KRGV.com

AUSTIN - The Texas Department of Public Safety is reminding drivers that tow trucks are now part of the Move Over/Slow Down law. The law requires motorists to move over or slow down to 20 miles below the speed limit when certain vehicles are stopped on the side of the road with emergency lights on.

"This law is about providing extra protection for those individuals on the side of the road doing their jobs, as well as the people on the roadside with them," said DPS Director Steven McCraw.

During the 2011 Legislative session, tow trucks were added to the existing law, which already applied to police, fire, and EMS vehicles. The Texas Department of Transportation will activate electronic signs this week, which will read, "If Tow Truck Stopped Ahead, Move Over or Slow Down, It's The Law."

DPS issued more than 17,000 warning and citations last year for violation of the Move Over/Slow Down law and another 6,000 through the first five months of this year.

Violation of this law could result in fines up to $200. The punishment is more severe if there is property damage, and jail time is possible if someone is injured.