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What must you do when passing a stopped emergency vehicle in California?

A flatbed tow truck with flashing amber lights is stopped on the right shoulder of a multilane road while a blue car changes into the next lane to the left.

You approach a tow truck on the shoulder with flashing amber lights. What should you do?

Answer choices

The answer

Move over and slow down. Change lanes away from the vehicle when it is safe to do so, and if you cannot, reduce your speed.

The handbook says drivers must move over and slow down for emergency and road work vehicles, including stationary emergency or tow vehicles with flashing amber lights and stopped road work vehicles.

A Caltrans page on the Move Over law describes the same rule: change into an available lane that is not directly next to the vehicle if safe, and if not, slow to a speed that fits road, weather and traffic conditions.

Exceptions

  • Caltrans says the requirement does not apply if an officer is directing traffic, and that a protective barrier between the road and the vehicle generally removes it, though you should still use due caution.
  • The Caltrans page gives no fine amount and no statute number, so none is stated here.

Why this rule matters for safety

People working beside traffic are exposed to passing vehicles. A lane of separation and lower speed protect them.

Official sources

Rules checked against these sources on . Laws change. Confirm with the California agency before you rely on this for a legal matter.

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