Every year, workers alongside the road are injured or killed when vehicles crash into authorized emergency/public service vehicles and crew sites.
All states, including North Carolina, have enacted the “Move Over” law to protect roadside workers. The law requires emergency and service vehicles to have flashing amber-colored lights on while working alongside the road.
To keep these workers safe, you should do the following:
- When approaching an authorized emergency vehicle with flashing amber lights, slow down and move over into another lane, if possible.
- If you are unable to move over, you should slow down to a reasonable speed.
Drivers who fail to follow these simple tips could face a fine and, in some cases, jail time.
So, the next time you see crews working on the side of the road with their amber lights flashing, remember to slow down and move over. Every worker has the right to work in a safe environment, and taking these precautions not only demonstrates common courtesy and respect, but also saves lives.
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