The WYDOT information sign between Green River and Rock Springs reminds drivers to move into the next lane when coming upon emergency or official vehicles at the side of the road. A state law mandating drivers to move over took effect July 1.
Motorists will not only have to move over for emergency responder vehicles, but official vehicles.
The new move over law, which went into effect July 1, requires motorists to move over for maintenance, construction and utility workers in addition to emergency responders like the Wyoming Highway Patrol, Stephanie Harsha, Wyoming Department of Transportation District 3 public relations specialist, said.
"Basically, it requires motorists to do what they currently do when encountering an emergency vehicle that is pulled over on the side of the road," Harsha said.
When a construction, maintenance or utility vehicle is stopped on a road with two or more lanes traveling the same direction, motorists must move to the farthest lane away from the stopped vehicle. On a two-lane road where speeds are 45 mph or greater, motorists must slow down to 20 mph below the posted speed limit. Motorists who fail to comply with the new law can be fined up to $235.
The bill, which was passed, was sponsored by the Joint Transportation, Highways and Military Affairs Interim Committee and is meant to prevent potential crashes that stem from travelers being too close to workers on the side of the road.
"Several WYDOT workers testified before the state legislature about close calls and crashes they have been involved in or have seen on their crews out on the highways," Harsha said. "It's an important step to help protect the safety of roadside workers."
As for the signs on Interstate 80 that say move over for emergency and official vehicles, Harsha explained any WYDOT vehicle, as well as any city, county or other agency vehicle, as well as utility company vehicles can be considered an official vehicle.
"Basically, anyone whose professional work causes them to be on the side of the highway," Harsha said. "However, it is highly recommended that motorists move over or slow down for any parked vehicle on the side of the road."
Those signs are meant to inform travelers of the new law. In District 3 alone, there are 34 signs on display.
"We are very thankful to the legislature for this new law," Harsha said.
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