State Troopers push Alabama Move Over Law ahead of holiday weekend
More drivers on the road during heavy travel periods can lead to more crashes and that, in turn, puts law enforcement and first responders in danger. "ALEA" told ABC 33/40 it is important to remember the Move Over Law when you see flashing lights.
According the Alabama Department of Transportation, roadside crashes are the number one cause of death for police and state troopers. The Move over Law is something they take very seriously.
“We've had several law enforcement officers struck and killed, we've had a number of tow truck drivers struck and killed when they were attempting to remove vehicles from the road side,” said Alabama State Trooper Reginal King. King said when you see flashing lights, move over.
“Anytime you're on a multi-lane highway, such as the interstate, and you see flashing lights, you're always required to move over to the left lane if its open. Now in the event that you're not able to do so, we always require you to reduce your speed 15 miles per hour below the posted speed limit,” King said.
King said a lane change could mean the difference of life and death.
“It’s always important to commit all of your attention to operating your motor-vehicle, if there is a law enforcement official on the side of the roadway, it only takes a split-second for the drive to take their eyes off the roadway and possibly strike and kill that individual,” he said.
Violating the law is considered a misdemeanor and can carry a fine of up to $100 and possible court costs.
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