What to Do When You See Flashing Lights in Texas

(Texas) Move Over or Slow Down, Texas.

What Is the Texas Move Over Law?

That is the law in the Lone Star State. It's simple and easy to remember, yet drivers ignore it.

Imagine if you were a law enforcement officer, a tow truck driver, or an EMT working a scene with a trouble motorist or accident, and traffic was zooming by you at 75 m.p.h. I'm sure it would be a bit unnerving and would seem dangerous. That's because it is. These first responders and others are in harm's way when it comes to working these scenes near other traffic. Even city street traffic with lower speed limits can be dangerous.

I don't know how many times I have been on I-20 headed to Dallas or driving in Tyler to a drive-thru for dinner, and saw flashing lights from an emergency vehicle, and drivers simply ignore the law and pass right by those flashing lights and take no evasive action.

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What Drivers Are Required to Do

Since September 2003, Texas law requires drivers who come upon an emergency vehicle with its lights flashing to do one of two things:

• Drivers must move out of the lane closest to the emergency vehicle until they pass
• Drivers must slow down to 20 mph below the posted speed limit

Why This Law Protects First Responders

Taking one of these actions helps protect law enforcement, police, fire, and emergency medical services (EMS). It can help them avoid being struck by passing vehicles. However, distracted and inattentive drivers will continue to drive as they normally do without any consideration for the life in that emergency vehicle that has its lights activated.

READ MORE --> Texas Law Requires You To Have A Front License Plate

Vehicles Covered Under the Law

In addition to police, fire, and EMS, the law has been expanded over the years and now includes:

• TxDOT vehicles with lights flashing
• utility service vehicles
• tow trucks
• municipal waste trucks
• animal control vehicles
• parking enforcement vehicles

Penalties for Violating the Law

If you are caught not moving over or slowing down, you could face a hefty fine ranging from $1,250 to $4,000. (TxDOT) The best way to avoid this fine is to Move Over or Slow Down when you approach those flashing lights. They're not that hard to miss. If you are caught and are a repeat offender, you could have your driver's license suspended and possibly face jail time if someone is injured. (The Crash Team)

When you see those flashing lights, whether on an interstate or a city street, remember to Move Over or Slow Down. Protect those who are protecting, serving, and saving our lives while on the job.