Senate committee advances substitute to expand 'move-over' rule to distressed vehicles

Senator Wilson urged the Senate Transportation Committee to adopt a substitute to Senate Bill 16 that would extend the state's "slow down and move over" requirement to include vehicles in distress.

"This substitute bill clarifies that an arrest or conviction for failing to slow down or move over for a vehicle in distress does not constitute a criminal record and the person who is arrested or convicted does not have to report the penalty to any inquiries contained in an application for employment, licensure or other right or privilege or in the person's appearance as a witness," Senator Wilson said during sponsor testimony.

Wilson told the committee the measure is a reintroduction of prior legislation and said data from the American Automobile Association shows a concerning rise in crashes and fatalities involving distressed vehicles. He also cited research from Ohio State University describing public confusion about when drivers should slow down or move over and said ODOT signage has begun to reflect the message "slow down and move over." He emphasized the bill does not increase penalties beyond those already in law for failing to move over but would make the rule explicitly apply to distressed vehicles.

Chairman Patton and Vice Chair Schaffer offered personal context supporting the safety goal of the bill. Patton noted practical difficulties for motorists on highways and thanked the sponsor for bringing the bill forward. Vice Chair Schaffer said he has reservations about adding required human intervention on highways but described a recent crash he experienced and said he supports improvements that enhance safety.

The committee approved a substitute amendment by roll call and the sub-bill was adopted. The measure will proceed in the committee process.