New York Expands 'Move Over Law'

March 26, 2024

New York State has taken another step toward increasing safety on its roadways.

Last year, Governor Kathy Hochul signed into law an expansion of the 2010 ‘Move Over Law.’ The original law required all motorists to safely change lanes to give space to police, fire or other emergency vehicles pulled over on the side of the road. The law has been amended several times, expanding the coverage to include tow trucks, Department of Public Works vehicles, and hazard vehicles.

The lasted update, which takes effect on March 27, 2024, covers all vehicles pulled to the side of the road, and requires passing motorists to do one of two things:

• change into a lane not immediately adjacent to the vehicle, or
• slow down to a reasonable speed if unable to safely make a lane change.

According to a release from the Governor’s office, from 2016 to 2020, 37 individuals were killed outside disabled vehicles in New York. Nearly 300 drivers are struck and killed each year in the United States while on the side of the road.

Violators of the law can be ticketed with a moving violation that can result in fines as well as points against your driver’s license.

Our personal injury group represents victims of all types of automobile accidents, including victims of these roadside incidents. There are strict deadlines that must be met following an accident, and failure to do so could jeopardize your ability to recover the fullest damages for your injuries, loss, and suffering.

Immediately following an accident, your thoughts are pulled in many different directions. We advise everyone to contact an attorney as soon as possible following any accident to protect your rights and preserve your claim. Our team is always available for a no-cost consultation to see how we may best help you or a loved one who has suffered a personal injury due to the negligence of others.

Harry J. Forrest is an attorney with Gross Shuman PC. The focus of his practice is personal injury claims, including accidents involving motor vehicles, constructions sites, property hazards and defects, as well as long-term disability claims and appeals. He has successfully handled cases in both federal and state courts and has tried cases to verdict involving claims for personal injury, property damage, contract disputes and constitutional civil rights violations. You can contact him at 716-854-4300 ext. 225 or [email protected]