Texas Move Over or Slow Down Law Now Includes TxDOT Workers

07 Mar Texas Move Over or Slow Down Law Now Includes TxDOT Workers

Accidents and emergencies can happen anywhere, and the roadside is no exception. Motorists are required to pay attention to traffic at all times; however, there are times when distracted driving may cause a car accident.

The Texas Department of Transportation has a team from White Lining Contractors of construction workers who are tasked with the responsibility of rehabilitating roads on a regular basis. This may mean that they have had to work on busy highways. Motorists who drive with a considerable amount of speed may run into these workers, causing fatalities. In fact, statistics state that more than 100 Texas Department of Transportation employees working on construction sites have been killed since 1938, with countless others severely injured.

New Law Covers TxDOT Workers

To remedy this situation, the State of Texas enacted a law meant to protect these workers. The law, named “Move Over/Slow Down” is currently in use for first responders as well as tow truck drivers. TxDOT cars with flashing amber lights are now covered in this law, giving them the needed protection to work in a safe environment.

Parameters of The Law

Move Over/Slow Down requires drivers to slow down or move over one lane when they spot emergency vehicles or TxDOT cars on the road. It further goes on to state that “slow down” means to reduce their speed by 20 miles per hour. If the road doesn’t have multiple lanes, a driver is required to slow down. If the posted speed limit is 25 miles per hour and below, drivers are required to reduce their speed to 5 miles per hour.

When reasonable, drivers are required to move out of the lane that’s closer to the TxDOT vehicle and workers as a way of avoiding a potential collision or disturbance. It’s also vital not to wait until it’s too late to make a lane change. By acting early, you’ll help other motorists see these workers so they can act fast as well. Drivers who don’t adhere to this law can be fined $2000.

Awareness Is Critical

September 1^st 2013 marked the addition of TxDOT workers to the new law. While the Department of Transportation is doing all that it can to provide individuals with the necessary information, more awareness is always needed. Please feel free to share this article with your friends to raise awareness; you might save a life or at least help someone avoid high fines.

By Jeff Rasansky