This adjustment has already been implemented by four neighboring states. Presently, over 20 states have broadened their move-over laws to cover all road users, with Maryland, Arizona, Connecticut, Illinois, Iowa, Oklahoma, Oregon, and Pennsylvania leading the way since 2023.

Proposed by Kentucky State Representative Mary Beth Imes of Murray, House Bill 19 seeks to extend the move-over requirement to include any “disabled vehicle” displaying a warning signal.

The existing move-over law in Kentucky, in place since 2003, mandates drivers to shift to an adjacent lane when approaching an emergency or public safety vehicle with flashing lights. If a lane change is unsafe, drivers must reduce speed and proceed with caution. Currently applicable to law enforcement, firefighters, paramedics, and towing vehicles, violations incur fines and potential jail time.

HB19 proposes an expansion to cover any vehicle displaying warning signals like emergency flashers, flares, or retroreflective signals. AAA Bluegrass supports this bill, emphasizing the need to protect all road users parked along the roadside for any reason. The bill awaits consideration in committee.

Across the state line in Ohio, a Senate bill sponsored by Senator Steve Wilson aims to broaden the move-over law to include any stationary vehicle in “distress.”

Failure to change lanes or proceed with caution around a distressed stationary vehicle could result in a misdemeanor offense. Those with previous traffic violations within the past year could face increased charges. An additional $100 charge may apply if distracted driving is a contributing factor.

Senate Bill 178 is currently under review in the Ohio Senate Transportation Committee. Advocates, including the Ohio State Highway Patrol, argue that the existing law is confusing for drivers, and Wilson’s bill seeks to clarify and enhance current regulations, emphasizing that providing space can be crucial for saving lives.

“If any of you have ever been out along an interstate and had to change a tire, it is a scary, scary thing,” Wilson said.

Source: Land Line

The post Kentucky and Ohio Step Up and Write Official Bill for Move-Over Rules appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

Enacted in 2006, the law mandates drivers to either shift into an adjacent traffic lane when safe or decelerate when approaching emergency vehicles on the roadside. While the law doesn’t also apply to semis that are pulled over, it does encourage drivers to be more aware of vehicles pulled onto the shoulder.

In 2023, there have been 33 incidents of HELP trucks being struck while responding to emergencies, with five of these accidents occurring in November, as per a TDOT news release.

On Nov.  17, officers from the Tennessee Highway Patrol, Chattanooga Police Department, and Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office dedicated a total of 84 hours to the operation. They conducted 77 vehicle stops, issued 15 warnings, and issued nine citations for violations of the state’s Move Over Law. The hope is that everyone on the road will become more aware of vehicles on the shoulder of roadways.

“State law requires drivers to move over and slow down for emergency vehicles,” said Butch Eley, deputy governor and TDOT commissioner. “Working together with our extraordinary law enforcement partners, we can help change driver behavior and make it safer for everyone on the road. Crash responders can’t do their jobs if their lives are being put at risk.”

Tennessee imposes a maximum fine of up to $500 and a potential jail term of up to 30 days for violating the Move Over Law.

Source: The Trucker

The post Tennessee Focuses in on Reducing Number of Move Over Violations, Increases Road Safety For All appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.