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What is the ‘Move Over’ Law?

Wisconsin’s “Move Over Law” helps safeguard law enforcement officers, emergency responders, and other road maintenance workers from harm while they are working on Wisconsin roads. Unfortunately, roadside crashes are the leading cause of death for law enforcement officers while on duty. When a driver encounters one of these workers on the roadside, he or she either must shift lanes or slow down so as to create a safe zone for the workers. The law applies to various vehicles parked on the side of the road, such as squad cars, ambulances, fire trucks, and utility trucks.

How a driver reacts to a worker and/or vehicle on the side of the road depends on the situation. If the road is an interstate highway with more than one directional lane, and you are able to safely shift lanes away from the parked vehicle, then you should do so. On the other hand, if you are driving on a road with only one directional lane, then you must slow down significantly in order to avoid hitting the parked vehicle or any individuals standing on the side of the road.

While many people are aware of the duty to slow down or change lanes if an emergency vehicle is parked on the side of the road, they are not so aware of the duty to do so for other workers and vehicles, such as road maintenance workers. Unfortunately, many drivers do not observe the move-over law at all, which can lead to accidents causing serious injuries and even death.

Whether an accident occurs as a violation of the “move over” law or another type of traffic violation, you may have a personal injury claim if you are injured as a result. Personal injury claims are very complex, and you will need an experienced personal injury lawyer to guide you through the claims process as appropriate. Each type of claim has strict requirements and deadlines that a claimant must meet in order to maintain a successful claim. Boller & Vaughan are Wisconsin motor vehicle accident lawyers who dedicate their practice to protecting the interests of the injured and their families. Contact our office today to set up your free consultation and learn what options are available to you.