What Is the Move Over Law?
Learn about the Move Over Law and get answers to frequently asked questions.
The Move Over Law exists to provide a safer environment for vehicles who are stopped along the side of highways, close to fast moving traffic. Collisions can be prevented by leaving enough space for them. To gain a full understanding of the Move Over Law, read the FAQs below:
Move Over Law
FAQs
What is the Move Over Law?
The Move Over Law requires drivers to move over a lane when safe or slow to a responsible speed, when passing vehicles with flashing amber lights. This includes stationary vehicles like California Department of Transportation vehicles, emergency vehicles, tow trucks and ANY stranded motorist on the side of the road.
This law helps ensure that motorists, workers and emergency personnel are safe while working on the roads.
- The Move Over Law now applies to any motorist in distress with warning lights or devices.
- Move Over: Move to an adjacent lane (left or right) when approaching a stationary vehicle with flashing lights.
- Slow Down: If you are unable to move over lanes safely due to traffic or other obstacles, you should significantly reduce your speed and proceed with extreme caution.
What types of vehicles should I Move Over for?
Any stationary vehicle displaying hazard, emergency or warning lights, cones or flares. This includes, but is not limited to:
- A stationary, marked Department of Transportation vehicle that is displaying flashing amber warning lights.
- A stationary authorized emergency vehicle that is displaying emergency lights.
- A stationary tow truck that is displaying flashing amber warning lights.
- Stranded motorists
What about an emergency vehicle that is approaching from behind me?
Drivers are required to pull over to allow a moving emergency vehicle to pass. However, the Move Over Law refers to stationary vehicles displaying emergency or warning lights, such as those that are defined in the previous answer.
What action/maneuver does the Move Over Law require of drivers?
The Move Over Law requires that, if an officer is not directing traffic, a person driving a vehicle on a freeway approaching one of the aforementioned vehicles is required to approach with caution and make a lane change into an available lane (not immediately next to the authorized emergency vehicle, tow truck, or Department of Transportation vehicle) with regard for safety and traffic conditions.
What if it is unsafe to Move Over?
If the maneuver described above would be unsafe, slow to a reasonable speed that is safe for existing weather, road, and vehicular or pedestrian traffic conditions.
What if the authorized vehicle is separated from the freeway by a protective physical barrier?
The requirements of the Move Over Law generally do not apply in this case. Still approach the area with due caution.
What are the potential consequences of not following road safety rules?
Serious consequences include fines, increased insurance rates but most importantly, the potential for severe and fatal injuries to both drivers and workers.
What can one do to be safe?
- Be aware of your surroundings. Look ahead and anticipate potential hazards.
- Do not drive distracted.
- Slow Down, Move over. If you see any vehicle with flashing lights, move over to the next lane if it’s clear, and safe to do so. If you cannot move over, significantly reduce your speed.
What is Caltrans doing to educate drivers about the Move Over Law?
In July 2011, Caltrans launched the Move Over campaign to increase motorists awareness of the law.
References:
California Department of Motor Vehicles