SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/drive-move-over-law

You see a stopped emergency vehicle with flashing lights on the shoulder. What do move over laws require?

Move over a lane if it is safe, or slow down.

  1. Speed up to get past quickly
  2. Keep your speed and stay in your lane
  3. Move over a lane if safe, or slow down ✔

Why: When you near a stopped emergency vehicle, tow truck or road work vehicle with flashing lights, move out of the lane next to it if you safely can. If you cannot, slow down.

Huh, didn't know that: California's law also covers tow trucks and road work vehicles with flashing amber lights. Check your state's version.

The dad joke
Why did the ambulance like the driver? He always gave it some space!
Like this card?
Play the game

References

Answer: Move over a lane if safe, or slow down. When you near a stopped emergency vehicle, tow truck or road work vehicle with flashing lights, move out of the lane next to it if you safely can. If you cannot, slow down.

  1. California Driver's Handbook, Section 7: Laws and Rules of the Road (Continued) www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/handbook/california-driver-handbook/laws-and-rules-of-the-road-cont1
    Drivers must move over and slow down for emergency and road work vehicles.
    Checked 2026-10-09.
  2. New York State Driver's Manual, Chapter 5: Intersections and Turns dmv.ny.gov/new-york-state-drivers-manual-and-practice-tests/chapter-5-intersections-and-turns
    Drivers must reduce speed on all roads when encountering such vehicles
    Checked 2026-10-09.

Think this answer is wrong? Tap "Challenge this answer" on the card in the game and tell us why.

Test yourself in the game

Cars & DrivingAn ambulance with lights and siren is coming toward you. What should you do?Cars & DrivingWhat is safer than weaving through traffic?Cars & DrivingIn good conditions, what minimum following gap do many state manuals recommend?

That's stuff everyone should know.