehicles or tow trucks need to slow down and try to switch lanes if it is safe to do so.
Our first responders put their lives in jeopardy every time they stop on the side of the road. We need to make sure we are reducing the chances for injury by maintaining a safe distance.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that from 2007-2017, there were 634 law enforcement officers killed in such incidents. Every time law enforcement officers stop to help motorists, investigate a crash or conduct a traffic stop, they are putting their own lives at risk.
Moving over and giving space to emergency personnel isn’t just a courtesy—it’s the law and it can save a life. Losing one more officer to a traffic-related incident isn’t an option. These are preventable tragedies.
Breaking this law can award you with a misdemeanor charge and a fine up to $500. These emergency personnel work in dangerous situations all the time, but drivers really increase that risk for them when they zoom by and ignore the flashing lights—and the law. In 2017 alone, there were 47 law enforcement officers killed in traffic-related incidents. That’s why everyone needs to know the law and follow it: to protect those who protect us.
We need your help to ensure all drivers are aware of this violation. Let your family and friends know they can save a life and a fine by just moving over.