Drivers in Arizona often see flashing lights on the side of the road—police cars, ambulances, fire trucks, or tow trucks helping someone in trouble. When you see those lights, it’s more than just a signal to be careful. Arizona has a specific law about what drivers must do in that situation. It’s called the Move Over Law, and knowing how it works can help keep people safe—and keep you from getting a ticket.
What Is Arizona’s Move Over Law?
Arizona passed the Move Over Law in 2005 to protect emergency responders and roadside workers. The law requires drivers to change lanes or slow down when approaching a stopped emergency vehicle, tow truck, or maintenance vehicle with flashing lights on the side of the road.
If you’re on a road with two or more lanes going the same direction, you should move over one lane away from the stopped vehicle if it’s safe to do so. If you can’t move over safely, the law says you must slow down and proceed with caution.
If you’re on a two-lane road, the rule still applies—slow down and drive carefully when passing emergency or service vehicles with flashing lights.
This law covers more than just police cars and ambulances. It also applies to:
- Fire trucks
- Tow trucks
- Road maintenance vehicles
- Utility service vehicles
- Any other vehicle using flashing or warning lights while stopped on the roadside
Why the Move Over Law Matters
It might seem like a simple rule, but it’s there for a serious reason. Emergency responders and roadside workers face real danger when helping people near traffic. According to reports and safety campaigns, many accidents happen because drivers don’t slow down or move over.
The law was partly inspired by a tragic incident in 1996, when a paramedic was killed by a passing car while assisting at an accident scene. That case helped push states like Arizona to create laws that protect people working near moving traffic.
When drivers ignore the Move Over Law, it puts lives at risk. Imagine being a firefighter, police officer, or tow truck driver standing just feet away from cars speeding by. A small mistake by one driver can lead to serious injuries—or worse.
What Should You Do When You See Flashing Lights?
The law is pretty simple to follow, but here’s a quick reminder of what to do when you see a stopped vehicle with flashing lights:
1. Check the Road:
If you’re on a multi-lane road, look to see if you can safely switch lanes away from the stopped vehicle.
2. Change Lanes:
If it’s safe, move over at least one lane.
3. Slow Down:
If you can’t change lanes, reduce your speed and drive cautiously. Pay close attention to people or equipment near the road.
4. Stop for Moving Emergency Vehicles:
If an emergency vehicle with flashing lights is coming toward you or behind you with its siren on, pull over to the right side of the road and stop until it passes.
What Happens If You Don’t Follow the Law?
Not following the Move Over Law can lead to fines and points on your license. Even worse, it could cause a serious crash. Arizona takes this law seriously because it saves lives.
You don’t have to wait to see a police car or ambulance to follow the law. Any vehicle with flashing lights—like tow trucks and utility vehicles—counts. These workers are doing their jobs and deserve a safe space too.
Common Misunderstandings
Some drivers think the law only applies to police or ambulances. That’s not true. It includes all vehicles that are working on the side of the road and using flashing lights.
Others think they don’t need to move over if traffic is light. But the law applies no matter how many cars are around. If you see lights, you should move over or slow down. It’s about giving space and protecting people.
Real-World Example: Maricopa County Roads
In busy places like Maricopa County, there are lots of highway shoulders and service vehicles helping with breakdowns and crashes. First responders say that many drivers don’t slow down or move over, especially during rush hour. That’s when the risk of serious accidents increases.
For example, on a four-lane highway in Phoenix, if a tow truck is helping someone on the side of the road, drivers in the right lane need to change lanes to the left. If there’s no room, they need to slow down well below the speed limit as they pass.
Ambulance drivers in Arizona are even allowed to go up to 10 miles per hour over the speed limit when heading to a scene. That means other drivers need to be aware and ready to make room—fast.
Why This Law Helps Everyone
The Move Over Law isn’t just about keeping emergency workers safe. It also protects drivers, passengers, and people who are stranded. If your car ever breaks down, you’ll want others to slow down or move over when you’re stuck on the shoulder.
When drivers follow the law, fewer people get hurt. It also keeps traffic moving more smoothly and reduces the chance of secondary crashes caused by surprise slowdowns or swerving.
Have Questions or Been in a Roadside Accident?
If you or someone you love has been injured on the side of the road—whether you were a driver, passenger, or roadside worker—you may have legal options. CLS Law helps people in Phoenix and throughout Arizona who are dealing with serious injuries, insurance claims, or questions about their rights after an accident.
Call CLS Law at (855) 257-9467 if you need help understanding your rights or want to speak with an attorney about what happened. Our team will go over the facts with you and explain what can be done next.