Updated Move Over Law Takes Effect Early July
Updated Move Over Law Takes Effect Early July
A newly updated “move over” law goes into effect across South Dakota on Tuesday, July 1, expanding protections for authorized vehicles occupying the shoulder of the highway with amber, yellow or blue warning lights. The goal is simple, keep more people safe on the state’s roadways.
The expanded law now requires drivers to take action when approaching any vehicle displaying flashing amber, yellow or blue lights — not just law enforcement or emergency responders. The law includes tow trucks, highway maintenance vehicles, utility crews and department of transportation equipment using proper hazard lighting while on the shoulder.
“These are real people – moms, dads, sons and daughters – working hard or handling emergencies at the roadside,” said Colonel Casey Collins, South Dakota Highway Patrol superintendent.
What Drivers Must Do
• On multi-lane highways – Drivers must move into the lane farthest away from the stopped vehicle, when it’s safe to do so, and pass with caution.
• On two-lane roads – Drivers are required to slow down at least 300 feet in advance, and reduce speed to 20 mph below the posted limit, or to five mph if the speed limit is 20 mph or less.
Consequences for Violating the Law
• Violations are a Class Two misdemeanor, carrying a minimum fine of $270
• If a crash occurs because of a violation, the offense becomes a Class One misdemeanor, which comes with steeper penalties
“The bottom line is this, if you see flashing lights, slow down, move over and give extra space,” Collins said. “Whether it’s a trooper conducting a stop, a worker fixing a guardrail or a DOT vehicle on the shoulder, they all deserve to go home safely.”
South Dakota’s move over law can be read at https://tinyurl.com /5n8zftxv.
