Too often, motorists get into a minor “fender-bender” accident, pull over on the shoulder of the road to exchange information with the other driver and end up being seriously injured or killed by another driver who is going too fast to avoid hitting them. Some of these victims are simply people whose cars have broken down or tires have gone flat.
A recent amendment to New Jersey’s “Move Over” law is intended to help prevent these needless injuries and deaths. In addition to requiring vehicles to move over a lane when there’s an ambulance, fire truck, tow truck or police car on the shoulder or the road itself, the law now requires drivers to move over for disabled vehicles.
The law applies to vehicles that have their hazard lights on or are using other warning indicators like road flares. Of course, it’s wise to do this when there’s any vehicle on the shoulder or stopped on the road itself. Drivers who violate the law can be fined up to $500.
A “life-saving measure”
How bad is this problem? According to AAA, between 2017 and 2021, nearly 2,000 people throughout the U.S. were killed by other vehicles while standing outside their vehicles. One AAA official called New Jersey’s recent change a “life-saving measure.” Similar laws are already in place in nearby states including Pennsylvania.
It’s too early to know if this expansion of the Move Over law will make a difference in public safety. It’s still best to remain inside your vehicle if you have to pull over, at least until help arrives. That’s particularly important if you’re on an interstate or other busy road. Even if you stay in your vehicle, however, there’s still the possibility of being struck and seriously injured.
If you or a loved one has suffered injuries or worse because a driver couldn’t or wouldn’t stop, it’s crucial to seek the compensation and justice you deserve. Having experienced legal guidance can help.