The Law

189.930  Right-of-way to emergency vehicles -- Blocking or following emergency vehicles -- Driving over unprotected hoses of fire department.

(1)     Upon the approach of an emergency vehicle equipped with, and operating, one (1) or more flashing, rotating, or oscillating red or blue lights, visible under normal conditions from a distance of five hundred (500) feet to the front of such vehicle; or the driver is given audible signal by siren, exhaust whistle, or bell, the driver of every other vehicle shall yield the right-of-way, immediately drive to a position parallel to, and as close as possible to, the edge or curb of the highway clear of any intersection, and stop and remain in such position until the emergency vehicle has passed, except when otherwise directed by a police officer or firefighter.

(2)     Upon the approach of any emergency vehicle, operated in conformity with the provisions of subsection (1) of this section, the operator of every vehicle shall immediately stop clear of any intersection and shall keep such position until the emergency vehicle has passed, unless directed otherwise by a police officer or firefighter.

(3)     No operator of any vehicle, unless he is on official business, shall follow any emergency vehicle being operated in conformity with the provisions of subsection (1) of this section closer than five hundred (500) feet, nor shall he drive into, or park the vehicle into, or park the vehicle within, the block where the vehicle has stopped in answer to an emergency call or alarm unless he is directed otherwise by a police officer or firefighter.

(4)     No vehicle, train, or other equipment shall be driven over any unprotected hose of a fire department when the hose is laid down on any street, private driveway, or track for use at any fire or fire alarm unless the fire department official in command consents that the hose be driven over.

(5)     Upon approaching a stationary emergency vehicle or public safety vehicle, when the emergency vehicle or public safety vehicle is giving a signal by displaying alternately flashing yellow, red, red and white, red and blue, or blue lights, a person who drives an approaching vehicle shall, while proceeding with due caution:

(a)     Yield  the  right-of-way  by  moving  to  a  lane  not  adjacent  to  that  of  the authorized emergency vehicle, if:

1.      The person is driving on a highway having at least four (4) lanes with not fewer than two (2) lanes proceeding in the same direction as the approaching vehicle; and

2.      If it is possible to make the lane change with due regard to safety and traffic conditions; or

(b)     Reduce the speed of the vehicle, maintaining a safe speed to road conditions, if changing lanes would be impossible or unsafe.

(6)        This section does not operate to relieve the person who drives an emergency vehicle from the duty to operate the vehicle with due regard for the safety of all persons using the highway.

 

A message from the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet: Move Over Kentucky, It’s the Law!

“Move Over” signs are up across the state to let travelers know that state law requires them to slow down and use caution when they see a law enforcement or emergency vehicle stopped alongside the road with its lights flashing. They must move over to the lane farthest away from the vehicle if they are on a four-lane road and can do so safely. Failure to do so can result in fines. By the end of the summer, 100 signs will be in place on interstates, parkways, and other major four-lane and multi-lane highways.

  In addition to the road signs, the Transportation Cabinet is implementing a public awareness campaign which includes radio and newspaper ads, posters and brochures touting the “Move Over” message. Also, police, firefighters, EMS and other public safety and emergency personnel will have the option to display “Move Over” decals on their vehicles.

 “Our vision is to create a safe transportation system for all Kentuckians,” said Marc Williams, Commissioner of Highways.  “That includes our men and women of law enforcement, emergency services and public safety.  These signs and other public awareness tools remind motorists to yield and use caution when they see emergency or public safety vehicles stopped on the side of the highway.”

 In accordance with state law (KRS 189.930), emergency vehicles include police, fire and rescue. Public safety vehicles include public utility repair vehicles; wreckers; state, county or municipal service vehicles and equipment; highway equipment which performs work that requires stopping and standing or moving at slow speeds within the traveled portions of highways; and vehicles which are escorting wide-load or slow-moving trailers or trucks.

  “These signs will play a vital role in protecting law enforcement and emergency service personnel throughout the state,” added Lieutenant Eric Walker, Commander of the Governor’s Highway Safety Program. “It’s something we owe to these dedicated professionals who provide a valuable public service.”

   “It’s imperative that motorists know how important it is to protect our officers on the highways serving the Commonwealth,” said Kentucky Motor Vehicle Enforcement Commissioner Greg Howard.  “Moving over one lane gives both the officer on the side of the highway the needed space for safety, while allowing us to do our job safely and effectively.”