'Move over or slow down' law enforced by DPS

LA FERIA, Texas (ValleyCentral) — The Texas Department of Public Safety is pushing drivers to honor a traffic law that, if not followed, can be dangerous and even fatal.

The move over or slow down law has been around since 2003. This law requires people to go 20 miles under the speed limit or move over lanes when an emergency vehicle with flashing lights is pulled over.

Karen Treto, a DPS Trooper, said this is especially important when people are working on the side of the road.

"Whoever gets behind the wheel of a vehicle has the responsibility to be a defensive driver, to make these roadways a little safer," said Treto. "Which is why we are out here trying to avoid those traffic crashes."

During our ride along with Trooper Treto, she kept an eye on FM 506 in La Feria.

Treto said avoiding this law could also have bigger consequences than just a ticket. People could face jail time and a fine of up to $4,000.

Since 2017, Texas DPS has reported 142 crashes involving stationary DPS patrol vehicles: resulting in 46 trooper injuries and costing the lives of two. This does not include other crashes, deaths or injuries that may have happened not involving a patrol vehicle.

Treto says not everyone is aware of this law.

"Being aware, while you are driving, not distracted, to avoid traffic crashes, any fatalities," said Treto. "Because at the end of the day, we all want to go home to our families."