Since 2003, Kentucky has had laws requiring drivers to slow down and move over for first responders, highway crews, tow truck operators and other roadside workers.
Beginning July 15, and following the passage and codifying of Senate Bill 107 this past session, motorists now approaching any disabled vehicle displaying emergency flashers, flares or other type of warning signal will be required to:
a) move over a lane, away from the disabled vehicle, if safe to do so;
and/or b) reduce their speed if unable to change lanes or if on a roadway of fewer than four lanes
This expansion of Kentucky’s “Slow Down, Move Over” law is meant to encompass all vehicles and drivers in the Commonwealth.
According to AAA data analysis of facts obtained from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, more than 1,800 people were struck while outside of a disabled vehicle in the U.S. from 2017-2021.
In Kentucky alone, according to Kentucky State Police, there were 32 people killed in crashes between June 2019 and June 2024, involving individuals either leaving or approaching their vehicles.
Furthermore, in the same span, 16 people were killed in crashes while changing tires or performing other work on their vehicles.
Kentucky now joins 20-plus other states in extending these protections to civilian motorists with a disabled vehicle.
The new law came under the bipartisan leadership of the Governor’s office, alongside Rep. Mary Beth Imes, Rep. John Blanton and Sen. Jimmy Higdon.
Expansion of Kentucky’s existing Slow Down, Move Over law reduces confusion by requiring motorists to extend caution to anyone displaying flashing lights on or around a stationary vehicle stopped at the side of the road.
