Have you been ticketed for failing to “Move Over” for an emergency or stopped vehicle in Rockland County?
New York State Police predict that the number of Move Over traffic violations is set to nearly double from last year.
In 2024, there were more than 14,700 tickets for Move Over Law violations issued across the state. As of September 1, 2025, more than 11,600 motorists in New York have received a ticket for violating the Move Over law, a number that New York State Police have said will continue to increase.
The Move Over law has been in effect since 2010, but was expanded in 2023 to require drivers to change lanes for any vehicle that is stopped on the side of the road, not just emergency vehicles.
New York State Police report that drivers should always look ahead and limit distractions while driving.
In Clarkstown, New York, the state’s “Move Over” Law requires drivers to either change lanes or slow down when approaching a vehicle that is stopped on the side of the road.
What drivers must do:
CHECK TRAFFIC: Before approaching the vehicle, check your surroundings to see if it is safe to move over.
SLOW DOWN: If changing lanes is not possible or unsafe when approaching a vehicle that is stopped on the shoulder or side of the road, you must reduce your speed.
MOVE OVER: On highways with multiple lanes such as the Palisades Parkway or New York State Thruway, you must move to a non-adjacent lane when it is safe to do so. This creates an empty lane as a safety buffer.
WHO AND WHAT THE LAW PROTECTS
Emergency responders: Police, firefighters, and paramedics.
Roadside workers: Construction workers, tow truck operators, and maintenance crews.
All disabled vehicles: The law has expanded to cover any vehicle stopped on the roadway with flashing lights, regardless of its purpose.
As a reminder, a Move Over violation will result in fees and points on your license. If you have been charged with a violation of VTL 1144, or failure to “Move Over” for emergency vehicles or a stopped vehicle, contact Ciganek Law Office, trusted traffic ticket attorneys in Clarkstown Justice Court, Ramapo Justice Court, Orangetown Justice Court, Chestnut Ridge Justice Court, and all other justice courts in Rockland County. We can help you avoid points on your license and possible license suspension.
