West Virginia’s move over law gets major updates: ‘Not just fines—you could face jail’

WHEELING, W.Va. (WTRF) — West Virginia’s “Slow Down, Move Over Law” is getting a major update on Friday.

Since 2003, this law has required drivers to slow down or change lanes for first responders. With the update, starting July 11, drivers will have to move for almost anyone on the side of the road, including roadside workers and broken-down vehicles.

One AAA official says it’s not just about respect on the road; it’s about safety.

Following Gov. Patrick Morrisey’s expansion on the Move Over Law, the hope of these additions is to reduce the risk of accidents and keep both pedestrians and emergency personnel out of harm’s way.

“This is the time of year when people are heading out on road trips, you have an increase in roadside breakdowns and for people waiting for roadside assistance, changing a tire or making a quick fix you have to give them that same courtesy as well,” AAA Director of Public Affairs Jim Garrity said.

Garrity says if for whatever reason you can’t move over, please slow down. He says this new update is focused on safety and avoiding life-threatening situations. For drivers that don’t comply, they’ll be facing serious consequences.

“If you don’t move over for everyone on the roadside you could be facing fines of up to $500, you could potentially face jail time. It’s not just fines or points on your license, it could be the difference between someone living and dying,” Garrity said.

As a reminder, if you see someone on the side of the road please MOVE OVER and SLOW DOWN.