Every day, thousands of law enforcement officers, first responders and road maintenance crews work on Texas highways braving high-speed traffic and distracted drivers. Tragically, many of them are injured or killed on the job. To help prevent harm to these essential workers, TxDOT urges drivers to abide by the state’s “Move Over or Slow Down” law.
Most drivers know to pull over for first responders driving behind or toward them, but Texas law also requires motorists to move over—putting a lane between them and roadside workers—or slow their speed to 20 mph below the posted speed limit when passing law enforcement, tow trucks, utility vehicles, emergency responders and TxDOT vehicles stopped with activated overhead lights on the side of the road.
Penalties for failing to follow the law were strengthened in 2023, and drivers can receive a fine of up to $1,250 for a first offense. Drivers who cause serious injuries while neglecting the law may face jail time and a fine of up to $4,000.
