Alabama: Recent accident is reminder of the importance of “Move Over” laws
Thursday morning’s accident was a tragic reminder of the real dangers of roadside assistance, whether that be law enforcement, construction workers, good Samaritans, first responders, or tow truck drivers. It’s a dangerous job. Perry Romine is a roll back operator in Huntsville and acknowledges the daily risk of his job. “You know you just kind of glance out of the corner of your eye, and you see somebody coming at you, you either have to run and jump out of the way, or take a risk on getting hit.”
Romine was on scene at the tragic accident Thursday morning on I-565, which resulted in the death of a young man. He says accidents of that nature can often be avoided. “It could have been prevented, if they’d slowed down, and moved over. Even if it wasn’t tow trucks, if you see someone on the side of the road, you’ve got to move over for everybody,” says Romine.
“Responsibility, and respect, and then when it comes to our line of work, it’s also the law.”
Move Over America is a national campaign designed to protect law enforcement and first responders, by encouraging drivers to change lanes or slow down. “At least once a week, one of us is either having to jump up on the truck, or run out of the way because someone has got too close to us. There’s been on several occasions I’ve been clipped by rear view mirrors, and it’s dangerous,” adds Romine.
The state of Alabama passed the Move Over Act in 2009, so not only can slowing down and moving over help save lives, it’s the law. Violation of the Move Over Law is a misdemeanor, punishable by a fine ranging from $25 to $100. The National Move over Campaign will hold a national event in July.
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