What does the Texas Move Over/Slow Down law require?

The Texas Move Over/Slow Down law requires drivers to move over or slow down for stopped emergency vehicles. This law is designed to enhance the safety of emergency personnel who may be working on or near the roadway, such as police officers, firefighters, and medical personnel. When a driver approaches a stationary emergency vehicle with its lights flashing, they are mandated to either move to an adjacent lane if possible or reduce their speed to a safe level if moving over is not feasible. This helps protect both the emergency personnel and other road users.

In contrast, increasing speed when passing a vehicle can create unsafe conditions by posing a risk to both the driver and the personnel on the side of the road. Remaining in one’s lane at all times does not consider the need to safely navigate around stopped emergency vehicles. Finally, while not making abrupt maneuvers is generally good driving practice, it does not directly pertain to the specifics of the law regarding emergency vehicles and can be too vague in nature.