The Maryland Move Over Law is a traffic regulation designed to protect emergency responders and highway workers. It requires motorists to change lanes or reduce speed when approaching certain emergency vehicles or tow trucks with activated lights.
While this law is primarily focused on promoting road safety and protecting emergency responders and service personnel, there are situations where you might need a personal injury attorney if you’re issued a move-over law violation.
For example, if you were in an accident due to someone’s failure to comply with the move-over law, a personal injury attorney can help protect your rights and pursue a compensation claim.
Your attorney can gather evidence, assess liability, and negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf. Look for a local legal advocate for injuries to learn more. Here is what you should know about Maryland’s move-over law:
Applicable Vehicles & Lane Change Requirement
Maryland’s move-over law applies to various types of emergency vehicles, such as:
- Police cars, fire trucks, and ambulances
- Tow trucks, service vehicles, and highway maintenance vehicles displaying flashing lights
When approaching a stopped emergency or service vehicle with its lights activated, motorists must make a lane change, if possible, to create a buffer space between their vehicle and the stationary vehicle. If the road has multiple lanes traveling in the same direction, drivers must move to the adjacent lane farthest away from the stopped vehicle.
Speed Reduction & Penalties
If changing lanes is impossible due to traffic conditions or other factors, drivers must reduce their speed and proceed cautiously when passing a stationary vehicle with its lights on. The law requires drivers to slow down to a reasonable speed that is safe according to the road, weather, vehicular, and pedestrian conditions.
Violating Maryland’s move-over law can result in fines and points on your driving record. The penalties vary depending on the circumstances of the violation and can be more severe if the violation leads to bodily injury or property damage.
Awareness, Education, and Advocacy
The Maryland move-over law aims to raise awareness about providing a safe environment for emergency responders and service personnel. Public education campaigns and enforcement efforts help promote compliance and prevent accidents.
It’s important to note that specific details and requirements of this law can vary from state to state. If you’re driving in Maryland or any other state, it’s advisable to familiarize yourself with local traffic laws and regulations to ensure compliance and promote road safety.
If you have been injured due to someone else violating Maryland’s move-over law, consider speaking with a personal injury attorney. They can provide valuable insights and help you understand your legal options.
If you must prove another driver’s negligence and recover compensation for your damages, a personal injury attorney can guide you through the legal process, protect your rights, and give you a fair shot at maximizing your compensation for your injuries and losses, like property damage, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.
Contact (410) LAW-YERS for quality legal representation in Maryland.
