AAA strives to raise public awareness of road safety measures, including car seat regulations, laws against drunk and impaired driving, new car technology, warnings against distracted driving, and the Slow Down, Move Over law. 

The Slow Down, Move Over Law now exists in all 50 states. The law 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 vehicle, tow truck or maintenance vehicle with its lights flashing.” 

AAA was instrumental in advocating for this law and for the inclusion of first responders and tow truck drivers. Unfortunately, law enforcement and emergency workers and tow truck operators, including AAA operators, continue to lose their lives while aiding others on the side of the road, often because a passing vehicle did not sufficiently slow down and move over. 

With this in mind, AAA is proud to sponsor the International Towing Museum’s Survivor Fund. The museum in Chattanooga, Tennessee, highlights towing history and honors operators who have contributed to the field. Recognizing the need to support families who have lost loved ones, the museum started the Survivor Fund in 2005. The International Towing Museum also established the “Wall of the Fallen” in 2006 to memorialize operators who lost their lives. 

From the International Towing Museum: “These men and women work perilously close to highspeed traffic and routinely face the danger of impaired, inattentive and distracted drivers. The towing industry loses approximately 60 operators annually—a number that is staggering to comprehend.” 

AAA continues to raise awareness about this important law 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 safe speed 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 to 20 mph less than the posted speed limit.
   

AAA is committed to helping everyone stay safe on the road. Our driver training experts can help you prepare for the road ahead.

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