TDLR: Motorists must slow down or move over for tow trucks, emergency vehicles stopped on the roadside

Drivers traveling for the July Fourth holiday should remember that state law requires them to slow down or move over when tow trucks and other emergency vehicles – police, fire, EMS and highway response trucks – are stopped on the side of the road with their lights activated.

Texas traffic laws require drivers to leave the lane closest to the emergency vehicles stopped on the road (if the road has more than one lane traveling in the same direction) OR to slow down at least 20 miles per hour below the speed limit.

“Please help keep our highway heroes – plus you and your family – safe by obeying traffic laws that require drivers to move over or slow down when emergency vehicles are stopped on the side of the road,” said Mike Arismendez Jr., executive director of the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR). “Let’s all enjoy the holiday weekend and get home safe.”

TDLR regulates the towing industry as well as the Driver Education and Safety program.

Safety tips for driving this weekend:

• Slow down and pay attention to what you’re doing. If you get tired, pull over in a safe spot and walk around to re-energize.

• Don’t drink and drive, even a little bit.

• Designate a (sober) driver.

• Stay off the mobile phone – this includes texting. Designate a “co-pilot” to oversee the phone while you’re driving so you can concentrate on the task at hand.

• Stay weather-aware. We’re not expecting bad weather, but this is Texas and you never know.

• Leave plenty of time to get to your destination. Roadways are likely to be crowded. Drive friendly – the Texas way!

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