Police Remind Residents of "Move Over Law" In Wake of Trooper's Tragic Death

In the wake of an accident Monday night in which a New Jersey state trooper was killed by a passing motorist while investigating an accident on 295, local police remind residents about the state’s “Move Over” law.

On Jan. 27, 2009, Gov. Jon S. Corzine signed into law a bill that requires drivers approaching stationary emergency vehicles, tow trucks and other highway safety vehicles displaying certain flashing lights to move over one lane or, if not safe to move over, then to slow down below the posted speed limit.

Fines for violating this law run from $100 to $500, and are determined by the municipal court in which the violator is charged.

“Working on the roadside is a dangerous and sometimes deadly job. That’s why the New Jersey Division of Highway Traffic Safety is asking motorists to Make the Move,” Gloucester Township Police said in a statement Tuesday afternoon. “What’s the Move? When you see flashing lights on the side of the road, SLOW DOWN, and if it’s safe, MOVE OVER – away from police, fire crews, paramedics and tow truck drivers. If you make the move, others will follow.”

Trooper Sean Cullen, 31, of Cinnaminson, died after he was struck by a passing driver while investigating an accident on 295 at milepost 23.4 in Deptford Township around 8:15 p.m. Monday night.

The 22-year-old woman who was driving the car immediately stopped and cooperated with police during their investigation. No charges had been filed against her as of Tuesday afternoon.