Concerned about the safety of people on roadsides, police will step up enforcement of Minnesota's "Move Over" law on Saturday.
State law says that motorists must get out of the way and move over a lane for a stopped emergency or maintenance vehicle using its emergency lights. Law enforcement agencies around the state will be increasing enforcement of the Ted Foss Move Over law as a reminder that emergency responders need room on the road to work safely.
"The side of any road can be a very dangerous place, especially for emergency and maintenance personnel who are there to provide a service that helps keep our roads safe for everyone," said Donna Berger, Office of Traffic Safety director. "We ask all motorists to do their part by safely moving over one lane to help ensure everyone's safety.
The law is named after State Patrol Trooper Ted Foss, who was hit and killed 13 years ago as he was making a traffic stop on the shoulder of I-90 near Winona.
Law enforcement also will keep up a statewide DWI crackdown through Labor Day.
"Move Over" law
- On road with two or more lanes, you must be a lane away from stopped emergency vehicles with lights flashing — ambulance, fire, law enforcement, maintenance and construction vehicles.
- If you can't safely move over a lane, you must reduce speed.
- Fines can exceed $100.
