Move over reminder for Whitman County drivers

On Friday, Sept. 27, the Whitman County Sheriff's Office shared a state law reminder on social media reminding those in the county about moving over for emergency vehicles.

In the post it shows that cars driving towards an emergency vehicle, must move over into the other lane at least 200 feet before they pass the emergency vehicle and continues to 200 feet passed the stopped vehicle. If there is no additional lane to change to it is recommended for drivers to slow down 10 mph under the posted speed limit.

This law doesn't just apply towards police, ambulance and fire trucks, other vehicles providing roadside assistance, stationary or slow-moving highway construction or maintenance vehicles, solid waste vehicle or utility service vehicle that are making use of warning lights are also included.

According to RCW 46.61.212, a person found to be in violation of speed restrictions in an emergency or work zone must be assessed a monetary penalty equal to twice the penalty assessed. This penalty may not be waived, reduced or suspended.

The penalty for not moving or slowing down is $214.

In 2018, according to the Washington State Patrol, 4,764 drivers were stopped for not moving over.

Since 2016, in Washington, there have been 104 patrol cars hit on the side of the road, injuring 27.

The social media post mentions that everyday law enforcement officers and emergency workers put their lives on the line to save ours. Even a routine traffic stop has become a risky business.

"We did have a close call a couple years back when one of our cars got sideswiped while on a traffic stop on SR 270," said Sheriff Brett Meyers. "Luckily the deputy was inside the vehicle at the time and no one was hurt."

Sheriff Meyers said overall this hasn't been a big problem in the county.