MARYLAND, USA — Starting, Oct. 1, Maryland drivers are required under the "Move Over" Law to change lanes or slow down when approaching any stopped, standing, or parked vehicle showing warning signals.
The "Move Over" law was originally enacted because more than 100 law enforcement officers were killed and thousands injured in the last 20 years due to being struck by vehicles.
In 2010, Maryland's "Mover Over" law was passed to provide protection only for emergency responders, law enforcement personnel, and CHART trucks who provided drivers roadside assistance. In 2014, the law was extended to tow truck drivers.
The Move Over Law will expand to include all types of vehicles on the roadway. The law is set in place to protect law enforcement, emergency responders, and any motorists may encounter a roadside emergency and must stop near travel lanes.
Drivers who do not abide by the law could face serious consequences. Motorists will be issued a $110 fine and one point on their license. If the violation causes a collision, then fine is $150 and three points. If someone is seriously injured or dies, then the fine will be $750 and three points on a driver's license.
