WATCH OUT FOR "MOVE OVER" LAW!

Today I got one of those emails you just don't know it is through but I checked!

My email began by stating:

"New Law: If a patrol car is pulled over to the side of the road, you have to change to the next lane (away from the stopped vehicle) or slow down by 20 mph. Every state except Hawaii and Maryland and the D.C. has this law. " It also said the law took effect January,01 2010 and I found a lot of testimonials on the net from people who were fined!

As it turns out here in Texas the law has taken effect since 2003! Here is a copy of the Law from the Texas Department of Public Safety website: 

New Traffic Laws Take Effect

Driving-related legislation taking effect September 1, 2003:

SB 193 requires drivers nearing stopped emergency vehicles-with lights activated -to either slow down or change lanes.

The law states a driver must either vacate the lane closest to the stopped emergency vehicle if the road has multiple lanes traveling in the same direction or slow down 20 miles per hour below the speed limit. (If the speed limit is below 25 mph the driver must slow down to 5 mph.)

Emergency vehicles include police, emergency medical service and fire vehicles.

A violation is punishable by a maximum fine of $200. If the violation results in property damage, the maximum fine increases to $500. If the violation results in bodily injury, the offense is enhanced to a Class B misdemeanor.

So visit your local DPS website to find out what is going on in the state you are at. Fasten your seat belt and drive safely and please, NEVER drive your kids without their carseats!

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