Massachusetts: • Tow truck drivers at risk: Millbury couple push for better compliance with 'Move Over Law'

Dick Stearns recalls the time when a passing truck on the Massachusetts Turnpike clipped off not just the side view mirror of the disabled truck he was hitching up, but also the mirror on his tow truck.

The close call for the retired owner of Dick's Service Center reinforces the commitment that he and his wife, Millie, have made in their efforts to promote the state's "Move Over Law." The law, enacted in 2009, requires drivers approaching a stationary emergency or maintenance vehicle with flashing lights to move to the next lane if it is safe to do so, or barring that, reduce their speed. Failure to comply carries a fine of up to $100.

The law's intent is to enhance the safety of tow truck drivers, police, firefighters, paramedics and other roadside emergency and maintenance workers.

As members of the Statewide Towing Association, begun in 1970, the Stearnses have outfitted their red 2011 GMC 1500 pickup truck with a window display reading: "Move over and slow down, our lives depend on it."

They brought the truck to the towing association's 45th anniversary event in Devens earlier this month. The event featured a light show, beauty contest and tow industry suppliers and officials.

The Stearnses have been involved with the Friends of Towing group for eight years, raising money for the International Towing and Recovery Hall of Fame Museum in Chattanooga, Tennessee. They travel there each September for a tribute to tow drivers killed on the job. An average of 65 tow truck drivers die in roadside accidents nationwide each year.

A wall outside the museum bears the fallen tow truck drivers' names. The names are called off during the ceremony, and family members receive a white rose and certificate in their memory.

"We want people to be aware of the fact that tow trucks are on the road to do service for people," Ms. Stearns said.