A recent poll revealed that as many as one (1) in four (4) Texas drivers are unaware that Texas law requires drivers to move over or slow down when passing emergency vehicles or utility vehicles. Specifically, Texas Transportation Code § 545.157 requires drivers to vacate the lane closest to a stopped emergency vehicle or utility vehicle. In the alternative, if drivers are on a single-lane roadway, § 545.157 requires drivers to slow to 20 miles per hour below the speed limit when passing an emergency vehicle or utility vehicle.
The law was initially passed in 2003 but was recently changed to include utility vehicles in addition to emergency vehicles. The change in the law comes after numerous fatalities involving utility workers on Texas roadsides. The law imposes steep penalties on those who would violate the same. Violators can be charged with a Class B misdemeanor, punishable by up to 180 days in jail, a fine of up to $2,000.00, or both.
If you or a loved one has been injured or killed by a driver violating § 545.157, call the law firm of Abraham Watkins today. It is imperative that you find a law firm to manage your claim as soon as possible following an injury or death of a family member. Further, it is important to find a skilled law firm with experience handling these cases to ensure that the responsible parties are held fully accountable.
The law firm of Abraham, Watkins, Nichols, Agosto, Aziz, & Stogner is the longest-standing personal injury firm in Texas, and our attorneys are standing by to assist with your claim. Call us today at 713-222-7211 or 1-800-594-4884 for your free consultation.