Drivers on Maryland’s Interstate 95 should remain vigilant for an increase in enforcement of the state’s move-over-law.
Last week, officers from the Maryland State Police and the Maryland Transportation Authority began targeting violators of the move-over-law on every stretch of the highway from 6am to 6pm.
The move-over-law requires drivers approaching emergency and law enforcement vehicles to either move over at least one extra lane or, if driver’s can’t do that safely, slow down at least 10 miles below the speed limit.
A violation of the law carries a fine of up to $750 and points on a driver’s license.
Police say the law is about safety and to better protect officers and other emergency workers who are pulled over and getting in and out of their vehicles.
Maryland’s WBAL-TV 11 interviewed police officer Richard Mossman who has been working on Maryland’s busiest roads for 10 years. He says he’s seen his share of close calls.
“I’ve worked with officers who have been hit before. Some have been lucky, but there are others that haven’t been so lucky,” Mossman said.
He admitted that it seemed that they typical driver is unaware of the move-over-law altogether. That’s reason behind the increase in enforcement, to spread the message, he said.
The law will not only help the safety of police. Beginning later this year, the law will also apply to tow-trucks on the side of the road.
“I’ve almost been hit many ties before, I’ve got to watch out. Move out of the way. It’s scary out there,” tow truck operator Kevin Thomas said.
Mossman agrees that just some space between his vehicle and those driving by at 60 or 70 miles an hour is a big difference and urges drivers to remain aware.
“Move over. Give us some room to work,” he said.
Source: www.wbaltv.com