Did you know that every state, including North Carolina, has Move Over laws? This means you can be fined if you fail to move over or change lanes when an emergency vehicle approaches. Towing vehicles are also included in these laws, so it’s important that you understand and follow the rules of the road accordingly. The brief guide below highlights some of the details.

A Guide to Move Over Laws

What Are They?

If you’re driving on the highway and see a fire truck, ambulance, or police car stopped on the road, state law requires the motorist to slow down and move one lane away from the emergency vehicle if it’s safe and possible to do so. What many drivers may not know is that towing vehicles displaying the amber warning lights are also protected in Move Over laws.

The Move Over Law was created to protect emergency responders and other workers doing their job on the side of the road from oncoming traffic. Initially, the law was created for law enforcement and emergency vehicles, but expanded to provide protection for utility crews, DOT workers, and towing vehicles.

What Happens If Drivers Fail to Comply?

When approaching stationary emergency vehicles, the law requires motorists to either move out of the lane adjacent to the emergency vehicle or slow down to a reasonable speed if the road does not have multiple lanes. Failure for motorists to comply with the law results in a mandatory fine of $250, plus court costs. In the event of an accident, license suspension and jail time are possible penalties for motorists convicted on Move Over law charges.

Remember to follow Move Over laws the next time you see designated emergency vehicles stopped on the highway or road. Garrett's Towing & Recovery in Thomasville, NC, is a leading local towing service that offers car lockout assistance, tire changes, and jump starts to help get you back on the road. To learn more about the towing company, visit their website, or call (336) 476-3153 to request assistance today.