Drivers urged to move over or slow down for tow trucks and other emergency vehicles

May 19, 2022

Memorial Day weekend will bring increased traffic on Texas roads:

Drivers urged to move over or slow down for tow trucks and other emergency vehicles

AUSTIN – As they travel Texas roadways during the Memorial Day weekend, 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 with their emergency lights activated.

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.

“Tow trucks are emergency vehicles, and drivers should slow down or change lanes when tow trucks are stopped on the side of the road – just like drivers should slow down or change lanes when they see police cars or ambulances or fire trucks on the side of the road,” said Mike Arismendez, Jr., executive director for the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR). “Please do your part to make sure that everyone has the chance to return home safely each night.”

TDLR licenses tow operators and tow companies in Texas, as well as driver education and driving safety courses.