Slow Down or Change Lanes

SB 193 requires drivers nearing stopped emergency vehicles-with lights activated -to either slow down or change lanes. The law states a driver must either vacate the lane closest to the stopped emergency vehicle if the road has multiple lanes traveling in the same direction or slow down 20 miles per hour below the speed limit. (If the speed limit is below 25 mph the driver must slow down to 5 mph.)
Emergency vehicles include police, emergency medical service and fire vehicles. A violation is punishable by a maximum fine of $200. If the violation results in property damage, the maximum fine increases to $500. If the violation results in bodily injury, the offense is enhanced to a Class B misdemeanor.
Although, the law was passed in the last regular session of the Texas Legislature and went into effect Sept. 1, 2003, many officers were not enforcing this law.  Since the time the law went into effect many officers and other emergency vehicles have been struck while assisting other drivers.  The state of Texas will be enforcing this law. 

Just be courteous and pull into the next lane or slow down.  We all realize that slowing down 20 miles under the posted speed in some areas will slow traffic dramatically and cause a backup but what is 5-10 minutes on your drive compared to someones life?