What Is the Fine for Violating North Dakota’s Move Over Law?

This is one of those things we see fairly often in Bismarck, Mandan, and all around North Dakota: emergency vehicles with their flashing lights on, coming up behind cars that don't move over.

Some people might not know the rule; others might freeze in panic and keep going; and some might not care.

Here's the thing: When an emergency vehicle is headed your way, you are supposed to pull over as quickly and safely as possible.

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ND's Move Over Law

It's frustrating to watch an ambulance rush down the road while several cars just stay in the way and make no attempt to pull over. I mean, really think about it; what if that ambulance was trying to get to you or a loved one?

As we start the new year, I thought it might be helpful to remind everyone that North Dakota does, in fact, have a move-over law.

According to ND.gov, here's what it states.

"If an authorized emergency vehicle is parked or stopped on the interstate system or on a multi-lane highway outside the limits of the city, and an authorized emergency vehicle is displaying a flashing, revolving, or rotating amber, blue, white, or red light; the driver of an approaching vehicle shall proceed with caution and yield the right of way by moving to a lane that is not adjacent to the authorized emergency vehicle if the move may be made with due regard to safety and traffic conditions or if not, the driver shall proceed with due caution, reduce the speed of the vehicle and maintain a safe speed for the road conditions."

Fines

Almost every state has a "Move Over" law, and some fines are steep. What is the fine for failing to yield to emergency vehicles in North Dakota? According to ND.gov, it's only $50.00 --pretty low if you ask me, but it will also result in two points being assessed to your driver's license.