Important Information On The Expansion Of Wisconsin’s Move Over Law

In 2001, the Move Over Law was enacted in Wisconsin. It 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 drivers are unable to safely move over, or if they're driving on a single-lane roadway, all vehicle operators must slow down.

The goal of a Move Over Law is to save lives and prevent injuries for roadside workers, first responders, but recently the state of Wisconsin expanded its law to help protect even more people.

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Move Over Law Expanded In Wisconsin

Recently, the Wisconsin Department of Transportation celebrated the expansion of the state's Move Over Law. Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers officially signed Assembly Bill 409, now 2025 Wisconsin Act 54, into law, giving drivers added protection when stopped on the side of the road.

Now, drivers in Wisconsin are required to move over or slow down when approaching any disabled vehicle on the side of the road, not just when approaching vehicles of first responders and roadside workers.

Basically, 2025 Wisconsin Act 54 adds the same protections for all 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.

WisDOT stresses that stopping alongside the road can be dangerous. Over the past five years, 145 people in Wisconsin were injured while inside or near a stopped vehicle, and 5 were killed. In addition, 73 emergency responders were struck by a vehicle while working on the side of the road.

Wisconsin State Patrol Superintendent Tim Carnahan says law enforcement will be watching for violations of this new law and for opportunities to educate drivers on why it's so important.

"Giving stranded motorists space is not just a courtesy anymore; it’s now the law, and it’s important that everyone on the road is aware of this impactful change," Carnahan said.

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Violators could be cited with a noncriminal moving violation and a fine of up to $300. However, tf the violation results in a crash or injuries, the penalties can be much more severe.

An Important Reminder For All Motorists In Wisconsin

WisDOT reminds motorists that they play an important role in keeping each other safe on the road, and they offer the following tips:

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 oncoming 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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