Texas Drivers Reminded to Slow Down for Workers and Responders

The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) is reminding drivers to help protect roadside workers and first responders during Crash Responder Safety Week, observed statewide from Nov. 17–21. The agency’s Be Safe. Drive Smart. campaign urges Texans to slow down, move over, and show courtesy to those who work just inches from fast-moving traffic.

Roadside crews, including law enforcement, firefighters, paramedics, tow operators, utility workers, municipal waste staff, and TxDOT employees, face constant danger from distracted or speeding drivers. Even a moment of inattention can lead to serious injury or death.

To reduce that risk, Texas’ Move Over or Slow Down law requires drivers to shift one lane away from vehicles stopped on the shoulder with flashing lights. If changing lanes isn’t safe or possible, motorists must reduce their speed by 20 mph below the posted limit. On streets with speed limits of 25 mph or lower, drivers must slow to 5 mph.

Move Over or Slow Down Law Update

As of Sept. 1, 2025, the law now also covers vehicles operated by animal control officers and parking enforcement employees.

TxDOT offers several reminders for drivers approaching roadside responders:

Be alert and pay attention when approaching roadside law enforcement, first responders, tow trucks, utility service vehicles and TxDOT vehicles with flashing lights on.
When possible, move out of the lane closest to these vehicles.
Slow down to 20 mph below the posted speed limit if safely switching lanes is not possible or the road doesn’t offer multiple lanes.
Reduce speed to 5 mph on roadways with a posted speed limit of 25 mph or less.

Ignoring Texas Law Can Be... Costly

Violations can result in fines up to $1,250 for a first offense. Drivers who cause serious injury may face fines up to $4,000 and potential jail time.

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The Be Safe. Drive Smart. effort supports TxDOT’s broader Drive Like a Texan: Kind. Courteous. Safe. initiative, encouraging drivers to show responsibility and respect on the road. More information is available at DriveLikeATexan.com.