State lawmakers propose expanding ‘Move Over’ law to include disabled vehicles (CT)

[TowNews]

Some New Jersey lawmakers and AAA are looking to expand the state’s “Move Over” law to include disabled vehicles. The law currently only applies to emergency service vehicles.

 

The state Senate Transportation Committee voted unanimously on legislation that would extend the law to stationary vehicles.

 

“This year, we saw a father of two killed at the roadside in Rahway when he was changing his tire,” says AAA spokesperson Tracy Noble.

 

If the bill passes, drivers would have to move into the next lane or slow down below the posted speed limit when driving by any vehicle stopped on the side of the road with its lights on.

 

“Slow down, move over to the other lane. Pass if you can in a safe fashion and if you can’t, then obviously stop,” says state Sen. Patrick Diegnan.

 

Violating the law could cost offenders a $100-$500 fine. Diegnan, who is sponsoring the bill, says he hopes the law will go into effect by the start of the summer.

 

“I have four grandchildren. At this point, I fear when they get their driver’s license. The aggressive driving has to stop. We have to get a handle on it,” he says.

 

AAA cautions drivers to be mindful as the summer season begins.

 

“As we're coming into the summer driving season that there are going to be more cars on the road. So, when you see those emergency lights or somebody even with hazard lights, please slow down below the speed limit and move over one lane of travel if you can,” says Noble.

 

The legislation will go to the state Assembly next and then to Gov. Phil Murphy’s desk if it advances.

 

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[Towman92266]

I believe this is already a the law in Pennsylvania? The problem is the police need to enforce it, and the courts need to prosecute the offenders.