Albuquerque Police Crack Down on Move-Over Law Violations

67 citations issued in 2-hour enforcement operation after recent officer death on I-40

Apr. 1, 2026 at 10:18pm

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The Bernalillo County Sheriff's Office conducted a traffic enforcement operation in Albuquerque, issuing 67 citations in just 2 hours to drivers who failed to move over for first responders, tow trucks, or vehicles pulled over on the side of the road - a violation of the state's move-over law. The crackdown comes after the recent death of BCSO Sergeant Michael Schlattman, who was struck and killed by a semi-truck during a traffic stop on I-40.

Why it matters

The move-over law is intended to protect law enforcement, emergency workers, and stranded motorists from being struck by passing vehicles. Enforcement of this law has become a priority for the Bernalillo County Sheriff's Office after the tragic death of one of their own officers, highlighting the dangers first responders face on the roads.

The details

During the 2-hour enforcement operation, the Bernalillo County Sheriff's Office issued 67 citations to drivers who failed to move over as required by state law. The crackdown was prompted by the recent death of BCSO Sergeant Michael Schlattman, who was struck and killed by a semi-truck while conducting a traffic stop on I-40 in the Carnuel area. So far, no arrests have been made in connection with Sergeant Schlattman's death.

  • The Bernalillo County Sheriff's Office conducted the traffic enforcement operation recently.
  • Sergeant Michael Schlattman was killed on I-40 in the Carnuel area.

The players

Bernalillo County Sheriff's Office

The law enforcement agency that conducted the traffic enforcement operation and lost Sergeant Michael Schlattman in the line of duty.

Sergeant Michael Schlattman

A Bernalillo County Sheriff's Office sergeant who was struck and killed by a semi-truck while conducting a traffic stop on I-40.

Sheriff John Allen

The sheriff of Bernalillo County who says he plans to have more operations like this one in the future to crack down on people who don't move over for first responders.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to endanger the lives of our first responders on the roads.”

— Sheriff John Allen, Sheriff, Bernalillo County Sheriff's Office

What’s next

The Bernalillo County Sheriff's Office plans to conduct more traffic enforcement operations targeting move-over law violations in the future.

The takeaway

This crackdown on move-over law violations underscores the critical importance of drivers being alert and responsible when passing first responders, tow trucks, and disabled vehicles on the side of the road. Enforcing these laws can help prevent tragic incidents like the death of Sergeant Schlattman and protect those who put their lives on the line to serve their community.