One year ago today, April 27, a new law went into effect to add protective measures to those assisting motorists and stopped vehicles at the roadside.

According to PennDOT, Pennsylvania’s Move Over Law (Act 105 of 2020) requires motorists approaching an emergency response area who are unable to safely merge into a lane further away from the response area to slow to no more than 20 mph less than the posted speed limit.

An emergency response area is defined as “where an emergency vehicle has its lights flashing, or where road crews or emergency responders have lighted flares, posted signs or try to warn travelers.”

“This law has been a welcomed step toward protecting tow operators, medical personnel and other responders across Pennsylvania,” Theresa Podguski, director of legislative affairs, AAA East Central said. “Unfortunately, too many Pennsylvanians are unaware of the important aspects of this law and the fines that can be incurred when you violate it.”

Pennsylvania’s Move Over Law created a new point system and strengthened fines and punishments for those who don’t comply.

It imposes fines at $500 for first-time offenders, $1,000 for second-time offenders and $2,000 for third-time offenders.

For third and subsequent offenses, it requires a 90-day license suspension and sets a $10,000 fine for violators who kill or injure an emergency responder or person in a disabled vehicle.

Additional details about Act 105 of 2020, including stipulations, penalties, definitions and suggestions can be found at https://www.penndot.pa.gov/TravelInPA/Safety/TrafficSafetyAndDriverTopics/Pages/Move-Over,-Slow-Down.aspx.

AAA East Central advises those who are stranded at the roadside to:

• Get to a safe place. Safety should be everyone’s number one priority on the roads, whether they are driving or stranded.

• Contact authorities. Police can advise you on what steps to take in your particular situation.

• Alert other motorists. Make sure your vehicle is visible using at least two of the following: emergency flashers, flares, warning triangles or caution signs.

• Carry AAA Roadside Assistance. AAA members know they’re covered 24/7 everywhere they travel. Roadside technicians can provide fuel, change tires, boost a battery and if need be, tow a vehicle.

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Editor’s note: AAA East Central is a not-for-profit association with 72 local offices in Kentucky, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania and West Virginia serving 2.7 million members.