The Georgia Department of Transportation (Georgia DOT) is reminding motorists across the state to slow down, move over, and remain alert when approaching emergency responders along roadways as National Crash Responder Safety Week gets underway.
The annual observance runs from Monday, November 2, through Friday, November 6, and is recognized in partnership with the Federal Highway Administration. This year’s theme is “Slow Down, Move Over. Lives Are on the Line.”
The campaign emphasizes the importance of protecting law enforcement officers, firefighters, emergency medical personnel, tow truck operators, highway maintenance crews, and others who routinely put their lives at risk while responding to crashes and roadside emergencies.
Georgia DOT is also reminding drivers about the state’s Move Over Law, which requires motorists to move over one lane, when possible, when approaching stopped emergency or utility vehicles performing official duties along the roadway.
The law applies to law enforcement, fire and EMS vehicles, utility trucks, Georgia DOT vehicles, Highway Emergency Response Operator (HERO) units, Coordinated Highway Assistance and Maintenance Program (CHAMP) vehicles, and wreckers assisting at crash scenes.
When changing lanes is not possible, drivers must reduce their speed below the posted speed limit and be prepared to stop.
Motorists who fail to comply with Georgia’s Move Over Law can face fines of up to $500.
Transportation officials warn that the consequences of failing to slow down or move over can extend far beyond financial penalties.
According to federal data cited by Georgia DOT, traffic crashes claim the lives of law enforcement officers more than any other cause of death in the line of duty. Officials stress that these crashes can be prevented when motorists exercise proper caution.
Throughout the week, Georgia DOT will highlight different aspects of roadside safety, including driver education, responder training, highway emergency operations, and the importance of quickly and safely clearing roadway incidents.
Monday’s focus is the national kickoff and the importance of slowing down and moving over. Tuesday will emphasize driver education and state Move Over laws, while Wednesday will focus on responder training, with a national goal of reaching one million trained first responders.
Thursday will recognize highway heroes and quick clearance efforts, while Friday will highlight the dangers responders face during all types of roadside incidents, not just major traffic crashes.
Georgia DOT is encouraging motorists to take several precautions when approaching crash scenes or emergency vehicles.
Drivers should reduce their speed, maintain a safe following distance, and watch carefully for emergency personnel working near moving traffic. Motorists should also be prepared for unexpected lane shifts, roadway debris, and sudden traffic stops.
Officials also stress the importance of obeying posted traffic signs and directions from emergency responders while eliminating distractions such as cell phones and other electronic devices.
Georgia DOT will share educational messages throughout the week on its website and social media platforms to reinforce the importance of roadside safety.
The department says its ultimate goal is to eliminate traffic-related fatalities on Georgia roadways.
Motorists traveling throughout Northwest Georgia and across the state are encouraged to remember that slowing down and moving over can make the difference between life and death for those working along the highway.