A recent incident on I-275 involving a Livonia police officer nearly being struck by a motorist has led to a reminder from the Livonia Police Department about Michigan's Move Over law. As reported by CBS News, a dashcam video captured an officer, who had stopped to clear debris off the road, nearly being hit by a driver who circumvented the officer on the shoulder. This close shave prompted another officer to pull over the driver and enforce a citation.
Michigan's Move Over Law, in effect since 2019, requires drivers to either shift into the next lane or decrease their speed by 10 mph when approaching emergency or service vehicles with activated lights. The law extends protection to various responders, including police, firefighters, EMS personnel, tow truck drivers, and road workers. Failure to comply can result in fines or even jail time – a stark consequence to reflect the danger involved. "Michigan's Move Over Law was enacted to protect the lives of police officers, firefighters, EMS personnel, tow truck drivers, & road workers," the Livonia Police Department posted on social media. "Please slow down and move over. Lives depend on it."
Michigan’s Move Over Law was enacted to protect the lives of police officers, firefighters, EMS personnel, tow truck drivers, & road workers.
— LIVONIA POLICE DEPT. (@LivoniaPD) July 11, 2025
We are thankful our officer was not injured. The driver was issued a citation.
Please Slow down and move over. Lives depend on it! pic.twitter.com/WDOXE1MECA
Offering insight into the widespread issue of roadside safety, retired Detroit Police Officer Steve Dolunt expressed astonishment at the disregard some drivers have for safety protocols. "I can't, why would you pass on the left where you see a police officer or anyone walking, amazing," Dolunt told FOX 2 Detroit. Furthermore, Michigan State Police Lt. Rene Gonzalez highlighted the ongoing risk law enforcement officials face, noting that "there are plenty of lanes available, and people are not paying attention, resulting in our vehicles being struck from behind."
