‘Move Over’ campaign aims to protect emergency responders, educate drivers

State law requires drivers to make way for emergency vehicles with their lights on

FRANKFORT, Ky. (July 27, 2015) — The Kentucky Office of Highway Safety (KOHS) and Kentucky State Police (KSP) are joining together for a program to promote public safety and awareness for emergency responders on Kentucky roads.

“Move Over” is designed to remind drivers that it’s the law to move over for emergency vehicles with their flashing lights on.

“Our vision is to create a safe transportation system for all Kentuckians,” said KOHS executive director Bill Bell. “That includes our men and women of law enforcement, emergency services and public safety.”

Digital and radio ads, along with outdoor billboards, will complement the existing “Move Over” signs located on major roadways. Additionally, memorial signs will be placed in all Kentucky welcome centers, naming Transportation Cabinet employees who were killed on the job.

“The goal of our campaign is for motorists to be aware of the “Move Over” law and help prevent tragedies from occurring on the side of the road,” Bell said. “It’s something we owe these dedicated professionals who provide a valuable, and often dangerous, public service.”

Kentucky passed the “Move Over” law in 2003, requiring motorists to move over to the adjacent lane when approaching an emergency vehicle or public safety vehicle. If changing lanes is impossible or unsafe, motorists must slow down and use caution. Failure to do so can result in fines, jail time or both.

“Giving responders the space we need allows us to do our job safely and effectively,” KSP Commissioner Rodney Brewer said. “We can only do so much to keep ourselves safe on the side of the road, so we ask motorists to please do their part and obey the law.”

Every state has “Move Over” laws. Hawaii was the final state to enact such a law in 2012, but the “Move Over” laws aren’t a new concept. The first “Move Over” law was introduced in South Carolina in 1996 following the death of a paramedic who was struck at a crash scene.

Bell reminds travelers that when you see those lights, you must slow down and move over. Her said, “It’s not optional, it’s the law.”