Pennsylvania 'Move Over' Law Will Enhance Roadside Safety
Motorists Now Required to Move Over
or Slow Down for Roadside Incidents
HARRISBURG, Pa., Sept. 19 /PRNewswire/ -- A
state law that took effect this month requires Pennsylvania motorists to
move over or slow down when they encounter an emergency scene, traffic
stop or disabled vehicle, state Transportation Secretary Allen D. Biehler,
P.E. said today.
"The new 'Steer Clear' law simply takes
what should be common sense and makes it a requirement for safe driving in
Pennsylvania," said Biehler. "Police officers, emergency crews and those
working to assist stranded motorists must be given a wider margin for
safety - and we are counting on all drivers to help us achieve this goal."
The law requires motorists to move to a
lane that is not adjacent to the scene of an emergency response, police
stop or a tow truck picking up an abandoned vehicle. If drivers cannot
move over because of traffic or other conditions, they must reduce their
speed.
The law applies any time an emergency
vehicle has its lights flashing and where road crews or emergency
personnel have lighted flares, posted signs or tried to warn motorists.
Failure to move over or slow down can result in a summary offense that
carries a fine of up to $250. In addition, fines will be doubled for
traffic violations occurring in these areas. If that violation leads to a
worker being injured, a 90-day license suspension could result.
In cases where law enforcement may not be
present, the law allows road workers and emergency responders to report
violations by motorists. Law enforcement can issue citations based on
these reports. | 
