COLUMBUS, Ohio - What was once considered just a nice gesture on the roadways is not a requirement to avoid a fine.

One of several traffic laws that go into effect today requires motorists to either move over or slow down if there is a tow truck along the side of the road. Anyone who does not reduce speeds or change lanes is subject to a fine of $300 plus court costs.

The law is designed to protect tow truck operators from passing motorists. Anyone caught violating the new law a second time would face a $500 fine.

Along with the lane change, other traffic laws the begin today include a new speed limit for trucks, a mandate for motorists to use headlights whenever they use windshield wipers, and the establishment of a transition zone for speed limit drops of more than 20 miles per hour.