Troopers are well aware of the risks they face every day, but that doesn’t mean encountering dangerous situations is any easier. Each time they leave their office, and by office, we mean their patrol car, and step onto the freeway, it is a concern.

You’ve probably heard about it, or may have even seen it. A trooper is making a routine traffic stop, and a vehicle speeds by too close for comfort. Troopers put themselves a doors length away from danger every shift.


On average one Washington State Patrol trooper is injured and two patrol vehicles are damaged every month from driver’s not slowing down or moving over. Just last year, troopers made contact with 4,175 drivers for the “Move Over” violation.

According to RCW 46.61.212, vehicles approaching an emergency zone should proceed with due caution, slow down, and if safe move over, or change lanes. Not doing so can run you a $214 citation that cannot be waived or reduced.

We’re asking that you please help them get home safely by simply moving over and/or slowing down.

The Washington State Patrol will run an emphasis from Wednesday, October 18, 2017 to Friday, October 20, 2017 looking for those violating the “Move Over” law. At the end of the day, we want people to be aware, cautious, and make first responders work space less dangerous.