As we get into winter, we’re likely to see increasingly more crashes and vehicles stopped on the side of the road. That means tow trucks, ambulances and other emergency vehicles will be out in force.
This is a good time to make sure you know about New Jersey’s “move over” law. Even if you think you know what it requires, it was amended recently to include even more situations.
Although this law, like similar ones in other states, is widely known as the “move over” law, it actually bears the name of a New Jersey paramedic who was struck and killed while he was responding to a roadside emergency. The law requires drivers to slow down and then move over at least one lane over any time they see flashing lights indicating an emergency vehicle on or next to the road.
The law can apply even if emergency services aren’t present
The same is now true if there is a stopped vehicle with its hazard lights on or road flares around it. Drivers are required to take the same precautions as they would if a tow truck or first responders were on the scene. This is meant to prevent people from being injured or killed if they pull over to change a flat tire or wait for help to arrive.
Drivers can receive a citation and be fined as much as $500 for not obeying the law. That’s if the driver doesn’t cause a crash or injure anyone. Certainly, the consequences can be far more serious if that happens.
Certainly, it’s smart for drivers to avoid interfering with anything occurring around a stopped vehicle or roadside emergency unless someone clearly needs help. However, when weather conditions are poor, visibility is limited and/or the roads are slippery, it’s not always possible to “move over” as the law requires. If you’re facing a citation or other consequences that you believe are unwarranted, getting legal guidance can be a wise choice.