New Mexico DMV Drivers Practice Test 2025 - Free DMV Practice Questions and Study Guide

When you encounter a police officer on the side of the road, the appropriate action is to slow down and move over a lane if it is safe to do so. This response is crucial for the safety of both the officer and other motorists. By slowing down, you reduce the risk of an accident, and moving over allows the officer more space to operate and conduct their duties without the added concern of nearby traffic.

This practice is not just a courtesy but often part of the "Move Over" laws that many states, including New Mexico, have enacted. These laws are designed to protect law enforcement personnel and emergency responders who are working alongside busy roadways.

Ignoring the officer or accelerating past them could endanger lives, including your own, as it may create a precarious situation for the officer and can lead to serious consequences for the driver. Stopping immediately in front of the officer's vehicle can also create a hazardous situation, blocking the roadway and potentially causing confusion or panic. Thus, slowing down and safely changing lanes is the best approach in this scenario.