Remember to move over

Niagara County Sheriff James R. Voutour reminds everyone of the "Move Over" law that took effect Jan. 1.

The law requires motorists to move over or slow down when approaching a parked authorized emergency vehicle with emergency lights flashing. This legislation honors the memory of Trooper Robert Ambrose and Deputy Glenn Searles, who lost their lives while serving the public.

Ambrose was burned alive inside his vehicle when his patrol car was rear-ended by a sports utility vehicle traveling more than 80 mph. Searles died from injuries he suffered when assisting a stranded motorist; a second car struck him, pinning him against his patrol vehicle.

On Jan. 1, the "Mover Over" law was expanded to cover hazard vehicles, such as tow trucks, help trucks, highway maintenance trucks and any other vehicle being used in the construction or maintenance of roadways that has an amber light. When it is not possible to move over or there is only one lane, drivers must slow down.