The Move Over Law in Maryland expands to require motorists to make a lane change or slow down when approaching any stopped, standing, or parked vehicle displaying warning signals – including hazard warning lights, road flares, or other caution signals including traffic cones, caution signs, or non-vehicular warning signs.
Purpose of the Move Over Law
The purpose of the Move Over law is to provide an extra barrier of safety for motorists in addition to police officers, firefighters, emergency medical service personnel, and utility workers on Maryland roadways. The goal is that drivers will become more aware of ALL vehicles stopped along the road and to move over or slow down as they pass the affected area. If it is not possible to move over, drivers must slow down.
Move Over Violations
A violation of the Move Over, Slow Down law is a misdemeanor carrying a $110 fine and one point on the violator’s driving license. If the violation causes a crash, the fine is $150 and three points. If there is a death or serious injury, the fine is $750 and three points. Since 2015, law enforcement in Maryland have written more than 25,000 citations under the law. Maryland is dedicated to saving lives and preventing injuries by reducing motor vehicle crashes. Learn more about the MDOT MVA’s Highway Safety Office’s commitment to zero deaths on Maryland roadways at ZeroDeathsMD.gov and on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @zerodeathsmd.
