Michigan: Follow the law and move over

It appears that Michigan’s “Move Over Law” continues to have its share of violators. And, the violators are equal opportunity offenders — ignoring the rules for the police, ambulances and even tow truck operators.

That was pointed out again recently when a local tow truck operator said it is not uncommon for him to experience motorists ignoring the law.

In brief, the law says a motorist must try to move to an adjacent, open lane when possible to give emergency workers room to operate without fear for their lives. However, if traffic does not allow a motorist to change lanes, the driver must at least slow down while trying to give emergency workers as much room as possible.

Moving over and slowing down are especially important during the winter, when road conditions are often treacherous and driving is trickier.

We urge motorists to stay alert while driving, and spread the word about this often ignored law when not driving. There is no reason why this law should be violated on a regular basis. The law affects all motorists in Michigan, not just ones in a certain area.

It is a law that also is designed to help all emergency workers — including the ones using road service vehicles. Emergency workers in Michigan should not have to fear for their lives every day on the job.

Unfortunately, most of them do.