The Move Over Law helps protect law enforcement officers, first responders, roadside workers and every motorist stopped along the roadway.
While all 50 states have a version of this law, many drivers remain unaware of the specific requirements in North Dakota. Following this law isn't just about avoiding a ticket, it’s about preventing a tragedy.
North Dakota law states that when any vehicle is stopped on or near the roadway and displaying flashing, revolving or rotating lights (including hazard lights), drivers approaching the scene must:
- Move Over: Change into a lane not immediately adjacent to the stopped vehicle if it is safe and possible to do so.
- Slow Down: Reduce speed to a safe and reasonable level if a lane change is not possible due to traffic or weather conditions.
- Emergency Vehicles: Failure to yield to emergency vehicle or highway maintenance vehicle is a $50 fine and 2 points (39-10-26).
- Stationary Motor Vehicle: Failure to yield right of way to stationary motor vehicle with hazard lights is a $20 fine and 0 points (39-10-26.3).
- Enhanced Penalties: Fines may increase if the violation leads to a crash or endangers a maintenance or emergency worker.
Move Over, it’s the law. A few seconds of caution can save a life.
The requirement to move over or slow down is strictly enforced on:
- Interstate Highways: All multi-lane interstate systems.
- Multi-lane Highways: Any divided highway outside city limits (e.g., U.S. 83, U.S. 2, or U.S. 85).
In 2023, the law was expanded to include all motor vehicles displaying hazard lights, from a family with a flat tire to a utility crew.
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