NCDOT: Slow down and move over for stopped emergency vehicles

RALEIGH — The N.C. Governor’s Highway Safety Program and state and local law enforcement are launching a statewide enforcement campaign to remind drivers of the importance of the Move Over Law.

North Carolina’s Move Over Law requires drivers to move over a lane or slow down when approaching emergency vehicles stopped on the side of the road with flashing blue, red or amber lights. The law protects law enforcement officers, emergency services workers and people working along the roadside with the N.C. Department of Transportation.

“Our emergency transportation and utility responders put themselves in harm’s way each day to keep our roads safe,” said GHSP Director Mark Ezzell. “The Move Over Law is not just a suggestion; it’s the law, and a crucial component to ensure the safety of these responders and others. This campaign is a vital step in educating drivers and fostering a culture of safety on North Carolina roadways.”

People who violate the Move Over Law could face a $250 fine and misdemeanor or felony charges, if someone is injured or property is damaged.

“Slowing down and moving over is a simple way to help protect law enforcement, first responders, and others who work on the roads at all hours of the day,” said Col. Freddy Johnson Jr., commander of the N.C. State Highway Patrol. “These emergency personnel work in dangerous situations all the time, but drivers really increase that risk for them when they ignore the flashing lights and don’t comply with the law.”

For more information on the Move Over Law, visit https://www.ncdot.gov/initiatives-policies/safety/driving-safety/Pages/move-over-law.aspx.