New York Governor Kathy Hochul has signed legislation expanding the state’s Slow Down/Move Over laws. The expansion will now include disabled vehicles which are parked on the shoulder of a controlled access highway or parkway throughout the state.
The legislation was sponsored by New York Senator Lea Webb (D-52) and Assemblyman Kenneth Zebrowski (D-96). The law will now require an “operator of a motor vehicle to exercise due care to avoid colliding with a vehicle which is parked, stopped, or standing on the shoulder of a parkway or controlled access highway.”
AAA Spokesperson for Western and Central New York, Elizabeth Carey, says she expects this law to save more lives.
“I am proud that we were able to work with our partners at AAA to get this legislation passed,” said Senator Lea Webb. “This bill will decrease the numbers of fatalities and serious injuries that occur due to crashes involving a stopped or disabled vehicle on our roadways.”
Current NYS law requires drivers to use “due care” and reduce their speed, and when possible, move from the lane when they approach flashing emergency lights, including law enforcement, emergency workers, tow and service operators, and maintenance workers.
The new expansion now includes any motor vehicle which is parked, stopped, or standing on the shoulder. The law will go into effect in 180 days.
