FCPD Traffic Division Announces Move Over Enforcement Initiative

Posted on by

Fairfax County, VA – Each year, traffic stops and roadside incidents place first responders, roadway workers, and even stranded motorists just feet away from moving traffic. A recent crash involving a Fairfax County police officer assigned to our DWI Safe December Initiative is a reminder of how dangerous these situations can be, even during routine enforcement.

During a traffic stop, an officer’s police cruiser, which was utilizing its full emergency lights, was struck from behind by a passing vehicle. The impact pushed the cruiser into the vehicle that had been stopped in front of it. The officer sustained minor injuries.

To reinforce the importance of driver awareness and compliance with Virginia’s Move Over law, the Fairfax County Police Department’s Traffic Division will be conducting a focused enforcement initiative on Saturday night, December 20, along the Route 28 corridor. This roadway has historically seen high speeds and aggressive driving, making it a critical area for traffic safety enforcement.

What Is the Move Over Law?

Virginia’s Move Over law requires drivers approaching a stationary vehicle with flashing blue, red, amber, or white lights, or activated hazard lights, to take action to protect those on the roadside. This includes emergency responders, roadside service vehicles, and disabled vehicles. The law was expanded in 2023 to clarify that any vehicle stopped on the shoulder with hazard lights, flares, or caution signs is covered, not just traditional emergency vehicles.

Under Virginia law, drivers must:

  • Move over to a lane not adjacent to the stopped vehicle if it is safe to do so, or
  • Slow down and proceed with caution if changing lanes is not possible.

If you cannot safely move over, slowing down and exercising due caution is required. Failing to do either puts lives at risk and may result in enforcement action.

The Move Over law applies to:

  • Law enforcement officers
  • Fire and rescue personnel
  • Tow truck operators
  • Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) personnel
  • Other emergency or incident response workers
  • Any vehicle stopped on the roadside with activated hazard or warning lights

Why This Matters Now

Winter driving conditions increase risk for both motorists and responders. Shorter daylight hours, slick road surfaces, black ice, rain, and fluctuating temperatures reduce visibility and reaction time, making it even more important to slow down and stay alert. Every traffic stop and roadside incident puts officers and roadway workers at risk when drivers fail to move over or slow down.

Enforcement on December 20

On the night of December 20, officers assigned to the Safe December Initiative will be conducting Move Over enforcement along Route 28. The focus will be on education and accountability, ensuring drivers understand their responsibilities when approaching emergency, service, or disabled vehicles stopped on the roadway.

This initiative is not just about citations, it is about preventing crashes, injuries, and loss of life.

What Drivers Can Do

  • Stay alert and scan ahead for flashing lights or vehicles stopped on the roadside
  • Move over early when it is safe to do so
  • Slow down if lane changes are not possible
  • Increase following distance in wet or icy conditions
  • Remember that responders, roadway workers, and even stranded motorists are someone’s family too

Moving over or slowing down takes only a moment, but it can make the difference between someone going home safely or not.

Interested in joining our team? Visit our website to learn more about joining FCPD.

Register your camera with Connect Fairfax County to help FCPD solve crimes, locate missing people, and support investigations.

For more ways to stay connected, please read our blog and follow us on X, Facebook, and Instagram at @FairfaxCountyPD.