As of Sept. 1, 2025, Texas drivers will be required to move over a lane or slow down when passing Animal Control vehicles and officers, which are now included under the state’s ‘Move Over, Slow Down’ law.
This law requires drivers to take precautions, such as moving to a non-adjacent lane or slow to 20 mph below the posted speed limit, when passing stationary animal control vehicles on the road to ensure the officers’ safety while they are working.
The purpose of the law is to provide a safe buffer zone for these roadside workers and to reduce the risk of accidents, even if the roadside vehicle doesn’t have its lights on.
The change to the bill was a direct response to a fatal crash on Oct. 13, 2022, involving Levelland Animals Control officers Crystal Goforth and Jon Corder.
“Tragically, both officers lose their lives due to their vehicle being struck on the side of the road while responding to a call,” said Rep. Ken King, who filed HB 2041 to amend the law.
Drivers must be alert to amber or flashing lights and take action to protect roadside workers, with penalties for violations increasing in severity, including potential jail time for causing serious injury.
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