California DMV Permit Test (Class C)Rules of the Road and Right-of-WayMedium
You are driving on a two-lane highway and encounter a maintenance vehicle ahead with flashing amber lights. Which of the following actions is required by the 'Move Over' Law?
- AHonk your horn to alert the maintenance crew of your presence.
- BChange lanes if safe to do so, or slow down if changing lanes is not possible.
- CMaintain your speed and pass the vehicle as quickly as possible.
- DStop immediately behind the maintenance vehicle until it moves.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. Change lanes if safe to do so, or slow down if changing lanes is not possible.
California's 'Move Over' Law requires drivers to move over a lane if it's safe to do so when approaching a stationary emergency vehicle or roadside assistance vehicle with flashing lights. If changing lanes is not possible, you must slow down.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Honking is generally not required and could startle workers; the focus is on creating space or reducing speed.
- C. Maintaining speed and passing quickly is unsafe and violates the 'Move Over' Law.
- D. Stopping behind the vehicle is not the primary requirement and could create a hazard if traffic behind you does not stop.
Move Over Law
California law requiring drivers to move over a lane or slow down when approaching stationary emergency or roadside assistance vehicles with flashing lights.
- Applies to emergency, tow, and Caltrans vehicles.
- Change lanes if safe, otherwise slow down.
- Protects roadside workers.
Memory trick: See the lights, shift with might, or slow your flight!