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Move Over Law

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Each day, employees of the N.C. Department of Transportation's Safety Patrol​ risk their lives to keep you safe. Listen to their stories about the importance of obeying the Move Over Law. 

North Carolina’s Move Over Law (G.S. 20-157) protects law enforcement officers, emergency services workers as well as those who work along the roadside at the N.C. Department of Transportation.

The law requires motorists to move over a lane or slow down considerably when approaching emergency vehicles stopped on the side of the road with lights flashing.

Failure to do so could result in a $250 fine, and violators could also face misdemeanor or felony charges, if someone is injured or property is damaged.

Emergency vehicles include:

Tips to remember when following the Move Over Law:

  • Slow down and move over, if possible. 
  • If you cannot move over, slow down, and proceed at a reduced speed that would allow you to stop, if necessary.
  • Pay attention and eliminate any distractions as you maneuver around the stopped emergency vehicle.
  • Be alert for crews who may be outside their vehicles.
  • Once you have cleared the emergency or public service vehicle, you may safely merge back into your lane and resume to the posted speed limit.​​​​

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4/18/2024 7:17 AM