5 days ago
Arkansas State Police reminds drivers to move over for first responders
LITTLE ROCK, Ark. – The Arkansas State Police is reminding drivers that moving over for first responders is a state law.
The Arkansas Move Over Law requires drivers to move over not only for emergency vehicles but also for vehicles operated by the Arkansas Department of Transportation, utility vehicles, tow trucks, and other authorized vehicles displaying flashing, revolving, or rotating lights in blue, red, amber, white, or green, according to ASP officials.
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Officials added that when approaching an authorized vehicle that is stopped or parked on a street, road, highway, or shoulder, drivers must move to the farthest lane or position themselves as far away from the authorized vehicle as possible. They should remain in that lane until they have safely passed the authorized vehicle while exercising caution.
If changing lanes is unsafe or impossible, the driver should reduce their speed according to the conditions of the street, road, or highway where the authorized vehicle is stopped or parked.
Officials said anyone who violates the law may face fines ranging from $250 to $1,000, possible jail time and risk losing their driver's license.
ASP Col. Mike Hagar said moving over is more than a courtesy.
'When you see flashing lights, move over or slow down,' Hagar said. 'This is the law and a responsibility we all share.'
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Late Wednesday morning, two ASP troopers were hit while they were making a traffic stop on Interstate 430. The troopers were treated and released, and the driver of the vehicle that hit the patrol car was not injured.
'This incident highlights the critical importance of the Move Over Law. The collision occurred during a routine traffic stop, a scenario where law enforcement officers are especially vulnerable,' Hagar said at the time. 'Compliance with the Move Over Law is essential to prevent such accidents and protect emergency workers on Arkansas roads.'
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