A pressing concern for a Kentucky state lawmaker centers around the state’s move-over rule. The inaugural House bill introduced in the 2024 regular session aims to include Kentucky among the states modifying move-over regulations to encompass all users of the highway.
This adjustment has already been implemented by four neighboring states. Presently, over 20 states have broadened their move-over laws to cover all road users, with Maryland, Arizona, Connecticut, Illinois, Iowa, Oklahoma, Oregon, and Pennsylvania leading the way since 2023.
Proposed by Kentucky State Representative Mary Beth Imes of Murray, House Bill 19 seeks to extend the move-over requirement to include any “disabled vehicle” displaying a warning signal.
The existing move-over law in Kentucky, in place since 2003, mandates drivers to shift to an adjacent lane when approaching an emergency or public safety vehicle with flashing lights. If a lane change is unsafe, drivers must reduce speed and proceed with caution. Currently applicable to law enforcement, firefighters, paramedics, and towing vehicles, violations incur fines and potential jail time.
HB19 proposes an expansion to cover any vehicle displaying warning signals like emergency flashers, flares, or retroreflective signals. AAA Bluegrass supports this bill, emphasizing the need to protect all road users parked along the roadside for any reason. The bill awaits consideration in committee.
Across the state line in Ohio, a Senate bill sponsored by Senator Steve Wilson aims to broaden the move-over law to include any stationary vehicle in “distress.”
Failure to change lanes or proceed with caution around a distressed stationary vehicle could result in a misdemeanor offense. Those with previous traffic violations within the past year could face increased charges. An additional $100 charge may apply if distracted driving is a contributing factor.
Senate Bill 178 is currently under review in the Ohio Senate Transportation Committee. Advocates, including the Ohio State Highway Patrol, argue that the existing law is confusing for drivers, and Wilson’s bill seeks to clarify and enhance current regulations, emphasizing that providing space can be crucial for saving lives.
“If any of you have ever been out along an interstate and had to change a tire, it is a scary, scary thing,” Wilson said.
Source: Land Line
