The Home Page Network

Today Wellsboro Homepage has another weekly briefing from Chief Jim Bodine. This week we are talking about the Steer Clear Law. Many are familiar with the term “move over,” or the Move Over Law, but in Pennsylvania it is referred to as the Steer Clear Law. The Steer Clear Law requires drivers to move over or slow down whey they encounter an emergency scene, traffic stop or disabled vehicle.

When a motorist comes upon an emergency area, they are to pull off to the farthest right of the road and STOP! Chief Bodine stresses the need for the motorist to come to a complete stop. This allows the emergency vehicle to drive out around the motorist, without fear of the motorist being hit. An emergency area is described as any area where an emergency vehicle is present i.e. car accident, house fire, etc.

Another case in which a motorist may be confused, is when an emergency vehicle is following behind them, or is approaching them. In both cases, the motorist is to pull of to the side of the road and stop. This again allows the emergency vehicle to have full access to the road, to then arrive at the scene as soon as possible.

Most importantly, it is important to remember that this law will help prevent injuries and save lives, but only if drivers follow the law and use common sense.

To learn more about the Steer Clear Law, please visit: www.justdrivepa.org/Resources/Steer-Clear-Law.pdf