‘Slow Down, Move Over Resolution’ inspired by CT tow truck driver’s death passes hurdle

[TowForce]

When an emergency first responder vehicle is assisting on the side of the road, officials urge motorists to slow down and move over to give them space.

 

But it’s not just a common courtesy, it’s the law.

 

All 50 states have Slow Down, Move Over laws that direct motorists to reduce speed or change lanes for stopped emergency and maintenance vehicles.

 

“Despite these laws, many motorists are unaware of them and roadside fatalities and injuries continue. On average, an emergency first responder is struck and killed every 4.65 days working on America’s roadways, with 51 deaths occurring in 2022,” according to a press release.

 

o raise awareness, the U.S. Senate passed a bipartisan resolution led by U.S. Sen. Richard Blumenthal and U.S. Sen. Mike Braun from Indiana.

 

The resolution raises awareness of Slow Down, Move Over state laws to reduce struck-by-vehicle injuries and fatalities and to recognize the important role fire and rescue personnel, emergency medical services personnel, law enforcement officers, tow truck operators and transportation workers play in road safety, according to Blumenthal’s office.

 

“I’m proud the Senate has unanimously passed our bipartisan Slow Down, Move Over resolution,” said Blumenthal. “Tragic collisions that injure and kill first responders and roadside assistance workers like Corey Iodice continue to happen. This resolution amplifies the simple yet effective way to keep workers safe on the roads: Slow Down and Move Over.”

 

The resolution was inspired by Corey Iodice, a Connecticut tow truck operator, who was struck and killed in 2020 while assisting a driver. His sister Cindy Iodice has since founded a nonprofit organization focused on raising awareness and educating drivers about the roadside dangers faced by first responders and highway workers.

 

“Emergency responders are the unsung heroes of our nation’s roads,” said Iodice. “So it’s important to keep the message of Slow Down, Move Over in the motoring public’s eye. This resolution does just that. It serves as a clear reminder that emergency responders and highway workers operate in dangerous situations to keep the roads open and safe for the traveling public. Prioritizing their safety is essential.”

 

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