3 days ago
Updated 'Move Over Law' goes into effect on South Dakota roads on July 1
Jun. 27—PIERRE — A newly updated 'Move Over' law goes into effect across South Dakota on July 1, 2025, expanding protections for authorized vehicles occupying the shoulder of the highway with amber, yellow, or blue warning lights.
The expanded law now requires drivers to take action when approaching any vehicle displaying flashing amber, yellow, or blue lights — not just law enforcement or emergency responders. This includes tow trucks, highway maintenance vehicles, utility crews, and Department of Transportation equipment using proper hazard lighting while on the shoulder.
"These are real people — moms, dads, sons, and daughters — working hard or handling emergencies at the roadside," said South Dakota Highway Patrol Superintendent Colonel Casey Collins in a news release.
The law requires drivers to do the following:
* On multi-lane highways, move into the lane farthest away from the stopped vehicle, when it's safe to do so, and pass with caution.
* On two-lane roads, slow down at least 300 feet in advance, and reduce speed: to 20 mph below the posted limit, or to 5 mph if the speed limit is 20 mph or less.
Violations are a Class 2 misdemeanor, carrying a minimum fine of $270. If a crash occurs because of a violation, the offense becomes a Class 1 misdemeanor, which comes with steeper penalties.
"The bottom line is this: If you see flashing lights, slow down, move over, and give extra space," Collins said. "Whether it's a trooper conducting a stop, a worker fixing a guardrail, or a DOT vehicle on the shoulder, they all deserve to go home safely."
