Massachusetts Move-Over Law

What Massachusetts requires

Massachusetts still keeps it narrow. Move over or slow down for stopped emergency, highway maintenance, and tow vehicles running lights; a broken-down car is not covered yet. Slow to a safe speed and change lanes when you can. The fine tops out at $100 (M.G.L. c. 89 § 7C). A Senate-passed bill would add utility and disabled vehicles, but it is not law yet.

Who you move over for, and the fallback

• Move over for: Stationary fire apparatus, police vehicles, ambulances, disaster vehicles, highway maintenance vehicles, and recovery/tow vehicles displaying flashing lights. Disabled cars and utility vehicles are not covered under the current law.
• If you can't move over: Slow to a reasonable and safe speed. On a road with four or more lanes (two or more your way), change to a lane away from the vehicle when practicable; otherwise just reduce speed and pass with caution.
• S2653, 'An Act updating the Move Over Law,' passed the Senate on Oct 16, 2025 to add utility vehicles and any disabled vehicle with hazards, with fines climbing to $250/$500/$1,000. As of July 2026 it is still awaiting House action, so it is not law yet. Several 2026 outlets reported it early as effective Jan 1, 2026; the codified statute still shows the old law.

What a violation costs

Up to $100. The current law has no added penalty for causing injury or death.

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