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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.
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