GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. – Authorities are reminding drivers of Michigan’s Move Over Law after a car crashed into a firetruck on the state’s west side.
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.
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The reminder comes after a driver struck an emergency vehicle tending to a crash outside Grand Rapids.
It happened at about 8 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 12, as the first of two snowfalls this week entered the region.
According to authorities, first responders were treating the injuries of a driver who lost control and drove off I-196 when a firetruck that was blocking a lane for safety reasons was hit by a different driver.
Police said the firetruck was “fully illuminated” at the time.
Both drivers suffered minor injuries in their respective crashes. No first responders were injured.
Police believe alcohol may have been a factor in the second crash.
The investigation is ongoing.
Move Over Law
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.
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.
