In Pennsylvania, the move-over law (Title 75, Section 4572.2) requires drivers to give way by changing lanes or moving over in the presence of a stopped emergency or service vehicle.
Law enforcement officers, ambulances, firefighters, and utility workers are all entitled to the right of way and a cleared lane whenever they are stopped on the side of a road. In some cases, motorists must give way to disabled vehicles and tow-truck drivers.
Is It The Law To Move Over For Emergency Vehicles?
Drivers need to slow down after seeing an emergency or disabled vehicle on the side of the road. Drivers approaching an emergency or disabled vehicle should move into the other lane if it is safe to do so.
They can detect emergency response areas where emergency vehicles are operating. Emergency vehicles with flashing lights will be parked. Authorities may also post signs to warn travelers.
Drivers who are not able to safely move over into another lane must slow down to no more than 20 mph and which is the below-posted speed limit.
Are Vehicles Covered by the Pennsylvania Move Over Law, 2021?
In 2020, the Move over law act (105) took effect on October 29th. The law took effect on April 27th, 2021. It safeguards motorists whose cars have broken down.
The move-over law includes disabled vehicles if they display at least two of the following :
- Flashing hazard lights indicating the hazards;
- A caution sign or other traffic control device;
- Road flares.
The previous law only required drivers to move to the side of the road when they saw an emergency vehicle with sirens or when flashing lights approached.
What Happens When You Fail To Move Over For An Emergency Vehicle In PA?
Failure to slow down or change lanes for a stopped emergency vehicle in Pennsylvania carries severe consequences and heavy penalties. You may be fined up to $500 for the first offense and up to $1,000 for the second offense.
For third and subsequent offenders, there will be a fine of $2,000 and a 90-day license suspension. These penalties for move-over law violations may also increase when it involves an accident or when a person dies.
Need Legal Help? Contact The Law Offices Of Greg Prosmushkin
Our motor vehicle accident attorneys have experience representing accident victims and helping them understand the move-over law in PA. Please message us online or call us at (215)-799-9990 to schedule a free case consultation.