AAA Applauds Gov. McMaster for Signing Move Over Law

“AAA has been advocating for a stronger law for several years as part of our ‘Move Over for Me’ campaign,” said Tiffany Wright, director of public affairs for AAA – The Auto Club Group. “We are extremely grateful to Representative Shannon Erickson, Senator Larry Grooms and the bipartisan group of lawmakers who sponsored this legislation that will enhance protection for all motorists, as well as the first responders who come to their aid.”

The “Slow Down Move Over” law aims to reduce the risk of collisions and injuries at emergency scenes and roadside incidents, and improve safety for emergency responders, tow truck operators, motorists, and bystanders. In 1996, South Carolina was the first state to enact a Move Over Law in response to a paramedic being injured while assisting at a crash scene. That law was later amended to include law enforcement, firefighters, and tow truck operators.

Under the revised law, drivers must move over for a disabled vehicle displaying hazard lights. Violators could be fined $300 to $500.

The Roadside is a Risky Place for Everyone

Historically, the roadside has been a dangerous place for disabled motorists and emergency workers.

• Nearly 350 people per year are struck and killed while outside a disabled vehicle on the roadside.
• On average, two emergency responders, including tow truck operators, are struck and killed every month by a driver who fails to obey the law by moving over to an adjacent lane and allowing the roadside rescuers the space to operate, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
• Roadside crashes are notably deadly for tow Truck operators. Government data shows that tow operators are killed at a rate of almost 43 deaths per 100,000 workers, compared to just three for all other industries.

“These heroes put their lives on the line every time they rescue someone on the roadside,” said Wright. “We ask that drivers minimize distractions and constantly pay attention to the road ahead of you. Doing so could save lives.”

To protect these roadside workers and all stranded motorists, AAA offers these tips:

Drivers:

• Remain alert, avoid distractions and focus on driving.
• Keep an eye out for emergency vehicles – including tow trucks – that have their lights on as well as cars that have their flashers on. Move over one lane when you see them and if you can’t move over, slow down to safely pass them.
• Be a good passenger – help identify roadway issues and remind the driver to slow down and move over.
• Watch for people on the roadside–just because you don’t immediately see them doesn’t mean they aren’t there, bent down by their vehicle, in front of the vehicle, or about to get in or out of the vehicle.

Stranded Motorists:

• Pull as far over on the shoulder safely possible to create more distance between your vehicle and oncoming traffic.
• Turn your hazard lights on so other drivers are aware you are in distress.
• If you are able to safely make it to the next exit or stopping point, do so.
• Call for assistance, whether via phone, website or AAA app.
• Remain with your vehicle as long as it’s safe to do so.
• If getting out of your vehicle, watch the oncoming traffic for a good time to exit, and remain close to your vehicle. Try to avoid turning your back to traffic whenever possible.