Your vehicle breaking down mid-journey can be a real inconvenience. It can also be dangerous, as breakdowns can leave you prone to getting hit by another vehicle.
Maryland’s ‘Move Over Law’ is designed to reduce the risk for stranded motorists and their passengers, as well as those attending roadside emergencies. It obligates motorists to move over when approaching stationary vehicles that are displaying warning signs. Those signs could include hazard lights, cones, traffic flares or caution signs.
What if it is not possible to move over?
Sometimes, traffic (or the road itself) makes moving over impossible. When that occurs, drivers should slow their vehicles to a “suitable” speed. What that speed is will depend on the specific circumstances and might be up for debate if a collision were to occur.
The Maryland Highway Safety Office recommends that, whenever possible, drivers who are experiencing mechanical issues pull off the road altogether to get themselves out of danger, since staying close to the flow of traffic puts you at the mercy of others. They also recommend calling for assistance as soon as possible. Calling 911 will alert the authorities to the issue so that they can respond and help the driver off the road.
Why would a motorist hit a disabled vehicle?
A lot of motorists are distracted. You could have your hazard lights on and warning signs and cones out, but they might still miss seeing you.
Another possibility is that a driver may try to undertake another vehicle, or pass on the left, and inadvertently end up hitting the disabled vehicle that is now in their path. That may happen, for example, if a driver tries to pass a truck illegally, in frustration.
If someone runs into you while you’re disabled at the side of the road, it might seem obvious that they were in the wrong. That does not mean getting compensation will be easy. Insurers often contest even the clearest of claims or attempt to pay less than they should. Having someone with the necessary legal experience to defend your rights can help.