Press Release
For Immediate Release
Local Tow Truck Driver Raises Awareness About Connecticut’s Move Over Law
North Haven, CT – July, 2024 – In a heartfelt campaign to protect the lives of tow truck drivers, local tow truck operator Salena Khan is raising awareness about Connecticut’s Move Over law. This effort comes in the wake of alarming statistics from AAA, which report that a tow truck driver is killed every six days in America.
The Move Over law in Connecticut mandates that drivers must move over for police, emergency vehicles, and tow truck drivers when they see them on the side of the highway. Unfortunately, many motorists are not complying with this law, putting the lives of tow truck operators at serious risk.
A Personal Mission
Salena Khan, who works for her family’s business, Nelcon Towing in North Haven, has experienced firsthand the dangers of working on the sides of highways. “No one is moving over; I almost got hit,” Khan shared. Her concerns are deeply personal, especially after the tragic death of fellow tow truck driver Christopher Russell, who was killed last year while assisting a motorist on I-91.
“That could be any one of us, and so it hits home, and it bothers me tremendously,” Khan said. This tragic event spurred Khan into action, leading her to advocate for greater awareness and compliance with the Move Over law.
Life on the Line Campaign
Khan is spearheading the Life on the Line campaign, aimed at educating the public about the Move Over law and the everyday dangers faced by tow truck drivers. A key component of her campaign is pushing for legislative changes that would allow tow trucks to use red and blue lights instead of the traditional yellow ones.
“They see those red and blues and unfortunately those are the lights that people slow down and move over for,” Khan explained. This change, she believes, could significantly improve safety for tow truck operators.
Support from Local Officials
Senator Paul Ciccarella (R – North Haven), a member of the state’s Public Safety Committee, has expressed support for Khan’s initiative. “It does make sense that maybe that can help,” Ciccarella said. “I think it’s not knowing that law is there, maybe a lack of enforcing that law if it’s seen.”
In the meantime, Khan has implemented a temporary solution by placing red and blue lights on cones in front of the trucks during emergencies. This measure aims to capture motorists’ attention and encourage them to move over.
A Call to Action
Khan’s campaign is not just about legislative changes; it’s about changing driver behavior. “I don’t want to see my dad, my brother, friends, second family here get killed because people couldn’t follow the rules and they’re being selfish,” Khan stated.
She hopes her efforts will resonate with the public and prompt drivers to be more mindful and compliant with the Move Over law. “I’m pushing for change, but in the meantime, I’m really hoping people see this and the next time they see a tow truck driver working, they move over.”