Move Over Law in New York
Did You Get a Ticket for Violating the Move Over Law?
You've probably encountered vehicles stopped on the roadside numerous times. But how do you handle these situations? Do you slow down, change lanes, or maintain your speed as you pass?
These considerations are crucial, especially with the updated New York Move Over Law as of March 2024. Now, any vehicle—be it an ambulance, police car, service truck, or others—stopped on the shoulder requires drivers to not only switch lanes but also significantly reduce their speed. This update aims to enhance road safety for everyone by enforcing stricter penalties for non-compliance.
If you were cited for violating the Move Over Law in Rockland County or anywhere in the State of New York, call a traffic ticket lawyer at the Law Office of Brian Berkowitz at (845) 638-9200 or contact me online right away.
What is the Move Over Law in New York?
New York's Move Over Law, outlined in VTL 1144-A (a), has recently been expanded to strengthen safety measures on the road. Previously, the law required drivers to use caution and move over for emergency vehicles, hazard vehicles, and law enforcement displaying red, white, blue, green, or amber flashing lights. However, as of March 2024, the law now mandates drivers must move over for any vehicle stopped on the shoulder, regardless of the vehicle type.
This critical update means that even if a passenger car or other non-hazard vehicle is disabled on the roadside, you are required to switch lanes to create a safer buffer. If changing lanes is unsafe or impractical due to heavy traffic, drivers must instead reduce their speed to a reasonable level while passing the stopped vehicle.
Key Details of the Move Over Law
The Move Over Law emphasizes taking action to protect all individuals, including emergency service providers, law enforcement, construction workers, tow truck operators, and now, everyday motorists who may find themselves stranded. Here’s what you need to know:
When to Move Over
- When you see lights, vests, or reflectors near a stopped vehicle.
- When approaching any vehicle—emergency, hazard, or civilian—stopped on the roadside.
How to Respond
- Safely switch lanes to create space between your vehicle and the roadside obstruction.
- If lane changes are impossible, slow down significantly to minimize the risk of collision.
Examples of Covered Vehicles
- Police cars, ambulances, and fire trucks.
- Tow trucks, highway maintenance vehicles, and garbage trucks.
- Private passenger vehicles stopped or disabled on the shoulder.
Penalties for Violations
The penalties for violating the Move Over Law have become stricter to ensure compliance and promote safety. Drivers caught failing to follow the law may face:
- A $275 fine.
- Three points added to their driver's license.
- The risk of increased insurance premiums due to the points added on their record.
Why is the Move Over Law Important?
This law is not just about avoiding fines—it’s about saving lives. Between 2016 and 2020, 37 individuals lost their lives outside of disabled vehicles on New York roads, while nationwide, nearly 300 people are struck and killed each year in roadside crashes. Traffic-related accidents remain a leading cause of injury and death for law enforcement and roadside workers, making the Move Over Law critical to their protection.
Governor Kathy Hochul reinforced the importance of this measure, stating, “The safety of all New Yorkers is my top priority… If you see that you are approaching a disabled vehicle, slow down and move over as best you can to give them some space.”
The new provisions aim to reduce these alarming statistics by expanding protections to everyone stopped on shoulders, sending a clear message about responsible driving.
Driving Responsibly Saves Lives
To abide by the updated Move Over Law, always stay alert for roadside vehicles. Be prepared to change lanes or reduce your speed to ensure the safety of those outside their vehicles. Responsible driving prevents accidents, protects lives, and keeps our roads safer for everyone.
Put 25 Years of Experience in Your Corner
Did you get a ticket? I am here to fight it. I have helped people in your position put their traffic tickets behind them and move forward in their lives, and will go the extra mile to help you achieve the same favorable outcome.
To get started, I urge you to contact my office at (845) 638-9200 to arrange a free consultation and learn about your options.