PENNSYLVANIA, USA — Pennsylvania's new Move Over Law goes into effect Tuesday morning and will mean stricter penalties for those in violation.
Drivers must move over to the next lane or slow down significantly if an emergency vehicle is stopped on the shoulder.
Police vehicles, fire trucks, and tow trucks are some vehicles drivers should look out for.
The law has been around for years, but authorities say new additions are being made.
"First offense now is $500, second is $1,000, third and subsequent offense is $2,000, plus a third and subsequent offense can result in a 90-day license suspension, so yes, quite heftier fines in regard to that," said Trooper David Peters
If you can't move over, you'll now be required to slow down to 20 miles under the posted speed limit. Police also recommend putting on your flashers to alert drivers behind you that you're slowing down.
Trooper Peters says observation by police at emergency scenes will be key to enforcing the law.
Newswatch 16 asked drivers if they realized the new law goes into effect and what they think about the increased fines.
"I did not. I do it out of practice anyway, but I think it's a great idea," said Carol Turcotte, from Cresco, who drives the interstates often. "It's important to travel safely and watch out for those who are pulled over or broken down. I think it has to be enforced, or people will not abide by the rules," said Turcotte.
Eric Siegel from New York State passes through Pennsylvania often.
"In New York, there were big signs when the law first started off, like you should move over, but like, if someone is pulled over, why wouldn't you move over? They have to get out of their cars and walk into the lane. They could get hit by a car or something. I think this is a good idea," said Siegel.
There are also additional fines of up to $10,000 for violators who injure or kill an emergency service responder or a person in or near a disabled vehicle.