Recent Close Calls Remind Drivers To “Move Over” It’s The Law

There have been a recent series of events that have occurred in the state of Connecticut that are good reminders that it is the law that people who are driving down the highway and approaching an emergency vehicle that is stopped on the side of the road with lights flashing the on-coming traffic is required to “move over” one lane or slow down to a reasonable speed to pass safely.  If this isn’t done by the driver they can be cited for violating the law, but worse it can lead to a New Haven auto accident which could result in an injury or a fatality.

Recently there were a handful of incidents that occurred right here in Connecticut including;

1. A police cruiser sideswiped by a driver in Norwalk
2. On I-95 a police cruiser that was assisting a vehicle was crashed into
3. An officer was cut out of his vehicle after his cruiser was struck by another vehicle

These incidents, thankfully were close calls, but not all of them are and it is often first responders who are quite literally putting their lives on the line if you are not following the “Move Over” law.  This is a law that exists and is enforced in all 50 states in the country and it is designed to save the lives of those responding to broken down vehicles and issuing citations for traffic violations.

Too many incidents occur each year because drivers fail to follow the “Move Over” law and as a result officers, first responders, and emergency crew are injured, sometimes fatally.  This is a good reminder that if you are approaching a vehicle that has lights flashing that it is not only your responsibility to approach in a safe way, it is also the law.

There may be circumstances where you are unable to move over to the lane next to you and if that is the case it is your duty by law to slow down to a safe speed as you pass the emergency vehicle.  If you do not you can cited.

One final note on this, if you are trying to do the right thing and moving over to protect the lives of those who are responding to a vehicle on the side of the road, you should do it safely and in a way that will protect you and others on the road.  Signal before you change lanes, make sure you are clear to switch lanes and then make a smooth transition from one lane to another.  Making this transition safely will help protect you from a New Haven auto accident and will keep those around you safe as well.

Whether you’ve been injured in an accident involving the “Move Over” law or some other incident you may need an attorney that can review your case and work with you to protect your long-term interests.  Contact one of our experienced attorneys and they will work with you.