DETROIT – Dozens of emergency responders nationwide are struck by cars or involved in crashes while on the job every year.
Despite every state having its own Move Over law, the United States Bureau of Labor said 67% of people have no idea those laws even exist. That’s why law enforcement across Michigan are teaming up to launch a powerful online campaign to make sure drivers know the risks.
Michigan’s expanded “Move Over” law took effect back in 2019. It required drivers to slow to 10 mph below the posted speed limit and yield their lane when passing police or emergency vehicles on the side of the road.
As Wayne County Sheriff, Raphael Washington doesn’t usually get to drive around in a scout car. But he knows all too well the dangers his deputies face on the road.
“Back in 1996, I was working with Detroit Police Department, working a motorcycle unit. I’m on the shoulder, waiting to get back into the traffic when she hit me,” Washington recalled. “I saw my whole life flash before my eyes. I really thought I was going to die.”
Washington broke his leg and is counting himself lucky there wasn’t more traffic on the freeway that day.
“My whole life flashed before me,” Washington said. “People say that that’s a real thing when you think you see death coming -- It happens.”
Washington took Local 4 on a ride-along as Wayne County pilots a year-long social media campaign focused on Michigan’s Move Over law.
You can watch Priya Mann’s full story in the video player above.
Drivers are required to slow down and move over for stationary emergency vehicles. If drivers can’t move over due to traffic, weather or other road conditions, drivers must slow down and pass with caution.
Drivers who don’t pull over or slow down could be issued a citation with a $400 fine and two points on their license. If a driver causes injuries or death, it becomes a felony with significant jail time.