Maryland’s lane change law to be changed in favor of drivers

In October, Maryland’s “Move Over” lane change law will be amended to affect all vehicles on the road.

Maryland law currently requires a driver to change lanes or slow down if a parked special or emergency vehicle with emergency lights or any other warning lights is on its way. Drivers in Maryland must drive carefully when approaching law enforcement, tow trucks, utility vehicles, and other emergency vehicles parked on highways with flashing red or yellow lights.

From October 1, this rule will apply to any stopped vehicle showing warning signals. In other words, the driver is required to change lanes or slow down when he sees a regular car with emergency lights on.

If it is not possible to change lanes, the driver must slow down to a safe speed, taking into account all weather and road conditions.

Breaking the law will result in a $110 fine and one point on your driver’s license. If the violation results in an accident, the fine will be $150 and three points. In the event of death or serious injury, the fine is $750 and three points.

Maryland’s original “Move Over” law was passed in 2010 and only provided protection for emergency services, law enforcement, and CHART trucks that provide roadside assistance to motorists.

In 2014, the law was extended to tow truckers.