When you’re driving in Wisconsin, its important to give vehicles at the side of the road a wide berth. Not only is it a good idea for safety reasons, but it’s also the law. Wisconsin’s Move Over Law dictates a specific response to emergency and maintenance vehicles at work on the roadside, including trucks involved in towing other vehicles. Read on to learn all there is to know about the policy.

What Is It?

Wisconsin state law dictates that drivers must create a “safety zone” for squad cars, fire trucks, ambulances, towing vehicles, utility vehicles, or highway maintenance vehicles which are stopped at the side of the road. Creating a safety zone means either switching to the farther lane, if available, or slowing down.

Why Is It Needed?

The two straightforward options—increasing distance or reducing speed—make it significantly safer for emergency personnel and maintenance workers to do their jobs. It minimizes the chance that you’ll collide with an emergency response vehicle or its occupants, further complicating problems at the scene and endangering responders. This is essential because hundreds of responders have been injured or killed each year by incautious motorists, according to the state.

What Happens If You Fail to Comply?

If you don’t follow the Move Over Law’s requirements, the penalties can be unpleasant. The fine if you are ticketed is $249, and you’ll receive three points on your license. If you are not following the law and do hit someone, you face up to seven years in prison.

C. L. Chase 24 Hour Towing & Recovery in Camp Douglas, WI, appreciates your cooperation with the state’s Move Over Law. This prompt and professional towing service is here to help you out in any emergency, while their salvage yard also offers quality car parts and truck repair to get you back on the road. For 24/7 service, call them at (608) 427-6734, or learn more online.