Move Over or Slow Down – New Changes to the Law

“Move Over or Slow Down” Change Begins September 1st

Texas motorists will have a new reason to “move over or slow down” on September 1st, when the law changes. Previously, motorists were required to change lanes (move over) or adjust their speed to twenty miles under the posted speed limit (slow down) when approaching and passing police, fire, or emergency vehicles. Whether you decide to change lanes (must leave the lane closest to the emergency personnel) or slow down, the law is designed to protect first responders who often find themselves in unsafe areas like the side of a highway. With this law, emergency personal can avoid the dangers of speeding traffic as they try to resolve the issue they stopped for in the first place.

Starting September 1st, the law will also include TXDOT crews in the umbrella of protection. When approaching these crews, motorists should move over in order to give the crews one lane of space or slow down to twenty miles below the speed limit. This will hopefully alleviate some of the accidents that have been caused over the years, including the deaths of several TXDOT workers

So don’t forget, Move Over or Slow Down – it’s the law!

image courtesy of davidsonscott15