CHARLOTTE, N.C. (May 13, 2019) – This week (May 12-17) is National Police Week and AAA Carolinas is reminding motorists to do their part in protecting law enforcement on the roads by obeying the “Move Over Law.”
This law is essential in protecting State Troopers and other law enforcement officers as well as emergency vehicles and utility workers stopped alongside the highway. The list of emergency vehicles protected by this law includes roadside assistance personnel, such as AAA tow trucks and service vehicles. It is also extended to highway workers in temporary work zones.
“The Move Over Law is in place to protect both the emergency crews that are stopped on the road to help someone else and motorists driving on the road,” said Tiffany Wright, AAA Carolinas spokesperson. “Adhering to this law will keep everyone safe.”
The law requires that drivers – if they deem it is safe to do so – move a lane away from any law enforcement or emergency vehicle on the side of the road. Law enforcement, emergency and utility vehicles should be stopped with lights flashing to alert drivers to move over.
It is also required that motorists slow down and approach cautiously when driving by a stopped emergency vehicle.
Drivers approaching a stopped emergency vehicle, law enforcement vehicle, utility vehicle or temporary work zone should:
- Significantly reduce their vehicle speed and keep vehicle under control.
- Approach the scene cautiously.
- If there is a second lane, motorists are required to change lanes away from the stopped vehicle.
- Maintain the reduced speed until fully clear of the situation.
Failure to adhere to the Move Over Law in North Carolina will result in a $500 fine along with the possibility of being charged with a felony if a collision occurs. Failure to adhere to the Move Over Law in South Carolina is considered a misdemeanor punishable by a fine of not less than $300 nor more than $500.
Emergency personnel workers put their lives at risk each day to keep the Carolinas safe and respond to all road incidents. The Move Over Law was established to protect those workers while on duty and therefore it is strictly enforced.
AAA Carolinas, an affiliate of the American Automobile Association, is a not-for-profit organization that serves more than 2.2 million members and the public with travel, automobile and insurance services while being an advocate for the safety and security of all travelers.
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