A new study from the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety (AAAFTS) has found that confusion about the Slow Down, Move Over (SDMO) laws and inconsistent enforcement are leaving responders at continued risk.
Last year, 46 emergency responders were struck and killed in the US while assisting others on the roadside including police officers, firefighters, EMTs, and tow truck operators.
Now the organization has made recommendations to ensure drivers understand these laws require and why they matter.
“For more than 20 years, AAA has championed ‘Slow Down, Move Over’ laws in every state, yet we are still losing far too many roadside heroes in the line of duty,” said Gene Boehm, President and CEO of AAA National.
“It’s clear that awareness alone isn’t enough. Drivers need to understand what these laws require and why they matter.”
The research found:
- Tow truck operators face the greatest risk. Only 58 per cent of drivers witnessed in surveillance footage slowed down or moved over when a tow truck was stopped at the roadside, compared to 66 per cent who slowed down or moved over for police vehicles.
- Most drivers say they comply with SDMO laws, but roadside video shows otherwise – especially when it comes to reducing speed.
- Weak enforcement reduces deterrence. Drivers perceive little risk of being ticketed, and penalties vary widely—from $30 in Florida to $2,500 in Virginia.
The AAA is encouraging policymakers, enforcement agencies, and safety partners to strengthen and align their approaches to “Slow Down, Move Over” laws – making them clearer, more consistent, and easier for drivers to follow.
Recommendations include:
- Clarify and align SDMO laws across states
- Raise public awareness through campaigns
- Increase enforcement visibility.
