NY Volunteer Fire, Ambulance Workers Now Benefit from "Move Over Law"

Governor Cuomo signed legislation Thursday expanding New York State's "Move-Over" Law to volunteer firefighters and ambulance workers.

It's a good thing, as volunteer firefighters and ambulance crews quite often arrive at the scene of emergencies before police, fire or EMS, John Munson, deputy chief in the Croton-on-Hudson Fire Department, points out.

"This new legislation is very beneficial to both volunteer fire and EMS workers," Munson said. "It is equally important for motorists to give them room just as they should be for emergency vehicles to help ensure the safety of all volunteers as well as those we are helping."

The measure requires drivers to slow down and move over a lane when approaching a vehicle with flashing blue or green lights that are operated by volunteer firefighters or ambulance workers involved in a roadside emergency.

Previously, New York's “Move-Over” law only applied to drivers approaching stopped police, emergency or hazard vehicles with flashing red and white or amber lights.

"Our first responders risk their lives day in and day out, often putting their own safety and wellbeing in jeopardy, in order to protect their communities and their fellow New Yorkers,” Cuomo said in his announcement. “This new law will help ensure that first responders are protected from avoidable hazards when responding to a roadside emergency.”

The move for "Move-Over" laws began in earnest in 2000 after increasing numbers of injuries and fatalities among emergency workers on roadsides. The US Department of Transportation and Federal Highway Administration issued recommendations for improved standards and protections.