How to Pull Over Safely on the Highway
A blown tire, a warning light, or a phone call. Sooner or later, most drivers need to pull over on the highway. Doing it wrong can be deadly. Knowing how to get off the road safely, and what Utah law requires of other drivers, can keep a routine stop from becoming a tragedy.
Signal early, move to the right shoulder as far from traffic as possible, and stop where you are visible, past a curve or hill, or better yet at an exit or rest area. Turn on your hazard lights, and if the highway is busy, it is often safest to stay buckled in your car. Utah’s Move Over law requires others to give stopped vehicles room.
How to pull over the right way
Signal and slow gradually
Turn on your signal early and ease toward the shoulder, no sudden moves.
Choose a visible spot
Get as far right as you can, past curves or hills so approaching drivers see you. An exit or rest area is safer than the shoulder.
Turn on hazard lights
Make yourself visible day or night, and use flares or triangles if you have them.
Stay safe while you wait
On a busy road, stay buckled inside. If you must exit, do so on the side away from traffic.
Utah’s Move Over law
Utah law requires drivers to slow down and, when it is safe, move over a lane for stopped emergency, maintenance, and other vehicles displaying warning lights. The law exists because roadside stops are among the most dangerous places to be. If everyone gives stopped vehicles room, far fewer people are hurt.
If you are hit while stopped
A driver who fails to slow or move over and strikes a properly stopped vehicle can be held responsible for the resulting injuries. If it happens to you, get to safety, call for help, document the scene, and seek medical care before dealing with insurers.