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The Law Title 29-A §2054... 9. Stationary vehicles. The operator of a vehicle passing a stationary authorized emergency vehicle using an emergency light or a stationary wrecker using its authorized lights, with due regard to the safety and traffic conditions, shall: A. Pass in a lane not adjacent to that of the authorized emergency vehicle or wrecker, if possible; or [2007, c. 348, §20 (AMD).] B. If passing in a nonadjacent lane is impossible or unsafe, pass the emergency vehicle or wrecker at a careful and prudent speed reasonable for passing the authorized emergency vehicle or wrecker safely. [2007, c. 348, §20 (AMD).]
Main State Police Urge Drivers to Move Over, Slow Down for Tow Trucks Every time a Trooper stops a motor vehicle or is at the scene of a motor vehicle crash there is a threat of being hit by a passing motorist. The danger exists not only on highways but every road in Maine. The number one killer of police officers is motor vehicle crashes. The chance of being seriously injured or killed by a passing motorist increases as speed and the volume of traffic increases. A law was passed in 2001 requiring motorists on Maine's roadways to slow down and/or pull over for a stopped emergency vehicle. Corporal Ron Brooks, who currently patrols the Maine Turnpike, initiated the 'Move Over Law' in Maine. Corporal Brooks recommended the concept for legislation and it was passed within months. An authorized emergency vehicle as stated in this statute is defined as; a law enforcement vehicle, a fire department vehicle, and ambulances. In September 2007, the law was modified to include wreckers who are at a scene as authorized emergency vehicles.
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