AAA supports new CA bill “Slow Down, Move Over” that protects stranded drivers and roadside workers

CALIFORNIA – AAA held a press conference, June 17, for Assemblywoman Lori D. Wilson’s Senate Bill 390 “Slow Down, Move Over” that expands protections for stranded drivers and highway maintenance workers.

“Spoke at today’s AAA press conference to highlight my bill AB 390, which strengthens California’s Slow Down, Move Over law to protect all drivers, regardless of vehicle type. Roadside safety saves lives,” said Wilson in a Facebook post.

Wilson also thanked guest speaker Heather Haenes for sharing her experience as a crash survivor.

In 2007, while exchanging information after a rear-end collision, Haenes was struck by a car, resulting in injuries that required the amputation of both legs.

CA ranked second nationally for deaths involving people outside disabled vehicles

The Automobile Club of Southern California and AAA Northern California, sponsors of the bill, cite AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety (AAAFTS) data on deaths involving people outside disabled vehicles.

In 2021, 72 truck drivers, delivery workers, motorists and passengers were killed on California highways. Between 2013 and 2022, California ranked second nationally for such fatalities and led the nation in 2017, 2018, 2020 and 2021.

Slow down or change lanes for all stationary vehicles

Existing law requires drivers to slow down or change lanes when approaching a Caltrans displaying flashing lights.

Violating this law is an infraction with a fine up to $50.

The new law extends the requirement to all highway maintenance vehicles or any other stationary vehicles flashing hazard lights or another warning device, including cones, flares, or retroreflective devices.

Transportation committee approves measure

The Senate Transportation committee approved the bill, 13-0, on June 10 and sent it to the Appropriations committee for further consideration.