An Act relative to the move over law
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Progress
Where this bill stands in the legislative process.
- Introduced
- Passed House
- Passed Senate
- To Governor
- Became Law
Overview
This bill strengthens Massachusetts’ “move over” law, which requires drivers to change lanes or slow down when approaching vehicles with flashing lights, such as emergency vehicles, highway maintenance vehicles, or vehicle recovery crews. The law aims to increase safety for these workers by reducing the risk of collisions. Specifically, the bill clarifies the scope of vehicles covered and emphasizes the responsibility of drivers to take action.
Key provisions
- Expands the definition of covered vehicles to include highway maintenance and vehicle recovery vehicles.
- Reinforces the obligation for drivers to change lanes or reduce speed when approaching stationary emergency vehicles.
- Clarifies that the ‘move over’ law applies even when a passing lane is not immediately available.
- Requires drivers to maintain a safe distance behind vehicles with flashing lights.
Who is affected
- Drivers
- Emergency responders
- Highway maintenance workers
- Vehicle recovery personnel
Notable changes
- The bill clarifies the types of vehicles covered by the ‘move over’ law.
- It emphasizes the continuous responsibility of drivers to take action, regardless of passing lane availability.
Bill text
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Sponsors
Official sponsors from legislative records.
4 on record
Primary sponsor
Kenneth I. Gordon
Cosponsors
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