BUFFALO, N.Y. — Beginning on March 27, New York State will be expanding on the statewide 'Move Over' law.
What is the 'Move Over' law?
A driver under the 'Move Over' law must pull over as soon as they see lights, vests, or reflectors. Due care must be used when approaching an emergency vehicle or hazard vehicle which includes police, fire trucks, ambulances, construction, maintenance vehicles, and tow trucks.
The Move Over law applies to both sides of the roadway not just the shoulder on the right. It first became a law in 2010 to prevent collisions with emergency vehicles that were stopped on the roadway.
“The safety of all New Yorkers is my top priority, especially those pulled over to the side of the road,” Governor Hochul said. “If you see that you are approaching a disabled vehicle, slow down and move over as best you can to give them some space.”
In the new expansion, it will be required that all drivers will have to move over and take precautions, which include slowing down, to avoid a crash with any vehicles stopped on the side of the road.
New York State Police Acting Superintendent Steven G. James said, “The New York State Police remains committed to keeping our roadways safe - for those who travel them, and for those who work on them. By expanding the Move Over Law and vigorously enforcing its provisions, we will be able to further improve safety for all who utilize our roads throughout the state. I thank Governor Hochul for her shared dedication and steadfast commitment to enhancing safety on New York’s roadways.”
According to the Governors Office, "From 2016 to 2020, 37 individuals were killed outside disabled vehicles in New York. Nationally, nearly 300 drivers are struck and killed roadside every year. The Move Over Law was enacted to prevent those tragedies and make New York’s roadways safer for all."
To learn more visit www.governor.ny.gov
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