March 22, 2009 marks the implementation of the new Move Over Law, which is 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 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 important follow this safe driving behavior no matter where you’re driving.
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Source: MA Executive Office of Public Safety