Regional ‘Move Over Law’ Enforcement Campaign Reminds Drivers to Switch Lanes

Maryland and Virginia Move Over Law Enforcement Campaign

Maryland State Police, in partnership with Virginia, will participate in an education and enforcement campaign for the Move Over law from now through Saturday, June 23.

The goal of the campaign is to inform the public about the importance of the Move Over law. All 50 states have some sort of Move Over law. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 138 law enforcement officers were struck and killed between 2003 and 2013.

Law enforcement will be out in force this week, reminding drivers to slow down or switch lanes when approaching an emergency vehicle stopped on the road.

In Maryland, motorists are required when approaching an emergency vehicle or a tow truck from the rear with its lights activated, to change into an available lane not next to the emergency vehicle or tow truck, when safe to do so. If there is no lane available, the motorists must slow down to a reasonable and prudent speed as they pass the emergency scene.

Drivers are reminded the ‘move over’ law is a primary offense with a fine of $110 and one point. If the violation contributes to a traffic collision, the fine will be $150 and three points. If the violation contributes to crash resulting in death or serious injury, the fine is $750 and three points.

The Maryland State Police Forestville, Rockville and College Park Barracks will be participating in this initiative.

In Virginia, those participating include the Virginia State Police, along with the Fairfax County Police Department, the Arlington County Police Department, the Alexandria Police Department, the Prince William County Police Department and the Loudon County Sheriff’s Office.

The campaign runs through Saturday, June 23.

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