Maryland’s ‘Move Over’ Law Will Expand Again in October

Based on a recent bill (SB0147) signed into law by Governor Larry Hogan on April 21, Maryland’s “Move Over” law will expand once again on October 1, 2022. In Maryland, the law was originally enacted in October 2014 requiring motorists to move over for emergency vehicles, law enforcement vehicles and tow trucks. The law was expanded in 2019 to include service vehicles such as transportation, service and utility vehicles, as well as waste and recycling trucks that have their lights flashing.

The expanded law that will be enacted on October 1st, later this year, will require a driver to make a lane change or slow the speed of their vehicle when approaching from the rear any stopped, standing or parked vehicle displaying hazard warning lights, road flares or other caution signals including traffic cones, caution signs or non-vehicular warning lights. The expanded law is aimed toward protecting all road users.

Maryland Transportation Authority (MDTA) Police Chief Col. Kevin M. Anderson said in a statement to WMAR, “Almost every officer can remember a scene where a vehicle failed to move over and passed within inches of them at highway speeds. Our safety is dependent on drivers doing the right thing – moving over when possible or slowing down to a speed that will keep everyone safe.”