National Move Over Day arrives as AAA urges New Jersey drivers to slow down
The law requires drivers to move over a lane if safe or reduce their speed when approaching vehicles on the shoulder
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Ahead of National Slow Down, Move Over Day on Saturday, AAA is pushing for greater driver awareness and stronger roadside safety measures across New Jersey to protect stranded motorists and emergency workers.
A new survey from the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety highlights a gap between drivers’ reported behavior and what traffic studies show. While more than 90% of drivers report moving over or slowing down for vehicles on the shoulder, real-world traffic studies show that only 64% comply.
The push comes amid sobering national and regional statistics. Between 2019 and 2023, more than 2,100 people were struck and killed nationwide while stranded or working on the roadside. In 2025 alone, AAA responded to more than 30 million roadside events near active traffic. Fifteen service providers were killed nationwide that year, including one in New Jersey.
“So many drivers know that slowing down and moving over is the right thing to do, but turning that awareness into action on the road remains a challenge,” said Robert Sinclair of AAA Northeast. “Too often, speeding, distraction and impairment contribute to crashes at the roadside.”
While 90% of drivers express support for move-over laws when the requirements are explained, awareness gaps remain. Survey data indicates that only 66% of drivers know state laws require special action when passing a stopped police cruiser.
In New Jersey, the Slow Down, Move Over law requires drivers to move over a lane if safe or reduce their speed when approaching emergency vehicles, tow trucks and disabled cars on the shoulder. Violations carry fines ranging from $100 to $500, along with a possible 90-day license suspension.
