COLUMBUS, Ohio — Proposed changes to Ohio’s existing “move over, slow down” law may soon encompass vehicles experiencing mechanical distress. State Senator Stephen Wilson (R-7th District) introduced Senate Bill 178 on October 19, aiming to broaden the scope of the current law to include motorists dealing with mechanical issues. The bill has found support from co-sponsors William P. DeMora, Bob D. Hackett, and Michael A. Rulli.
The legislation defines “distressed vehicles” as those that are stopped and displaying flashing lights, flares, or other hazard indicators. However, it does not pertain to unattended stationary vehicles.
Move-over laws are currently in effect in all 50 states, but only 19 of them specifically mandate that drivers accommodate disabled vehicles.
Ohio’s current move-over law obliges motorists to:
- Come to a stop when approaching any authorized emergency vehicle displaying red visual signals and/or lights from any direction.
- Move into another lane and reduce speed when passing any vehicle with amber or yellow flashing signals and/or lights.
Sen. Wilson expressed his concern in a press release, stating, “What seems like a common courtesy for drivers to give space to those along the road, sadly there is a lack of understanding of who that applies to.”
Senate Bill 178, if passed, will prohibit drivers from failing to change lanes or exercise caution when approaching a stationary distressed vehicle. The bill specifies misdemeanor charges for those who violate this law, with more severe charges for motorists with prior convictions or guilty pleas for motor vehicle or traffic offenses.
The bill also outlines additional fines for cases where distracted driving contributes to the violation.
According to data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, Ohio has witnessed 57 fatalities on its roadways since 2017 involving individuals outside of disabled vehicles.
Senator Wilson emphasized the importance of the proposed changes, stating, “Making it a practice to move over for everyone at the side of the road can increase compliance and, in turn, make the roads safer.”
