MIFFLIN — Ohio’s Move Over Law applies to every roadway throughout the state.
It can be enforced by any law enforcement officer, including state highway patrol officers, local police and county sheriff’s deputies, according to the Ohio Department of Transportation.
Violating the law — which requires motorists to move over and slow down for any stationary vehicle with flashing lights along the side of the road — results in a misdemeanor charge and can cost up to double the usual fines for a first violation.
The law is applicable to vehicles with flashing lights of any color, including law enforcement officers, emergency responders, road construction, maintenance vehicles, utility crews and tow trucks.
But that doesn’t mean all drivers abide by the law — or even know it exists.
That’s why several community groups are combining to host an event Saturday centered around raising awareness of the law, what it means and why it’s important.
“We all know the safety of our roadway workers, our first responders, is vital,” said Ashley Williams, marketing coordinator at Auer Towing & Recovery. “This law is a big part of their safety, to protect them.”
The event is being co-hosted by Auer Towing & Recovery, Mifflin Community Volunteer Fire Department and Safety First Driving Academy.
It will take place at the village’s new fire station, 16 Maine St., from 2 to 6 p.m.
Williams said State Rep. Melanie Miller (R-Ashland) will be in attendance to speak about House Bill 132.
HB 132, also known as Philip Wigal’s Law, creates a tiered penalty structure for violating the Move Over Law, including enhanced penalties for repeat offenders and drivers who cause injury or death by not slowing down or moving over on the roadway for stationary vehicles with flashing lights, according to the Ohio House of Representatives.
Miller is a primary sponsor of HB 132, currently still in the Ohio Senate, along with State Rep. Meredith Craig (R-Smithville).
Ashland County Sheriff Kurt Schneider will also be a guest speaker.
“There is no ticket to get in. It is free and open to the public,” Williams said.
A hog roast fundraiser will coincide with the event for $15 per plate, free for ages 5 and under. Several free activities for kids will be offered, including a touch-a-truck. Several guest speakers are also scheduled to share their stories throughout the four-hour event.
Several auctions, including items from businesses both within and outside of Ashland County, will also be available for those who wish to participate.
“We want everyone to be able to go to work, provide for their families (and) come home safe,” Williams said. “Touting the importance of slowing down and moving over when you see those flashing lights is something that really matters to us — not just in our industry but to all of the people that we work alongside day to day.”
All proceeds raised during the event will benefit the American Traffic Safety Services Foundation, a nationwide nonprofit organization dedicated to roadway safety, honoring fallen workers, providing scholarships and delivering educational tools to help prevent future tragedies.
Indoor seating and handicap parking will both be available.
