Our Law Enforcement and Emergency Personnel put their lives on the line every day in NYS for our well-being. The least we can do for them is keep them safe. The New York State Move Over Law was passed as a necessary and life-saving law to protect law enforcement and emergency personnel while working to help the community.

Background: What is the “Move Over Law?”

New York State’s “Move Over” law was originally enacted in 2010. Named the “Ambrose-Searles Move Over Act” its namesake honors Trooper Robert W. Ambrose and Sheriff Deputy Glenn M. Searles, who both died in the line of duty after being struck by a vehicle while stopped on the shoulder of the road. In 2012, the law was amended to not only include police but also fire and ambulance vehicles, as well as hazard vehicles displaying amber lights like tow trucks and maintenance vehicles.

This law encourages motorists to use care when approaching emergency or hazard vehicles stopped on the roadway with flashing lights to avoid an auto accident. Motorists are required to move one full lane away from the stopped vehicle on the road. The only way they are not required is if it were unsafe for the motorist or violates traffic laws.

Yes, there are Penalties for Not Moving Over?

If a motorist fails to move over when safely able to do so, they will receive a ticket carrying a 2-point penalty. If the driver receives 11 points in an 18-month period, their New York State driver’s license will be suspended. If convicted, the guilty party may face a fine of up to $150 with a $93 surcharge. If they receive additional “Move Over” convictions within the following 18 months, the fine will increase. The second conviction will cost a fine of $300 and a third conviction will cost $450.

Myth: The Move Over Law is the same as yielding the right of way to an emergency vehicle.

The Move Over Law is not the same as yielding the right-of-way for an emergency vehicle on-route to an emergency. The Move Over Law specifically references parked emergency and hazard vehicles on the shoulder of the road. Failing to yield the right-of-way to an emergency vehicle will result in a 3-point penalty and up to a $275 fine.