'Move-Over Law' saves lives

As construction of the Savannah River Parkway progresses through Jenkins County to Augusta, local citizens should observe Georgia's "Move Over Law" which requires drivers to move-over one lane if possible whenever an emergency vehicle on the side of the road displays emergency lights.

If traffic is too congested to move-over safely, the law requires that drivers simply slow down below the posted speed limit and be prepared to stop. Enforced in Georgia since 2003, violation of the law carries a $500 fine.

Prior to the nationwide Move Over Law, approximately 150 law enforcement officers have been struck and killed by vehicles along the nation's highways since 1997.

Also, the Department of Transportation (DOT) data shows that three out of four DOT work zone fatalities are motorists or their passengers. During 2005, 61 Georgians were killed in road construction work zone crashes.

"When the required clearance is given to a roadside emergency vehicle, the margin of safety is increased not only for public safety and emergency personnel, but for passing motorists and their passengers as well," said Director Bob Dallas, Governor's Office of Highway Safety.