(COLORADO) – When you hear the phrase, “slow down, move over,” do you know it references the requirement of drivers to safely clear a lane or slow down when approaching emergency, tow, and maintenance vehicles when their emergency lights are on? If so, well done, you’re in the minority! According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, only 30% of people know this law despite similar laws in ALL 50 states.
If you were not aware, let’s get you in “the know.” The Colorado law not only applies to police cars, fire trucks, and ambulances, but it applies to tow trucks and maintenance vehicles too. Considering how frequently motorists don’t move over or slow down for red and blue lights, imagine how much more people disregard the yellow flashing lights. With motorists failing to comply with this law, coupled with distractions taking their focus off of what is happening outside their vehicle, workers whose office is a road are vulnerable due to the dangers of those traveling around them.
“I believe the Towing Business to be the fourth emergency service. It is positioned after the Police, the Fire Fighters and the Emergency Ambulance service. The Towing Service keeps traffic moving and keeps people safe. It is, therefore, a most valuable community service to contribute to," said Richard Sanders, owner of Knob Hill Towing in Colorado Springs.
Whether you see red and blue lights or yellow lights flashing, Colorado state law requires drivers to safely move one lane away from emergency, tow, or maintenance vehicles. If unable, speed must be reduced to 20MPH below the posted speed limit.
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ABOUT THE COLORADO STATE PATROL
Since our origin in 1935, the Colorado State Patrol (CSP) has focused on preserving human life and protecting property within our communities. Our 1,100 members embody the core values of Honor, Duty, and Respect in their daily jobs. In addition to our expertise in motor vehicle safety on the state’s roadways, the CSP is responsible for the Governor and other dignitaries’ protection, commercial motor vehicle enforcement, hazardous materials, homeland security, communications, investigative services, criminal interdiction, community education, aviation operations, and more.