March 22, 2009, marks the implementation of the new “Move Over Law” in Massachusetts, designed to help protect police, firefighters, paramedics, tow truck drivers, and all roadside emergency and maintenance workers.

The law requires all drivers approaching a stationary emergency or maintenance vehicle with flashing lights to move to the next adjacent lane if it is safe to do so and, if that is not possible, to reduce their speed. There is no speed specified. Failure to comply is expensive. In addition to facing a fine of up to $100, it is considered a moving violation, which can increase your insurance costs.

Every year, first responders across the country are injured or killed while providing emergency roadside help. In the past six months alone, several Massachusetts state troopers have been injured on the job. Obeying the law protects officers and roadside workers, as well as all drivers, from needless injury or even death.

Massachusetts is the 44th state to adopt such a law, so it’s essential to follow this safe driving behavior no matter where you drive.

For more information, go to: Move Over Law and www.mass.gov/highwaysafety

Murphy Insurance cares about your safety and strives to keep you informed about issues that impact your life. Please forward this to your family and friends if you found it helpful.

SourceMA Executive Office of Public Safety

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