In an effort to keep Indiana roadways safer, the Indiana State Police and The Indiana Department of Transportation are raising awareness for the state’s “Move Over Law”, which requires motorists to approach cautiously, slow down, and move over when an emergency vehicle is stopped on a roadway with emergency lights flashing. INDOT has a new video on its YouTube channel about the Move Over law https://youtu.be/U7enyx7RPF0 .
The “Move Over” law requires drivers to change lanes away from emergency vehicles, if you can do so safely. If not, drivers should reduce their speed 10 mph under the posted speed limit and proceed with caution. Motorists should not stop in the roadway, as this may cause a chain reaction rear end collision with other vehicles. Failure to comply can result in fines, license suspension, or even jail time. The “Move Over” law applies to these vehicles:
- Police vehicles
- Ambulances
- Fire trucks and rescue equipment
- Highway incident-response vehicles
- Highway maintenance vehicles
- Utility service vehicles
- Tow Trucks
Every year, first responders across the country are injured or killed on the job while providing emergency services to motorists along America’s highways. The “Move Over” law aims to increase safety for police, firefighters, paramedics, tow truck drivers, and all roadside emergency and maintenance professionals.
