California Move-Over Law

What California requires

Move over a lane for anything stopped with lights or warning gear out. As of January 1, 2026, that means any vehicle with hazards on, cones, flares, or triangles, not just police, tow trucks, and Caltrans (Cal. Veh. Code 21809). If you can't move over, slow to a safe, reasonable speed. The fine tops out at $50, one of the cheapest tickets around.

Who you move over for, and the fallback

• Move over for: Stationary authorized emergency vehicles with emergency lights, tow trucks flashing amber, marked highway maintenance vehicles flashing amber, and any other stationary vehicle displaying flashing hazard lights or another warning device including cones, flares, or retroreflective devices.
• If you can't move over: Change lanes away from the stopped vehicle if it's safe and practicable. If a lane change isn't feasible, slow to a reasonable and prudent speed for the weather, road, and traffic. Duty doesn't apply if the vehicle is off the highway or behind a physical barrier.
• Expanded effective January 1, 2026 (Stats. 2025, Ch. 58, AB 390) to cover any stationary vehicle displaying hazard lights or a warning device, not just responders, tow trucks, and maintenance vehicles.

What a violation costs

Infraction with a maximum fine of $50 (Cal. Veh. Code 21809). One of the lowest move-over penalties in the country.

More for California