Salt Lake City, UT – Utah transportation officials are urging drivers across the state to slow down and move over for emergency responders after releasing a new video today showing how quickly highway situations can turn dangerous.
According to the Utah Department of Public Safety (DPS) and Utah Highway Patrol (UHP), drivers are legally required to move to an available lane when approaching emergency vehicles stopped on the shoulder. When a lane change is not possible due to traffic, drivers must reduce speed significantly. Officials said failure to follow the law can result in a $160 citation.
The newly released clip, posted Monday morning, shows a vehicle approaching a roadside emergency response scene along a Utah interstate. In the video, DPS highlights the proper steps drivers should take, including slowing down early, signaling, and safely moving one lane away from flashing lights. Troopers said the reminder comes at a critical time, as roadside responder injuries continue to rise nationwide.
According to UHP, there have been multiple recent incidents where troopers and tow truck operators were nearly hit on Utah highways. Officials emphasized that even a moment of distraction can create a life-threatening situation for those working just feet from high-speed traffic.
The Move Over law applies to police, firefighters, paramedics, tow operators, and any vehicle displaying flashing emergency lights. DPS said the goal of the renewed push is not to increase citations, but to prevent injuries and deaths along Utah roadways.
Drivers are encouraged to stay alert, avoid speeding, and give extra space whenever they see an emergency vehicle ahead—especially during heavy morning and evening traffic when visibility and reaction times are reduced.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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