TxDOT urges drivers to safeguard roadway responders during Crash Responder Safety Week

THE WOODLANDS, TX – Roadside workers, law enforcement and other first responders risk their lives every day, and drivers can help keep them safe by always moving over or slowing down.

To mark Crash Responder Safety Week (Nov. 17 - 21), TxDOT is sharing its “Be Safe. Drive Smart” campaign to call on all Texans to be kind, courteous and safe to protect roadway responders.

These individuals are often only inches away from heavy or fast-moving traffic, making them vulnerable to serious injury or death in the event of a crash. That risk to their lives is amplified when people speed or drive distracted.

Expansion of Move Over or Slow Down law

Texas law requires motorists to move over an entire lane or slow to 20 mph below the posted speed limit when approaching law enforcement, tow trucks, utility vehicles, municipal waste trucks, emergencyresponders and TxDOT vehicles with activated overhead lights on the side of the road.

Since Sept. 1, 2025, the law has been expanded to include vehicles driven by animal control officers and parking enforcement employees.

Tips for drivers:

• Be alert and pay attention when approaching roadside law enforcement, first responders, tow trucks, utility service vehicles and TxDOT vehicles with flashing lights on.
• When possible, move out of the lane closest to these vehicles.
• Slow down to 20 mph below the posted speed limit if safely switching lanes is not possible or the road doesn’t offer multiple lanes.
• Reduce speed to 5 mph on roadways with a posted speed limit of 25 mph or less.

Failure to follow the Move Over or Slow Down law can result in a fine of up to $1,250 for a first offense. Drivers who cause serious injuries may face jail time and a fine of up to $4,000.

The “Be Safe. Drive Smart” campaign is an important part of TxDOT’s Drive like a Texan: Kind. Courteous. Safe. initiative. Drive like a Texan is about embracing the pride, camaraderie, and responsibility of being a Texan on the road. By making thoughtful choices, we can all help keep each other safe. Learn more at DriveLikeATexan.com.