Close calls prompt states to urge move-over for roadside workers

Officials and safety advocates in Tasmania, Wisconsin, Kentucky and Nevada are urging drivers to slow down and move over when approaching roadside workers, emergency responders or disabled vehicles. The advice reflects state laws requiring motorists to change lanes when safe and reduce speed when they cannot, with protections extending to road crews and tow-truck operators as well as first responders. Roadside workers and police describe close calls that show how passing traffic can put people working just feet from the roadway at serious risk. Tasmania’s government is also backing a long-running campaign to encourage extra care around roadworks, while Wisconsin officials emphasize giving roadside and trail crews space and following safety rules.