In Duncan, South Carolina, understanding and adhering to the rules of the road are crucial for both novice and seasoned drivers alike.
One such rule, the move-over law, holds particular importance.
During an inquiry at a Duncan gas station, 7NEWS approached a South Carolina driver and a Maine driver to gauge their knowledge of the South Carolina move-over law.
Bernadi Lamont, a South Carolina driver, remarked, “If a car is pulled over on the side, then you must be respectful of that car and move over.”
John LoBosco, hailing from Maine, stated, “I think it’s when there is a police officer who has pulled somebody over, you have to go over to the next lane, not drive right next to it.”
According to South Carolina Highway Patrol Master Trooper Brandon Bolt, both drivers were generally correct.
“The move-over law pertains to emergency vehicles and emergency personnel,” explained Master Trooper Bolt. “The law requires you to significantly reduce your speed and move over if you’re able to do so.”
Emergency vehicles encompass ambulances, law enforcement vehicles, fire trucks, and wreckers, as per Master Trooper Bolt. Additionally, the law extends its coverage to workers assisting in debris removal from roadways.
“The minimum that’s required is reducing your speed significantly,” emphasized Master Trooper Bolt. “When I tell people significantly, think about you standing on the side of the road. What would make you feel safe?”
Enacted in 1996, the law aims to enhance safety on roadways.
Master Trooper Bolt, with 16 years of experience on the force, recounted several instances of close calls with inattentive drivers.
“I’ve actually been on a traffic stop where somebody’s mirror has brushed up against my backside, and you know, actually not strike me, but you could feel it come by you,” shared Trooper Bolt.
A recent close call unfolded just days ago involving a Spartanburg County Sheriff’s Deputy.
Reportedly, a deputy was endeavoring to slow traffic on I-85 near mile marker 60 when a driver nearly collided with him.
The sheriff’s office disclosed that, at the time, the deputy was adorned in a reflective vest, had his patrol lights activated, and was wielding a light-up traffic wand. The motorist was subsequently charged with reckless driving.
“When I come to work, I don’t think about getting shot at,” reflected Master Trooper Bolt. “I think about losing my life to someone who’s not paying attention.”