Move Over Law – Stricter Rules
COLUMBUS, Ohio — A bipartisan coalition of Ohio lawmakers is pushing to fortify the state’s Move Over Law, proposing stricter rules requiring drivers to give space to any vehicle displaying hazard lights.
The need for action is undeniable. On a spring night in 2024, a tow truck operator assisting at a crash site was blindsided by an oncoming vehicle. The impact was catastrophic.
“He was trying to load the car onto the bed—then, out of nowhere, another vehicle came flying in. No slowing down. No stopping. Just bam!” a witness told police, captured on Cleveland Police body camera footage.
The 53-year-old operator was sent airborne, suffering severe leg injuries. The driver who struck him? They fled.
A Crisis on the Roads
For DriveTeam President Drew Salyer, incidents like this are tragically routine.
“Our hands follow our eyes—where you look is where your vehicle goes,” Salyer explained. “We’re seeing more and more drivers distracted behind the wheel, and the results are devastating.”
Under Ohio’s current Move Over Law, drivers must shift lanes or reduce speed for emergency responders, such as police, fire, and ambulance crews. However, State Sen. Kent Smith (D-Euclid) and Sen. Steve Wilson (R-Maineville) are pushing to expand these protections to any vehicle in distress—not just first responders.
Senate Bill 16: A Step Forward
If passed, Senate Bill 16 would require motorists to move over for any vehicle displaying:
Hazard lights
Red warning lights
Flares or emergency markers
Failure to comply could result in misdemeanor charges, hefty fines, and an additional $100 penalty for distracted driving.
“There’s been a surge in crashes and fatalities involving disabled vehicles,” Wilson stated. “This legislation could save lives.”
Salyer: Law Should Go Even Further
While DriveTeam supports the proposed bill, Salyer believes it doesn’t go far enough.
“If someone is pulled over, it’s usually for a good reason,” he said. “Drivers should give space—hazards on or not.”
The Bigger Picture: Safe Driving Saves Lives
With Senate Bill 16 set for legislative review, Ohio lawmakers are signaling a shift toward greater roadway accountability. But laws alone won’t fix the problem—awareness, education, and defensive driving are key.
At DriveTeam, we train drivers to stay alert, anticipate risks, and make quick, life-saving decisions. Whether it’s an emergency vehicle, a stranded motorist, or a roadside work crew, the safest choice is always the same: move over and slow down.
Stay aware. Stay safe. Stay in control.
More From Our Blog
The Importance of Pursuit Driver Training in Law Enforcement
As law enforcement leaders, ensuring the safety of both your officers and the public is a top priority. One of the critical components of officer education that often goes under-discussed is pursuit driver training. Pursuits involve high-stress, high-speed driving...
Fall Driving: What to Expect This October
October saw approximately 3,815 motor vehicle fatalities - Fall Driving 2023 Source: NHTSAWhat should we be aware of for fall driving this month?1. Changing Weather Conditions Rain, fog, frost, and wet leaves create slick roads, reduce traction, and impair visibility,...
RoadCheck Report Reveals U.S. Vehicle Violations Surpass North American Average
Commercial motor vehicle enforcement personnel in Canada, Mexico and the U.S. conducted 48,761 inspections during this year’s International Roadcheck. 23% percent of commercial motor vehicles and 5% of commercial motor vehicle drivers were put out-of-service (OOS)....