LANSING, Mich. (Michigan News Source) – The Michigan State Police (MSP) are sounding the alarm after two more patrol vehicles were struck last week, bringing the total to seven since the start of the year. Despite laws requiring drivers to slow down and move over for emergency vehicles, some motorists are still failing to follow the rules – putting troopers’ lives at risk.

Wrecks on the roadside.

On January 27th, a patrol car was hit in Wexford County while assisting a vehicle that slid off the road. Fortunately, the trooper inside was unharmed. Just two days later, in Saginaw County, a suspected drunk driver crashed into another MSP vehicle, causing minor injuries to a trooper and multiple motorists.

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These kinds of incidents aren’t just dangerous – they can be deadly. Over the years, seven MSP officers have been killed while working on the side of the road. Every crash is a reminder of the risks law enforcement faces when assisting stranded drivers or responding to emergencies.

Move over: it’s the law.

Michigan’s Move Over law requires drivers to either switch lanes or slow down by at least 10 mph below the speed limit when passing an emergency vehicle with flashing lights. The law applies to police, fire, ambulance, and road service vehicles. If moving over isn’t possible, drivers must at least slow down and pass with caution. Ignoring this law doesn’t just put lives in danger – it can lead to hefty fines and legal trouble.

A preventable problem.

In a press release about the latest incidents, MSP is pleading for motorists to “Drive Sober and Move Over” with MSP Director Col. James F. Grady II urging drivers to take the law seriously.

“The shoulder of the road is a dangerous place for anyone,” said Grady. “When you see an emergency vehicle on the side of the road with emergency lights activated, please slow down and move over. That one act can save countless lives. Driving is a privilege with significant responsibilities. Those responsibilities include ensuring the safety of yourself, your passengers and others on the road. Motorists need to understand the consequences of their driving behavior and the impact it has on their fellow motorists.”