Resolution Establishes November 20th as 'Move Over Law Day' to Honor Roadside Responders

You know that moment when you see flashing lights on the side of the highway—a cop, an ambulance, or maybe a tow truck—and you know you need to move over a lane or at least slow way down? This resolution is all about making sure everyone remembers why that rule exists. It officially establishes November 20th every year as National Traffic Incident Management Responder Day.

The core purpose here is two-fold. First, it’s about honoring the people who work those dangerous roadside scenes: law enforcement, fire and rescue, EMS, and crucially, tow truck operators and transportation workers. Second, it’s a big, national push to promote awareness and adherence to those state “move over” laws that are already on the books everywhere. It’s a commemorative resolution, meaning it doesn't create new laws or fines; it just recognizes and supports existing safety goals.

The Real-World Risk on the Shoulder

This isn't just about good manners; it’s about life and death. The resolution highlights a sobering finding: 46 traffic incident management responders were killed in 2024 alone due to roadside collisions. These are people trying to help a stranded driver, clear a wreck, or save a life, and they are getting hit by distracted or speeding drivers. Think about your commute: when you’re stuck in traffic, you’re annoyed, but these folks are literally standing a few feet from 70 mph traffic, doing their job.

By designating a specific day, the resolution aims to get organizations to ramp up public education on the severity of this issue. It specifically urges national, state, and regional incident management groups to spread the word about existing state move over laws and the real dangers of ignoring them. For you, the driver, it’s a reminder that those laws aren't just suggestions; they are minimum safety requirements when you pass an emergency scene.

Who Benefits from the Awareness Push?

The beneficiaries here are straightforward. First, the folks working the road—the tow truck driver helping you change a tire in the rain, the state trooper writing up a crash report, the EMT loading a patient. Increased public awareness means a safer work environment for them. Second, it benefits every single driver. When people follow the rules, traffic incidents are cleared faster, reducing secondary crashes and getting everyone back on the road sooner. This resolution is simple, clear, and carries virtually no downside, as it just encourages better behavior and recognizes a group of essential, high-risk workers.