‘Move Over’ Law Crackdown in New York

Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo has announced that the state has started a week-long campaign to really increase our awareness of the "Move Over" law.

The "Move Over" law was put into effect back in 2011 and requires all drivers to use care, slow down and safely move over when approaching law enforcement vehicles, fire trucks, ambulances, tow trucks, construction and maintenance vehicles that are stopped along the road.

The law was put in place to protect law enforcement and emergency services personnel from other vehicles and over the past few years has been expanded to include more emergency and hazard vehicles.

Governor Cuomo said in a press release that,

The work performed by these first responders and workers is critical to the safety of our roadways and the motorists who use them. Every precaution must be taken to reduce the danger already inherent in these hazardous jobs and avoid preventable tragedies. With this aggressive statewide campaign, we send a clear message that there is zero tolerance for reckless driving that places these essential workers in harm's way.

The campaign will have Thruway staff, State Troopers, and tow truck operators promoting it at service areas by handing out flyers and talking about how important the "Move Over" law is with other drivers.

There will also be a "Move Over" enforcement detail on the Thruway from November 14th through the 18th. Police will be targeting drivers that fail to move over for emergency vehicles, tow trucks, and maintenance vehicles.