AAA roadside technicians risk their lives to help stranded motorists every day. Did you know that the towing industry is 15 times deadlier than all other private industries combined? On average, 23 tow operators are killed on the roadside every year. That means, on average, one service provider is killed in the line of duty every other week.

The Move Over Law now exists in all fifty states and specifies that drivers must reduce their speed and move to another lane (when possible) to “avoid colliding with a vehicle parked, stopped, or standing on the shoulder or any portion of the highway when the vehicle is an authorized emergency response, tow truck, or maintenance vehicle with its lights flashing.” 

AAA was instrumental in advocating for the passing of this law and its inclusion of first responders and tow truck drivers. Unfortunately, law enforcement, emergency workers and tow truck operators continue to be struck and injured or killed while aiding others on the side of the road because a passing vehicle did not sufficiently slow down and move over.

AAA continues to raise awareness on this important law that exists to save lives, and offers the following tips when motorists spot emergency or utility vehicles on the road:

• Always remain alert: Avoid distractions and focus on the task of driving.
• Watch the road: Look for situations where emergency vehicles, tow trucks, utility service vehicles or disabled vehicles are stopped on the side of the road.
• Approach with caution: When approaching an emergency vehicle with lights flashing on the side of a two-lane roadway, drivers should slow down to a speed that is safe and approach with caution unless otherwise directed by an emergency worker on the scene. 
• Move Over: On multi-lane roadways, slow down when you see the flashing lights of an emergency vehicle at the roadside and, if possible, move over into an adjacent lane. 
• Go Slow: If you are unable to switch lanes, slow to a speed that is safe and reasonable. Some states recommend slowing to a speed that is 10-20 mph less than the posted speed limit.

In addition to being a resource for members when it comes to travel, roadside service or discounts, AAA strives to raise awareness of many road safety measures including: car seat safety, drunk and impaired driving, effectiveness of car technology, distracted driving, and Slow Down, Move Over. 

For more information on traffic safety and related research, go to AAA.com.

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