COLUMBUS, Ohio — Governor Mike DeWine, AAA, Ohio Department of Transportation, The Ohio State Highway Patrol, and the Risk Institute are reminding motorists in Ohio to “move-over, and slow down for emergency crews and roadside workers. October 16, has been designated, officials say, as “Move-Over Day”.
Groups along with ODOT will be using social media and over 130 digital signs to remind Ohioans of the law.
According to ODOT, there has been a total of 59 crashes over the last six years involving motorists who failed to move over in Pike, Pickaway, and Ross Counties.
Statewide, ODOT says, there have been 546 crashes in 2021 alone. ODOT says this has accounted for 21 deaths and 59 serious injuries.
“It is alarming to see the rise of crashes happening throughout our state,” said Governor DeWine. “It is critically important that all drivers remember to avoid distractions, pay attention, and stay focused on the road.”
“The men and women who work on and along our roads have a simple request for drivers: Help us get home safe at the end of the day by moving over and slowing down,” said ODOT Director Jack Marchbanks.
There are Move-Over laws in every state in the nation. In Ohio, the law requires drivers to move over and slow down for vehicles parked alongside the road with hazard lights flashing. The color of the lights and the number of lanes do not matter. Officials say the law is clear.
Those who do not comply with the Move Over law in Ohio are subject to charges and fines. “Moving over or slowing down for stationary vehicles with flashing lights is not just the law; it is the right thing to do,” said Colonel Richard S. Fambro of the Ohio State Highway Patrol.