What is North Carolina’s Move Over law?

Car accidents can result in serious injuries. Unfortunately, so can the aftermath.

First responders at the scene of car accidents face the risk of collisions with vehicles. North Carolina’s Move Over law protects motorists and first responders after a car accident.

Move Over law

North Carolina’s Move Over law instructs drivers to slow down and approach with caution when there is an emergency vehicle with flashing lights by the side of the road. The law also requires motorists to move into the adjacent lane if it is safe to do so.

Drivers who violate the law face a $500 mandatory fine plus court costs. Additionally, drivers who cause an accident while violating the Move Over law may face a felony charge if the accident causes a serious injury or death.

Accident safety tips

Motorists stranded on the side of the road due to a car accident are also at risk of a vehicle colliding with them. There are steps drivers can take to reduce their risk:

• If the car is drivable, move it as far off the road as possible.
• Turn the vehicle’s hazard lights on and put out cones, triangles or flares.
• Stay in the vehicle instead of standing on the side of the road. Stranded drivers have a better chance of avoiding serious injuries if someone hits their car instead of their person.

North Carolina legislators passed the Move Over law to encourage motorists to drive safely around emergency responders. This law may make the roads safer. However, it is still wise for drivers to take steps to protect themselves after an accident.