Arkansas officials have launched a new safety campaign aimed at raising awareness of the dangers faced by people working and stopping along the state’s roadways. Called “Just Move Over,” the initiative focuses on educating the public about the Arkansas Move Over Law.
The program was announced Tuesday, Sept. 8, during a press event on the front steps of the Arkansas State Capitol. Arkansas House Speaker Brian Evans was joined by representatives from the Arkansas Department of Transportation (ARDOT), Arkansas Highway Police, and Arkansas State Police.
The Move Over Law requires drivers to change lanes, when feasible, to create a safety buffer around authorized vehicles stopped on or beside the road. This law applies to emergency responders, ARDOT crews, tow truck operators, and others working roadside.
ARDOT Director Jared Wiley emphasized the importance of extending this courtesy to all individuals, even those without official vehicles or warning lights. “We should move over for someone who is not equipped with flashing lights while tending to vehicle issues on the side of the road,” Wiley said. “These individuals are someone’s husband, cousin or mother and are likely not fully aware of the real danger they are in when parked on the roadside.”
The “Just Move Over” campaign, supported by the federal Highway Safety Improvement Program, will include public service announcements, graphics, and other educational materials to spread the message.
Speaker Evans highlighted the risks faced by roadside workers in his remarks. “In my district, we’ve had a tremendous amount of road construction in recent years, so I see firsthand just how many men and women spend their days working only a few feet away from moving traffic,” Evans said. “I’ve also heard far too many stories of accidents and close calls involving law enforcement, highway crews, first responders, and tow truck operators.”
Through a combination of outreach and educational tools, officials hope the campaign will prevent hazardous situations and save lives.
More details about the Move Over Law and the “Just Move Over” campaign are available through ARDOT and associated law enforcement agencies.