Massachusetts is considering an increase in penalties for violations of the "Move Over" law, with support from the State Police Association of Massachusetts (SPAM), the body argues improved enforcement could save the lives of first responders. The "Move Over" law came into effect in 2009 and obliges drivers to slow down and move to another lane when they see stopped emergency vehicles, if safe to do so. As it stands, the fine for non-compliance is $100 CBS News reported.
Rep. Kenneth Gordon proposed a bill to this law's violations with a first offense increasing to $250. His proposed alterations also included the introduction of a potential $5,000 fine and up to one year in jail for causing injury due to violation according to CBS News. Similarly, bills by Rep. Steven Xiarhos and former Sen. Anne Gobi looked to strengthen the law and suggested second-time offenders having to pay the fine of $500 and $1,000 for committing the same mistake for a third or subsequent time as per WCVB report.
Several incidents of injuries to first responders due to failure to abide by the "Move Over" law has raised an alarm to the lawmakers and underscored the need for enhanced road safety measures. The Boston Herald recently brought attention to the detremential impacts that effect the lives of Massachusetts State Police involved in these cases, due to the negligence of drivers.
The State Police Association of Massachusetts has requested the proposed legislation bear the name of Trooper Thomas Devlin, who tragically lost his life after being struck by a vehicle during a traffic stop in 2018 according to Boston Herald. The proposed amendments to the "Move Over" law aim to improve road safety and primarily to maintain lives and the well-being of those first responders serving the community.
