Is it ever OK in GA to ignore blue police lights? Here’s what the law says

In Georgia, if you see blue lights while driving, even if they aren’t for you, you have to give way to the vehicle.

According to Georgia Code, when a law-enforcement or other emergency vehicles is approaching, you must yield the right of way.

This is especially true if a police car is actively using lights and sirens and signaling for you to pull over. You must safely pull to the right and stop and follow this protocol whether you believe you are being pulled over or not.

Georgia’s Move Over Law

The Georgia Code, Title 40-6-16, also known as the “Move Over Law,” requires drivers to move one lane over or at least slow down, for stopped emergency vehicles on the shoulder displaying flashing lights.

The law was enacted in 2003 in response to the increasing number of injuries and fatalities among first responders and workers who operate on or near roadways

This statute states:

• Applies to a driver approaching a stationery emergency vehicle displaying flashing lights
• Driver must move to a lane not adjacent to the vehicle, if possible
• If lane change is impossible or unsafe, driver must reduce speed to below the speed limit and be prepared to stop
• Use caution to ensure that you do not endanger other motorists, bicyclists, or pedestrians 

It applies to the following vehicles:

• Law enforcement
• Fire department 
• Utility vehicles
• HERO units
• Tow trucks
• Wreckers

Georgia’s Right of Way laws

In addition to laws about stationary vehicles, Georgia Code § 40-6-74 mandates drivers yield to approaching police cars, fire trucks, or ambulances that are using audible and visual signals.

Drivers must:

• Give the right-of-way 
• Move to the right-hand edge of the road and stop
• Remain stopped until the emergency vehicle has passed

This rule does not apply if a police officer directs you to do otherwise.

Penalties for violations

Move Over Law penalties

• Up to $500 fines for violations involving emergency vehicles and $250 for utility or towing vehicles
• 3 points added to your driving record
• Higher insurance premiums as a result of added points
• Accumulating 15 or more points in 24 months can lead to a license suspension
• If the violation results in injury or death, significant civil damages could ensue

Penalties for failing to give the right of way

In addition to the above consequences, a failure to yield conviction can carry a sentence of up to 12 months in jail or probation.

So, even if police blue lights aren’t directed at you specifically, it’s both safest and legally required to move over or slow down appropriately in Georgia.

This story was originally published November 12, 2025 at 6:00 AM with the headline "Is it ever OK in GA to ignore blue police lights? Here’s what the law says."