West Virginia drivers are often reminded of the critical importance of keeping safe distances when approaching emergency vehicles. Effective today, the state’s Move Over law has been updated to include road maintenance workers and stranded motorists, clarifying the obligations of drivers in these situations.
Under the enhanced law, motorists must safely change lanes when approaching vehicles with flashing lights, which now encompasses tow trucks, construction vehicles, and maintenance crews. If changing lanes is not an option, drivers are required to reduce their speed significantly.
Lori Weaver Hawkins, public affairs manager for AAA Bluegrass, emphasized the organization’s role in pushing for stronger Move Over laws across the country. She noted that while such laws have become a national standard, there were gaps in West Virginia’s regulations. “The state law previously focused mainly on first responders, neglecting road maintenance workers and those dealing with vehicle breakdowns,” she stated.
The addition of these provisions aims to bolster safety for both motorists experiencing vehicle troubles and for the maintenance workers performing their duties in often perilous environments. Nonetheless, awareness and compliance are critical for the law to be effective.
Penalties for non-compliance include fines of up to $500 and possible jail time of up to 60 days. However, lawmakers and safety advocates stress that the primary motivation should not just be avoiding these consequences but rather the ethical duty to protect lives on the road.
In 2022, more than 450 fatalities were reported nationwide involving individuals attending to disabled vehicles, according to figures from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. The risks associated with roadside work are underscored by recent incidents in West Virginia, further highlighting the necessity for vigilant driving behavior.
As drivers navigate West Virginia’s roadways, the renewed emphasis on moving over and reducing speed near flashing lights serves as a vital reminder of the collective responsibility all motorists share in ensuring safety. Adopting these practices not only safeguards others but also enhances overall road safety as a community effort.
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