Move Over Law

This page outlines the Move Over Law, which mandates motorists to safely change lanes or reduce speed when approaching stationary emergency, maintenance, or recovery vehicles with flashing lights on highways.

The Move Over Law, outlined in Section 7C of the Massachusetts General Laws, requires drivers to take specific actions when approaching stationary emergency, maintenance, or recovery vehicles with flashing lights on highways. This page provides a comprehensive guide to understanding and complying with the law, including definitions of key terms, required actions for motorists, and penalties for violations.

Understanding the Law

The Move Over Law, established under Section 7C of Massachusetts General Laws, aims to enhance the safety of emergency responders, highway maintenance workers, and recovery personnel by mandating specific actions for motorists approaching stationary emergency, maintenance, or recovery vehicles with flashing lights on highways.

Key Definitions

This law requires drivers to proceed with caution and take appropriate measures to ensure the safety of emergency personnel and workers on the roadside. Failure to comply with the law may result in fines and penalties. Understanding the specifics of the law is crucial for all motorists to contribute to safer roadways for everyone.

Key Definitions:

• Emergency response vehicle: This includes fire apparatus, police vehicles, ambulances, or disaster vehicles.

• Highway maintenance vehicle: Vehicles used for maintaining highways and roadways, owned or operated by governmental entities or contracted parties.

• Operator: Any individual operating a motor vehicle as defined by state law.

• Person: Refers to natural persons, corporations, associations, partnerships, or other legal entities.

Understanding these definitions is essential for interpreting the scope and application of the Move Over Law.

Required Actions for Drivers

When approaching a stationary emergency, maintenance, or recovery vehicle with flashing lights on a highway, drivers must adhere to specific guidelines outlined by the Move Over Law. These actions are designed to enhance the safety of emergency responders, highway maintenance workers, and recovery personnel, as well as other motorists. Key actions include:

1. Proceed with due caution: Drivers must approach the stationary vehicle with caution, reducing their speed to that of a reasonable and safe speed for prevailing road conditions. This ensures that they have adequate time to react to any potential hazards and to avoid collisions.

2. Lane change when possible: If driving on a highway with at least four lanes, and two lanes are proceeding in the same direction as the driver's vehicle, drivers should make every effort to change lanes away from the stationary vehicle. This maneuver provides a buffer zone for emergency personnel and roadside workers, reducing the risk of accidents or injuries.

3. Reduce speed if unable to change lanes: In situations where changing lanes is impracticable due to traffic conditions or other factors, drivers must still proceed with caution. They should reduce their speed to ensure the safety of emergency responders and workers while passing the stationary vehicle.

By following these required actions, drivers can contribute to the safety of everyone on the road and help prevent accidents or injuries in emergency situations. Compliance with the Move Over Law is essential for creating a safer driving environment for all.

Penalties for Violations

Violating the Move Over Law can have serious consequences, both legally and in terms of public safety. The law imposes penalties to deter non-compliance and protect the lives of emergency responders, highway maintenance workers, and recovery personnel.

If a driver fails to adhere to the requirements of the Move Over Law, they may face the following penalties:

1. Fine: Violation of the law may result in a monetary fine of up to $100. This penalty serves as a deterrent to encourage compliance and emphasizes the importance of prioritizing safety on the road.

2. Legal Consequences: In addition to the financial penalty, drivers may also face legal consequences for violating the Move Over Law. These consequences can include points on their driving record, increased insurance premiums, and potential legal action if their actions result in harm to others.

3. Safety Risks: Non-compliance with the Move Over Law poses significant safety risks for both emergency responders and motorists. Failing to slow down or change lanes when approaching a stationary emergency, maintenance, or recovery vehicle with flashing lights increases the likelihood of accidents, injuries, and fatalities.

It is essential for drivers to understand the seriousness of violating the Move Over Law and to prioritize safety when encountering emergency situations on the road. By obeying the law and taking appropriate actions, drivers can help ensure the safety of everyone on the road and avoid the consequences of non-compliance.