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November 8, 2019 by Greg Baumgartner
Everyone has seen cars disabled on the side of the road or pulled over by the police. Every year, dozens of police officers or first responders across the country are hurt or killed by another driver when they are on the side of the road.
Whether they are assisting another motorist, issuing a ticket, or responding to fires or other emergencies, emergency workers are vulnerable to injuries.
A law is in place in Texas to keep responders safe during traffic stops or when providing motorist assistance. The Move Over/Slow Down law requires drivers to move to another lane and slow down whenever they see emergency lights in use. Following the law will help protect others, avoid hefty fines, and prevent a car wreck.
The Move Over/Slow Down law was initially enacted to protect fire, ambulance, and police workers and keep them safe as they provide services to motorists or others on the roads. The law was updated in 2013 to include the protection of the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) workers.
The law requires drivers to move into a different lane to allow more room for emergency vehicles and personnel to pass. At the same time, drivers must slow down to at least 20 mph below the posted speed limit while passing.
The law was updated to include service utility vehicles, which include those used by TxDOT, tow trucks, power utility trucks, and vehicles for garbage and recycling, as of September 1, 2019.
These trucks sometimes need to perform work on the side of the road, as was necessary after Hurricane Harvey in 2017. If you are on a multi-lane road, you must merge away from the vehicle on the side of the road. This action provides a buffer area to protect personnel from being accidentally struck.
The Move Over/Slow Down law is enforceable by law enforcement officials. The penalties for failure to move over or slow down include fines of up to $200. If the situation damages property, the fine increases to $500. If the driver caused bodily injuries, it is a Class B misdemeanor. The driver could face jail time and fines of up to $2,000 if convicted of a crime.
Over the past year, police have intensified their efforts to enforce the law. Police regularly issue warnings and tickets to drivers who violate the law. A statewide campaign continues to educate the public about the law. For instance, highway overhead signs sometimes remind drivers to move over and slow down for emergency vehicles.
The goal is to prevent accidents and injuries caused by drivers who don’t pay attention to emergency services. Radio announcements, posters, and press materials will also raise awareness. Accidents can happen at any time.
If you get stranded on the side of the road, remain in your vehicle and call for assistance. Disabled trucks pose a danger to drivers, and always move as far off the roadway as possible if your car becomes disabled.
Recently, news reports have shown how many car accidents happen when police or other vehicles are helping others, such as the two people injured when a car crashed into a fire truck.
If you or someone you love gets hurt in an auto accident in Houston, contact the auto accident attorneys in Houston at Baumgartner Law Firm for help to get you the compensation you deserve for your case!
6711 Cypress Creek Pkwy, Houston, TX, 77069
(281) 587-1111
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Since establishing Baumgartner Law Firm in 1985, Greg Baumgartner has built a reputation as one of Houston’s leading personal injury attorneys, dedicated to representing severely injured victims and families who have lost loved ones due to negligence.
Greg holds two law degrees, a distinction earned by less than 1% of all attorneys, demonstrating his exceptional legal expertise. He is also a prestigious Trial Lawyers College graduate, further enhancing his skills in trial advocacy and litigation.
His relentless commitment to legal excellence and client advocacy has earned him recognition from prestigious organizations, including Super Lawyers, the Top 100 Trial Lawyers, and many others.
With decades of experience, Greg has consistently received top peer reviews. He holds a preeminent rating, a testament to his unwavering dedication to securing justice and maximum compensation for his clients.
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