MSP, Olmsted Co. Sheriff, others spotlight Move Over Law on Wednesday

(ABC 6 News) – The Minnesota State Police, Olmsted County Sheriff and other law enforcement agencies are spotlighting the Ted Foss Move Over Law on Wednesday.

Minnesota’s Ted Foss Move Over Law was named in honor of State Patrol Trooper Ted Foss who was killed in 2000 by a passing vehicle during a traffic stop on the shoulder of I-90 in Winona County.

To increase awareness and keep Minnesota roadways safe, August 31 is Ted Foss Move Over Enforcement and Education Day in support of the Toward Zero Deaths traffic safety program.

The Minnesota Department of Public Safety Office of Traffic Safety coordinates the one-day enforcement campaign.

Here’s a breakdown of the Ted Foss Move Over Law:

  • On a road with two or more lanes going the same direction, drivers must move over one full lane from stopped emergency vehicles that have their flashing lights activated.
  • The law covers ambulance, fire, maintenance and construction vehicles, as well as tow trucks.
  • In situations where it’s not safe to move over (like heavy traffic), drivers must slow down.

Failing to take these actions could leave drivers paying a fine of more than $100.

Minnesota State Troopers made 1,956 traffic stops of drivers violating the Move Over Law in 2021.