Numerous crashes occur on United States highways and streets each day. Emergency responders and towing service technicians who arrive at the scene are at risk of getting hit by oncoming traffic, which is why each state has "move over" laws in place. Here is a closer look at the law and how it saves the lives of residents on the island of Kauai. 

What Is the Move Over Law?

This traffic law (Hawai‘i Revised Statutes 291C-27) requires motorists to slow down to a specific speed limit or, in Hawaii, a "reasonable speed" when approaching an emergency situation. If possible, the motorist should change lanes to provide at least one lane of distance between themselves and the scene. In Hawaii, this law "emergency vehicle" means a police or fire department vehicle, ocean safety vehicle, emergency medical services vehicle, freeway service patrol vehicle, sheriff division vehicle, Hawaii emergency management agency vehicle, county emergency management vehicle, civil defense vehicle, department of transportation harbors division vehicle, department of land and natural resources division of conservation and resources enforcement vehicle, or a tow truck.

How Does It Save Lives?

Emergency responders and towing service personnel are preoccupied with helping those involved in car crashes and roadside breakdowns. In the midst of doing their jobs, these individuals might not realize when they drift too far off the shoulder and too close to oncoming traffic. In early 2020, for example, a tow truck operator was struck and killed while responding to a call on the H-2 Freeway. “One operator is killed every six days in North America, so it is a common occurrence unfortunately. . 

The move over law reminds motorists to remain vigilant, helping keep civilians involved in emergency situations and those who come to their rescue out of harm's way. This not only reduces the number of traffic-related fatalities and severe injuries sustained on Hawaii's highways and streets, but also provides an incentive for motorists to prioritize keeping pedestrians safe. By following the rules, motorists don't risk having their lives altered, either. While violators will not get ticketed, it is a criminal violation, a KPD spokesperson clarified. “As applicable, drivers could be charged with negligent injuries or negligent homicide.”.

You can keep road specialists like the towing technicians at KindaQuik Towing safe while they are helping motorists throughout Kauai during emergencies. With over 25 years of combined experience, these fully insured, Wreck Master–certified technicians will provide prompt auto towing and roadside assistance when you need it. Find service information online, and call (808) 241-7845 for towing services. See equipment photos on Facebook.