What does the "move over" law in Iowa require drivers to do?

The "move over" law in Iowa is designed to protect emergency personnel working on or near the roadway. It requires drivers to either move to a different lane away from the emergency vehicle if they can do so safely, or to slow down significantly if they cannot change lanes. This law applies to a wide range of emergency vehicles, including police cars, ambulances, fire trucks, and any vehicle displaying flashing lights.

Moving over or slowing down helps create a safer environment for both the emergency responders and the drivers on the road. It aims to minimize the risk of accidents when vehicles are stopped for emergencies. This is crucial for maintaining safety, as emergency personnel often have to work closely to the roadside, and additional traffic can pose significant hazards.

Options that include accelerating past emergency vehicles, parking alongside them to assist, or ignoring them do not align with the intention of the "move over" law, as these actions could lead to dangerous situations and do not contribute to the safety of emergency responders or other motorists.