I know that there are a lot of people that think that this should be a common courtesy or common sense but there are people that don't know that failing to do so could actually get you a ticket or worse.

Over the last few years there has been a big push to get the word out about New York States 'Move Over' law which according to NY.gov states:

  • As soon as you see lights, vests or reflectors, check traffic around you, SLOW DOWN and safely MOVE OVER.
  • Drivers MUST use due care when approaching an emergency vehicle or hazard vehicle including police vehicles, fire trucks, ambulances, construction and maintenance vehicles and tow trucks.
  • The Move Over Law applies to both sides of the roadway, not just the shoulder on the right.

 

For a while there it was like we couldn't go a couple of weeks let alone a couple of days without hearing and seeing a report on the news about someone getting hit on the major roadways. According to NEWS10 though it seems that the big push is working! Since implementing the law, the number of deadly crashes in New York has dropped from 1,045 to 969.

I am a big advocate for the 'Move Over Law' but I think we should implement it for everyone and every vehicle. I think probably one of the scariest things that can happen to you as a motorist is breaking down on a busy roadway. Not only do you have to worry about what's going on with your car but you have a multitude of vehicles flying past you at high speeds. Not to mention the fact that I couldn't even imagine having to live with myself if I didn't move over and accidentally struck someone.

Look I know sometimes it creeps up on you and you don't always see it in time to move over, things happen. It is however, probably just good practice to move over whenever you see any vehicle on the side of the road. That being said if you are in the next lane over or have already moved over and see someone needing to do the same, make some room and let them in everybody making it to their destination is more important than getting to that destination on time.

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