Mississippi requires drivers to move over for stopped emergency vehicles

Mississippi law requires drivers to move over for emergency vehicles stopped on the side of the road, a department said in a Facebook post reminding motorists to slow if they cannot safely change lanes.

Mississippi Code § 63-3-809 requires drivers to move over for emergency vehicles stopped on the roadway shoulder, the post said. It added that slowing is acceptable when changing lanes is unsafe and that the rule is intended to protect officers and other first responders.

The social media message used a conversational tone and a short rhyme to encourage compliance, saying, “If you see blue lights making the shoulder shine bright, Move over a lane and continue your flight.” The post also warned ignoring the move-over law could affect insurance rates and increase the risk of collisions.

Move-over laws are common across the United States and generally require motorists to switch lanes or reduce speed when passing stopped emergency, law enforcement or roadside assistance vehicles to reduce struck-by incidents.

Officials asked drivers to use turn signals, give officers room and pass cautiously. We will provide more information as it becomes available.