YAPHANK, NY — In a two-week initiative, 438 summonses were issued to drivers throughout the county who were violating the Move Over Law, Suffolk officials said.
Suffolk police patrol officers and Highway Patrol Bureau's Suffolk Intensified Traffic Enforcement team took part in the enforcement between Aug. 21 and Sept. 4.
The Move Over Law mandates motorists slow down and safely move over when approaching vehicles stopped along the side of the road. It applies to private vehicles, as well as those displaying red, white, blue, amber, or green lights, and includes law enforcement, fire trucks, ambulances, tow trucks,
construction, and maintenance vehicles.
County Executive Ed Romaine noted that "public safety is our top priority in Suffolk County."
"Through education and enforcement, the Move Over Campaign not only made our roads safer for motorists, but more importantly raised public awareness to avoid future tragedies and keep our first responders and construction workers safe while on the job," he said.
Police Commissioner Kevin Catalina said the initiative "went far beyond enforcing the law—it was about educating drivers on why the Move Over Law matters."
"Moving over is about safety and saving lives," he said. "We implore drivers to focus on the road, eliminate distractions, and help us make our roadways safer for everyone."
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