Washington State Troopers have launched their "Move Over, Slow Down" patrols to educate drivers about the importance of the law that requires motorists to move over or slow down when approaching emergency or work zones.
Over the next two months, drivers should expect to see more flashing emergency lights on state highways. Under state law, drivers approaching emergency or work zones must either move over one lane or slow down by at least 10 mph below the posted speed limit.
Emergency zones and work zones are defined as the 200 feet of roadway before and after the incident or area of work. The law covers police, fire, and ambulance crews, as well as tow trucks and work crews with vehicles that have audible or visual signals.
Tow truck operators, in particular, are urging drivers to slow down and move over. Towing and Recovery Admininstration of Washington Administrative Director Emily Wade emphasized that even a small reduction in speed can make a lifesaving difference when roadside workers are at risk from drivers traveling past at high speeds.