When you see flashing lights or a disabled vehicle along the road, slow down and move over. It’s more than a courtesy to roadside workers and emergency responders. In Pennsylvania, it’s the law, and following it can save a life.
Ahead of National Slow Down, Move Over Day on Oct. 17, AAA Central Penn is reminding motorists about the importance of Pennsylvania’s Slow Down Move Over law and the responsibility every driver has to help protect people working along our roadways.
More Than 30% of Drivers Fail to Slow Down or Move Over
Research from the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety highlights a concerning gap between what drivers say and what they do.
More than 90% of drivers surveyed reported moving over and/or slowing down the last time they passed a disabled vehicle, tow truck or police car on the shoulder. However, previous AAA observational research found that only 64% of vehicles subject to Slow Down Move Over laws were actually observed changing lanes and/or reducing speed. Thirty-six percent did neither.
The consequences can be devastating. In 2025, AAA responded to more than 30 million roadside events near active traffic, and 16 service providers were killed in Slow Down Move Over-related incidents.
“Slowing down and moving over is not only the right thing to do, it is the law in Pennsylvania and it can save a life,” said AAA Central Penn Vice President of Automotive Rob Finley.
What Does Pennsylvania’s Slow Down Move Over Law Require?
Pennsylvania law requires drivers approaching an emergency response area or disabled vehicle to safely merge into a lane farther away.
If moving over isn’t possible, drivers must pass the area or vehicle at a speed no more than 20 mph below the posted speed limit.
When approaching flashing lights, hazard lights or a stopped vehicle:
- Slow down early.
- Move over when it is safe to do so.
- Stay alert and eliminate distractions.
- Give roadside workers and emergency responders plenty of space.
Slow Down. Move Over. Save a Life.
Roadside technicians work just feet from moving traffic while helping stranded motorists get safely back on their way.
Behind every tow truck, roadside assistance vehicle and set of flashing lights is a person doing their job and someone waiting for them to come home.
The next time you approach a stopped vehicle, remember: Slow down. Move over. It can save a life.
