With so many of us visiting family and friends this season, we spend a lot of time in the car. Although we understand that car accidents can be very serious and work to prevent these risks, there is another important safety consideration that we must remember: protecting those on the side of the road. How we drive can either protect or endanger emergency responders working on the side of the road.
Law enforcement places themselves in many risky situations, but one of the riskiest is when they are helping to provide assistance or protect the public by pulling a car over on the side of the road. This leaves them extremely vulnerable to severe injury or even death – especially if the vehicles whizzing by don’t take preventative measures.
All Fifty States Implement a Move Over Law
The Move Over law was first put into effect in 1996 in South Carolina after a state paramedic was injured at the scene of an accident after being struck by a car. The number of injuries and deaths of those in the line of duty, unfortunately, increased, causing the remaining states, including Arizona, to implement their own version of the law.
Arizona’s Move Over law requires drivers to reduce speed, and, if safe to do so, vacate the lane closest to any stationary vehicles with flashing or warning lights, including emergency vehicles and tow trucks.
What Can You Do?
One of the most proactive things that drivers can do to prevent serious injury or death of those on the side of the road is to remain alert at all times while behind the wheel. This provides them with enough notice to see these vehicles and personnel on the side of the road to safely move over to the adjacent lane in time.
It is for this reason that distracted driving should be avoided at all costs. This includes everything from putting on makeup and changing the radio, to texting or even speaking with someone on the phone. Not only is distracted driving extremely dangerous to you and others on the road, but it is important to keep in mind that it is also illegal.
The Attorneys at Arizona Lawyers Can Help Those Who Have Been Injured in an Auto Vehicle Accident
Auto vehicle accidents can impact victims from a physical, emotional, and financial perspective. This is why it is in your best interest to consult with a knowledgeable and experienced Arizona personal injury attorney, who can negotiate a fair settlement on your behalf.
At Arizona Lawyers, our personal injury attorneys have a deep knowledge of how car, truck, and motorcycle accidents work. We have a long history of dealing with insurance companies and always have our clients’ best interests at heart. To learn more or to schedule a free consultation, visit us online or contact us today!