The National Traffic Incident Management Coalition estimates that more than 200 roadside workers lose their lives in the line of duty each year. Roadside workers include tow truck operators, highway maintenance crews, first responders, and utility and municipal workers.

Since 2007, AAA has advocated for stronger laws to protect workers from injury or death when working at the side of busy roadways. These “Slow Down and Move Over” laws exist in all 50 states, and they require drivers to proceed with caution by slowing down and, if possible, moving over a lane when approaching a vehicle with its emergency lights illuminated.

While these safety laws are in effect in all 50 states, public awareness remains low, and U.S. drivers still routinely fail to reduce their driving speed or switch lanes to protect roadside workers.

According to a national survey sponsored by the National Safety Commission, 71 percent of U.S. drivers are unaware of “Slow Down and Move Over” laws.

To protect roadside workers and improve highway safety, AAA offers these precautionary tips:

• Always remain alert. Avoid distractions and focus on the task of driving.
  
• Watch for situations where emergency vehicles, tow trucks, or utility service vehicles are stopped on the side of the road.
  
• When approaching an emergency vehicle displaying flashing lights on the side of a two-lane roadway, slow down to a safe speed and approach with caution unless otherwise directed by an emergency worker. Some states recommend slowing to a speed that is 10-20 mph less than the posted speed limit.
  
• On multilane roadways, slow down when you see an emergency vehicle using flashing lights at the roadside and, if possible, move over into an adjacent lane. Some states recommend slowing to a speed that is 10-20 mph less than the posted speed limit.