Georgia’s Move Over Law is designed to protect law enforcement officers, emergency responders, and others working on or near roadways. While its purpose is to enhance safety, violating the law can lead to significant penalties, including fines and points on your driving record. This blog explores the history of Georgia’s Move Over Law, the consequences of breaking it, and how hiring a skilled traffic lawyer can help minimize its impact on your driving record.
What Is Georgia’s Move Over Law?
Georgia’s Move Over Law, codified in O.C.G.A. § 40-6-16, requires drivers to take precautions when approaching stationary vehicles with flashing lights. Specifically:
- Move Over: If you’re driving on a multi-lane roadway and it’s safe to do so, you must move over one lane away from the stopped vehicle.
- Slow Down: If moving over isn’t possible, reduce your speed to below the posted limit and be prepared to stop if necessary.
This law applies to a wide range of vehicles, including law enforcement, fire trucks, ambulances, tow trucks, and utility service vehicles displaying flashing lights.
History and Background
Georgia’s Move Over Law was enacted in 2003 in response to the rising number of injuries and fatalities among first responders and workers on highways. The law was designed to reduce the risk of accidents caused by speeding or inattentive drivers passing too closely to stopped vehicles.
Over the years, the law has expanded to include tow trucks and utility vehicles, reflecting the state’s commitment to safeguarding all personnel working near moving traffic. Public awareness campaigns continue to emphasize the importance of moving over to prevent tragic incidents.
Penalties for Violating Georgia’s Move Over Law
Getting caught violating the Move Over Law can lead to serious consequences, including:
- Fines: Offenders can face fines up to $500, depending on the circumstances and county.
- Points on Your License: A violation adds 3 points to your driving record.
- Insurance Impact: Points on your record can lead to higher insurance premiums, costing you hundreds or even thousands of dollars over time.
For repeat offenders, the penalties can escalate, with additional fines, higher points, and even potential license suspension.
How a Move Over Law Violation Affects Your Driving Record
The points system in Georgia is strict, and accumulating too many points can result in:
- License Suspension: If you reach 15 points within a 24-month period, your license will be suspended.
- Increased Insurance Costs: Insurance providers view points as a sign of risky driving behavior, which often leads to significant premium hikes.
- Employment Issues: For commercial drivers, a single violation can jeopardize job opportunities or lead to disqualification from certain roles.
Minimizing the Impact of a Move Over Law Violation
If you’ve been ticketed for violating the Move Over Law, taking immediate action can make a difference. Hiring a traffic lawyer is the best way to protect your driving record and reduce penalties. Here’s how they can help:
- Challenging the Evidence: A lawyer can examine the specifics of your case, such as whether you had enough space to safely move over or if road conditions made compliance impossible.
- Negotiating Reduced Charges: Attorneys can often negotiate with prosecutors to reduce the charge to a non-point offense, sparing your record.
- Avoiding Court Appearances: A traffic lawyer can handle all court proceedings on your behalf, saving you time and stress.
- Preventing Insurance Increases: By minimizing or eliminating points, a lawyer helps you avoid the long-term financial impact of higher premiums.
Why Choose The Ticket Clinic?
The Ticket Clinic is a trusted name in traffic law, with over 35 years of experience helping drivers fight tickets and protect their records. Here’s why they’re the top choice for Georgia drivers:
- Proven Success: The Ticket Clinic has a track record of getting tickets dismissed or reduced, keeping clients on the road with clean records.
- Expert Representation: Their team specializes in Georgia traffic laws and knows how to navigate the legal system effectively.
- Convenience: From handling paperwork to representing you in court, The Ticket Clinic makes the process hassle-free.
- Cost-Effective Solutions: Their affordable services can save you from the long-term costs of fines, points, and insurance hikes.
Protect Your Driving Record Today
Georgia’s Move Over Law is essential for roadway safety, but a single violation can lead to lasting consequences for your driving record and wallet. If you’ve been ticketed, don’t face the system alone.
Contact The Ticket Clinic today to fight your ticket and minimize its impact on your record. With their expertise, you can move past this challenge and keep your driving future secure.
