Slow down, mover over campaign

COLUMBIA, S.C. (WOLO)– Richland County first responders teamed up Tuesday morning (October 13) for the “Slow down, move over” campaign.

The nationwide public safety initiative promotes compliance with “move over” laws in all 50 states.

These laws require drivers to slow down and change lanes when approaching an emergency vehicle that’s stopped with flashing lights on or beside a roadway.

South Carolina’s “Move Over Law” requires drivers to slow down and change lanes when approaching a stopped, authorized vehicle with flashing lights, or to proceed with caution if a lane change is unsafe.

Failure to do so can result in a misdemeanor violation punishable by a fine of $300 to $500.

Officials say about 50 emergency responders are killed annually by vehicle strikes while responding to incidents on the road.