Not only do drivers need to watch for other cars and potential dangers in their lane on the highway, but it’s also important to keep an eye on things that are happening on the side of the road. How often do you see a police car, tow truck, or another vehicle parked on the shoulder, and automatically look over to see what is happening?
It’s a natural response to be curious about things on the highway, but a momentary mistake can result in life-threatening consequences. Instead of trying to see what is going on – risking an accident – a better solution is to give the parked vehicle a little more space.
For this reason, New York’s “move over” law was passed to require drivers to move over and slow down when they see emergency vehicles stopped on the side of the highway. Recently, this law was expanded further.
Updated Requirements for the “Move Over” Law
Previously, the law required drivers to attempt to move over when emergency or hazard vehicles were on the highway and displaying a green or blue light. Now, the law has been extended to require drivers to also move over for all types of vehicles stopped or parked on the side of highways.
The original move over law has proven effective in protecting emergency vehicles and law enforcement officers from dangers when they are stopped on the highways. The expanded legislation will now also protect motorists who are dealing with emergencies on the road. Every year, tragic accidents occur when people are seriously injured or even killed when parked or stopped on the highway for emergencies.
What to Do if There’s a Vehicle Stopped on the Highway
Not only is it a safe thing to do, but it is also required by New York law to adjust your driving as you approach any stationary vehicles on the highway. It doesn’t matter if the parked vehicle is an emergency responder, a tow truck, or any other type of vehicle – the move over law now applies to all of them.
The move over law requires that you:
- Slow your speed
- Provide space for the parked vehicle
- If you are in the traveling in the lane closest to the stopped vehicle, you should move to the next lane over if it is safe and practical
If you’re the one involved in an emergency or accident and it’s possible to get off the highway, then move to the next exit whenever possible. The side of the highway is one of the most dangerous places to be stopped. Getting off the freeway not only protects your safety, but also ensures the safety of the highway patrol officers and emergency responders that are called to the scene.
If You’ve Been Injured
Have you been injured by a negligent driver who didn’t move over when you were on the side of the highway? In addition to seeking medical care for your injuries, it’s also important to contact an attorney with experience in navigating accident cases.
Compensation might be available for you. The insurance company will try to keep the payout as low as possible, which means that you might be missing out on all of the money you deserve if you don’t have an attorney building a strong claim and negotiating on your behalf.
We invite you to reach out to our personal injury team for the legal support that you need. Rosenblum Law is just a phone call away, offering a personalized approach and decades of experience. Call us at 888-235-9021 to schedule a free consultation.
FAQs
Can I receive a ticket for not moving over for parked cars on the highway?
Drivers can be punished for not moving over when there are parked vehicles on the highway. Punishment can include fines and points on one’s driving record.
Can I receive compensation if injured while on the side of the highway?
If another person causes injury because of negligent driving, then you might be able to receive compensation for your medical bills, property damage, lost wages, emotional distress, pain and suffering, and more.
Who does the move over law apply to?
All drivers are legally required to move over when there is a stationary vehicle (emergency responders and any other type of vehicle) and it is practical and safe to move into another lane.
