AAA Launches “Move Over for Me” Campaign

As we head into the holidays when more people will be on the road traveling, AAA has launched a new campaign to remind motorists of the “Move Over” laws due to the rising number of roadside fatalities.

In Georgia, the law requires drivers to move over one lane when possible if an emergency vehicle with flashing lights is parked on the shoulder of the highway.

And if traffic is too heavy to move over safely, the law requires drivers to slow down below the posted speed limit instead AND to be prepared to stop.

This month, AAA – The Auto Club Group launched its “Move Over for Me” campaign that asks drivers to move over for all motorists stuck on the roadside as well as first responders and law enforcement.

“For years, Slow Down, Move Over efforts have focused on emergency responders, and it’s critical that we continue to protect these individuals who come to the aid of motorists,” said Scott VerBracken, Vice President of Automotive Services for AAA – the Auto Club Group. “But as motorists get flat tires, break down, run out of gas, or find themselves otherwise in trouble at the roadside, they also face the dangerous elements of high-speed traffic and need the same protection.”

A new survey by AAA finds that 97% of motorists are concerned about vehicles passing at high speeds when they are stopped on the side of the road.

Montrae Waiters, spokeswoman, AAA–The Auto Club Group said this coupled with the rising number of roadway fatalities reinforces the need for motorists to slow down and move over for all vehicles on the roadside, regardless of whether it is an emergency vehicle or tow provider with flashing lights or a disabled vehicle belonging to a driver with their hazard lights on.

“If you see a disabled vehicle, be courteous and Move Over,” said Waiters. “Remember the person on the roadside could be you, a friend, family member, coworker, or neighbor. Move Over For Me because it is the right thing to do!”

Nearly 350 people are struck and killed outside a disabled vehicle each year, and roughly a quarter of motorists do not know that Slow Down, Move Over laws exist in their state.

So when traveling this holiday season, AAA advises motorists to keep an eye out for emergency vehicles – including tow trucks – that have their lights on as well as cars that have their flashers on and then move over one lane if and when you see them.

Also, watch for people on the roadside that may be in or near a disabled vehicle.

And just because you don’t immediately see them doesn’t mean they are not there.

If you find yourself stranded on the side of the road, pull over on the shoulder of the road as far as you can and turn your hazard lights on if you cannot make it safely to the next exit.

Then, call for assistance via phone, website, or the AAA Mobile app and remain with your vehicle as long as it’s safe to do so.

Also, avoid turning your back to traffic whenever possible.

If getting out of your vehicle, watch the oncoming traffic for a suitable time to exit, and remain alert and close to your vehicle.

For more safe driving tips you can go online to www.aaa.com.