PORTLAND (WGME) — In the past three days, three state police cruisers were hit in separate incidents, sending one trooper to the hospital.

Despite all states having the “move over” law, aimed at protecting law enforcement officers and other first responders, the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration says about a third of Americans are not aware the law exists.

A corporal with the Maine State Police says there are two things to keep in mind if you see an emergency or disabled vehicle on the side of the road.

“There are two options: number one, move over, number two, slow down. Neither one is being done on a daily basis,” Maine State Police Corporal Doug Cropper said. “Everyone seems to think the move over law is only when we’re in the breakdown lane, it also applies when we’re in the median lane, just move to the right.”

Last fall, Maine’s law expanded to include any disabled vehicle on the side of the road, not just emergency vehicles and tow truck crews.

Violators could face a $275 fine.

According to AAA, around 350 people die each year from roadside accidents.