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10/17/05-A bill in the Joint Committee on Transportation is designed to protect police and other emergency personnel during roadside stops.
S1869, dubbed the “Move Over” bill, would require motorists to yield the right-of-way when an ambulance or police vehicle is approaching with lights and sirens activated.
They also would be required to maintain a safe distance and reduce speed when approaching stationary emergency vehicles by the road with their lights flashing.
Sponsored by Sen. Jarrett Barrios, D-Cambridge, it would require drivers to merge into a lane further away from an emergency vehicle. On two-lane highways, drivers would be required to reduce speed by 20 mph before passing the emergency vehicle.
Failure to obey the rule would result in a $50 fine.
For Senate bill status, call (617) 722-1276.
Two similar House bills – H1966 and H2062 – also are before the Transportation panel.
S1869, dubbed the “Move Over” bill, would require motorists to yield the right-of-way when an ambulance or police vehicle is approaching with lights and sirens activated.
They also would be required to maintain a safe distance and reduce speed when approaching stationary emergency vehicles by the road with their lights flashing.
Sponsored by Sen. Jarrett Barrios, D-Cambridge, it would require drivers to merge into a lane further away from an emergency vehicle. On two-lane highways, drivers would be required to reduce speed by 20 mph before passing the emergency vehicle.
Failure to obey the rule would result in a $50 fine.
For Senate bill status, call (617) 722-1276.
Two similar House bills – H1966 and H2062 – also are before the Transportation panel.