Christmas and New Year’s drivers urged to move over or slow down for tow trucks and other emergency vehicles
AUSTIN – As they travel Texas roadways during the Christmas and New Year’s holidays, motorists are urged to slow down or move over for stopped emergency vehicles including tow trucks, police cars and fire trucks.
Texas law requires drivers to slow down at least 20 miles per hour under the posted speed limit or, if able, to change lanes when they’re passing a first responder stopped on the road.
Large numbers of travelers are expected on Texas roads, which means that more breakdowns and traffic stops are likely as well. Drivers should pay attention to what’s happening around them and prepare to react quickly.
“Our tow truck licensees work hard every day to help people who are stranded on the side of the road. And, like everyone else, they are anxious to return home safely each night,” said Brian E. Francis, executive director for the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR). “Please slow down or move over when you see emergency vehicles stopped on the side of the road. It’s the safe thing to do and it’s the law. Let’s make the holiday memorable for positive reasons and not because someone was killed or injured.”
TDLR regulates tow trucks as well as driver education and driving safety courses.
About TDLR
TDLR provides regulatory oversight for a broad range of occupations, businesses, facilities, and equipment in Texas. The agency protects the health and safety of Texans by ensuring they are served by qualified, licensed professionals. Inspections of individuals, businesses, and equipment are done on a regular basis to safeguard the public. Currently, the agency regulates 40 business and occupational licensing programs with more than 1,000,000 licensees across the state.
Visit TDLR’s website for more information and resources. You can search the TDLR licensee database, and also find past violations in which a final order was issued against companies or individuals. TDLR’s Customer Service line is available anytime between 7 a.m. until 6 p.m., Monday through Friday, at 1-800-803-9202. TDLR representatives are fluent in English, Spanish and Vietnamese.
