Wisconsin State Patrol boosts enforcement and education of Move Over Law​

National Move Over Day, October 17​

Release date: October 12, 2026​​

The Wisconsin State Patrol is stepping up efforts to remind motorists of the importance of moving over or slowing down when approaching first responders or stranded motorists stopped along the road. All this week, Wisconsin State Patrol troopers in every region of the state have an extra emphasis on enforcing Wisconsin’s Move Over Law. Troopers are also taking extra steps to educate motorists by handing out informational flyers to motorists who have been stopped for violating the law. The increased enforcement and education efforts will lead into National Move Over Day on October 17, 2026. 

“Stopping alongside the road can be very dangerous, especially when drivers are distracted, speeding or driving recklessly,” Wisconsin State Patrol Superintendent Tim Carnahan said. “Our officers will be working to educate motorists about the law and remind them that moving over or slowing down can protect the lives of emergency responders and stranded motorists.” 

Over the past five years, 128 people in Wisconsin were injured roadside while inside or near a stopped vehicle and six​ were killed. Wisconsin’s Move Over Law was enacted in 2001 to prevent these tragedies.

The Move Over Law requires drivers traveling on a road with two or more lanes in the same direction to move out of the lane closest to stopped law enforcement vehicles, ambulances, fire trucks, tow trucks, utility or highway maintenance vehicles with their warning lights activated. If unable to safely move over, or along single lane roadways, vehicle operators must slow down. 2025 Wisconsin Act 54​ adds the same protections for disabled vehicles stopped along the road with hazard lights on, emergency devices or flares placed near the vehicle, or one or more persons attending to the vehicle and visible to motorists. Violators could be cited with a noncriminal moving violation and a fine of up to $300. If the violation results in a crash or injury, the penalties could be much more significant.

Motorists have an important role in traffic safety. Wisconsin State Patrol urges motorists to take the following actions to protect themselves and others on the road.

Motorists:

• Remain alert and scan the road ahead for stopped vehicles and traffic incidents.
• Never drive distracted. Put the phone down and focus on the road.
• Provide a safe zone for disabled vehicles and first responders on the side of the road. Move over as you approach and pass them. If you can’t safely move over or are on a one-lane road, you must slow down.

Stranded or stopped motorists:

• Get out of travel lanes. Pull as far over on the shoulder as safely possible to create more distance between your vehicle and traffic.
• Turn your hazard lights on to alert other drivers.
• If you can safely make it to the next exit or stopping point, do so.
• Call local law enforcement for assistance if needed. In an emergency, call 911.
• Stay in your vehicle if you can safely do so.
• If getting out of your vehicle, watch the oncoming traffic for a good time to exit, and remain close to your vehicle. Try to avoid turning your back to traffic whenever possible.​

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