“MOVE OVER/SLOW DOWN” OPERATION PLANNED FOR WEDNESDAY

  

The Texas Department of Public Safety is planning another enforcement operation of the state’s Move Over/Slow Down law.

These enforcement operations by DPS troopers are planned periodically throughout the year at various locations in Texas, with one of those taking place in the Bryan District throughout tomorrow (Wednesday). The Department of Transportation will be participating in a non-enforcement capacity.

Originally passed in 2003, the law requires drivers to either move over or slow down when certain vehicles—such as police, fire, EMS, TxDOT vehicles or tow trucks—are stopped on the side of the road with their emergency lights on.

Specifically, the law says drivers need to either vacate the lane closest to the vehicles stopped on the side of the road, or slow down 20 mph below the speed limit. Drivers should only move over if they can do legally and safely; otherwise, they should slow down.

Violators could be fined up to $200, or up to $500 if there is property damage. If violators cause bodily injury, they could be charged with a Class B misdemeanor, resulting in a maximum fine of $2,000 and possible jail time.

Data from last year shows that DPS issued more than 41,000 warnings and citations to motorists in violation of the Move Over/Slow Down law. Preliminary data this year shows approximately 9,800 warnings and citations have been issued.