South Dakota Expands ‘Move Over’ Law

Starting July 1, South Dakota drivers must take extra precautions on highways as the state’s expanded “Move Over” law takes effect. The new law broadens protections beyond emergency responders, now requiring drivers to move over or slow down for any vehicle with flashing amber, yellow, or blue warning lights stopped on the shoulder.

This includes tow trucks, utility crews, highway maintenance teams, and Department of Transportation vehicles.

“These are real people—moms, dads, sons, and daughters—working on the roadside,” said Colonel Casey Collins of the South Dakota Highway Patrol.

What to Do: -- Multi-lane roads: Move to the farthest lane away if safe. -- Two-lane roads: Slow down at least 300 feet in advance and reduce speed by 20 mph below the limit—or to 5 mph if the limit is 20 mph or less.

Failing to comply is a Class 2 misdemeanor ($270 fine). If a crash occurs, it becomes a Class 1 misdemeanor with harsher penalties.

“Flashing lights mean slow down, move over, and give space,” Collins said. Source: https://www.mykxlg.com