Georgia Lawmakers Demand Tougher Penalties for 'Move Over Law' Violations

Following the death of a Hahira officer, local law enforcement officials call for steeper consequences to protect first responders on the road.

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

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After a Hahira police officer was struck and killed during a routine traffic stop, local law enforcement in Georgia are pushing for tougher penalties for drivers who violate the state's 'Move Over Law.' The current $500 fine and 3 license points are seen as inadequate by officials like Captain Angel Bradford of the Albany Police Department, who argue that the penalties do not properly reflect 'the value of a human life.' Lawmakers have pointed to other states with more aggressive approaches, such as Virginia's fines up to $2,500 and requirements to slow down to 20 mph below the speed limit when passing emergency vehicles.

Why it matters

The 'Move Over Law' is intended to protect first responders, highway workers, and other emergency personnel who are vulnerable when working on the side of the road. However, violations of the law continue to put these public servants at risk, with 46 emergency responders killed by vehicles in 2024 alone nationwide. Strengthening the penalties could help deter dangerous driving behavior and save lives.

The details

Georgia's 'Move Over Law' requires drivers to change lanes when approaching emergency vehicles, highway support vehicles, or service vehicles with flashing lights. If changing lanes is not possible, drivers must slow down. Current violations come with a $500 fine and 3 license points, which law enforcement officials say is not enough to stop the dangerous behavior. Captain Angel Bradford of the Albany Police Department argued that 'How do you put a dollar sign on a human life?' and said the penalties need to include harsher consequences like jail time and license suspension.

  • In 2024, a national AAA report documented 46 emergency responders killed by vehicles while working roadside incidents.
  • Following the recent death of a Hahira police officer struck during a traffic stop, local law enforcement have renewed calls for tougher 'Move Over Law' penalties.

The players

Captain Angel Bradford

An Albany Police Department official who oversees special operations including traffic, and has personally experienced the dangers of the 'Move Over Law' violations.

Georgia State Patrol

The state law enforcement agency that provided guidance to drivers on how to properly respond when approaching emergency vehicles with flashing lights.

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What they’re saying

“How do you put a dollar sign on a human life? And certainly $500 doesn't even come close.”

— Captain Angel Bradford, Albany Police Department (WALB)

“When you approach emergency vehicles with flashing lights, change lanes to create distance between your vehicle and theirs. If you cannot safely change lanes, reduce your speed below the posted limit and prepare to stop.”

— Georgia State Patrol (WALB)

What’s next

Some lawmakers in Georgia have called for stricter penalties and stronger enforcement of the 'Move Over Law', pointing to other states like Virginia that have taken more aggressive approaches with fines up to $2,500 and requirements to slow down significantly when passing emergency vehicles.

The takeaway

This tragic incident highlights the urgent need to strengthen protections for first responders and highway workers in Georgia, whose lives are put at risk by drivers who fail to follow the 'Move Over Law.' Increasing the penalties could help deter dangerous driving behavior and save lives, while also sending a clear message about the value placed on public safety personnel.