Confused by ‘Slow Down, Move Over’ Laws? New AAA survey finds most drivers misunderstand the law
AAA breaks down what Californians need to know to avoid dangerous gaps in compliance with the law.
WALNUT CREEK, Calif. (October 28, 2025) – A new survey by the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety (AAAFTS) reveals a critical misunderstanding between drivers and Slow Down, Move Over Laws, with only 64% of drivers abiding by these laws when approaching a vehicle stopped at the roadside.
Most respondents to the AAAFTS survey have heard of Slow Down, Move Over laws, but many were confused at what the law entails and were far less likely to move over or slow down for tow trucks or stranded vehicles than for police, revealing a widespread misconception about who the laws protect.
This means police officers, firefighters, EMTs, utility workers, and tow truck operators face extreme danger when stopped on the side of the road. Last year, 46 emergency responders died while simply trying to help stranded motorists, according to the Emergency Responders Safety Institute.
“Working along the highway is a dangerous job. But tow truck operators and first responders go out and help people every day despite the risk,” said Todd Burger, Chief Automotive Officer for AAA Mountain West Group. “Every state, including the District of Columbia, has a version of a Slow Down, Move Over Law. It is a core traffic safety priority of AAA to address the confusion surrounding these critical laws and get emergency crews home safely.”
Key findings:
- Tow truck operators face the greatest risk. Only 58% of drivers, witnessed in surveillance footage, slowed down or moved over when a tow truck was stopped at the roadside. Compared to 66% who slowed down or moved over for police vehicles.
- Intentions don’t match actions. Most drivers say they comply with SDMO laws, but roadside video shows otherwise—especially when it comes to reducing speed.
- Weak enforcement reduces deterrence. Drivers perceive little risk of being ticketed, and penalties vary widely—from $30 in Florida to $2,500 in Virginia.
AAA breaks down California’s Slow Down, Move Over Law
Earlier this year, AAA helped secure an expansion to the Slow Down Move Over Law, which Governor Newsom signed in July. California Statute 21809 now states drivers must change lanes or slow down for all vehicles stopped at the roadside with hazard or emergency lights on. Violators can be fined up to $50. The full text of the law can be found on the State of California website.
AAA is encouraging policymakers, enforcement agencies, and safety partners to strengthen and align their approaches to Slow Down, Move Over laws—making them clearer, more consistent, and easier for drivers to follow.
“Working with the public and agencies to raise awareness of Slow Down, Move Over laws is a core mission for AAA,” Burger said. “But there’s no replacement for putting yourself in that emergency worker’s shoes and understanding that moving over is a courtesy.”
How drivers can help improve road safety
- Always remain alert. Avoid distractions and focus on driving.
- Scan the road ahead. Watch for situations where emergency vehicles, tow trucks, utility service vehicles or stranded motorists are stopped on the side of the road. This gives you time to change lanes and adjust speed accordingly.
- Don’t tailgate. Do not follow tractor-trailers or other large trucks too closely. If a truck moves into a left lane, don’t speed around the right side. The truck is changing lanes for a reason; be prepared to change lanes yourself.
- Recognize and respond. When approaching an emergency vehicle displaying flashing lights on the side of a two-lane roadway, slow down to a safe speed (in some states that means 20 mph less than the posted speed limit) and proceed with caution unless directed otherwise by an emergency worker on the scene. If it’s a multilane road, move into an adjacent lane that’s not immediately next to the emergency vehicle, if possible.
- Be courteous of other motorists. Allow other vehicles to merge into your lane when necessary.
About AAA Mountain West Group
AAA Mountain West Group is a membership and full-service leisure travel organization, proudly serving over 6.8 million Members across Alaska, Arizona, Nevada, Northern California, Montana, and Utah. AAA delivers unmatched expertise and value through roadside assistance and electric vehicle (EV) resources, along with comprehensive auto repair, travel, insurance, financial, and home security services. Powered by 5,300 dedicated Team Members, AAA is on a mission to revolutionize solutions that help our Members.