Florida Troopers Crack Down on Move-Over Law Violations in January

As the new year rolls in, Florida is shining a spotlight on road safety with a campaign to raise awareness about the Move Over law. The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) and the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) have teamed up with other state and local organizations, including the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) and AAA. Together, they’re reminding drivers that everyone has a role in keeping the roads safe, especially when encountering emergency responders or stranded motorists on the roadside.

Florida first introduced the Move Over law in 1971 to protect emergency responders working along the highway. Over the years, the law has evolved to prevent a wider range of car accidents. In 2014, utility and sanitation vehicles were added to the list. By 2021, the law extended to road and bridge maintenance or construction vehicles with flashing lights. Most recently, in 2024, the law expanded to include all disabled vehicles displaying hazard lights.

What does Florida's Move-Over law ask of drivers?

The Move Over law is simple. If you see a vehicle with flashing lights on the roadside (whether it’s an emergency vehicle, a utility truck, or a stranded motorist) you must move over one lane if it’s safe to do so. If you can’t move over, the law requires you to slow down. For example, you'll need to drop your speed by at least 20 mph below the posted limit. If the speed limit is 20 mph or less, you must slow down to 5 mph.

Failing to follow the law can result in fines, fees, and points on your license. FLHSMV Executive Director Dave Kerner stressed the importance of compliance: "Safely changing lanes or slowing down when passing stopped vehicles not only protects lives but also reinforces our collective commitment to road safety."

FHP Colonel Gary Howze II added that obeying the law helps protect everyone on the road, including first responders, other drivers, and passengers.

Why is there a Move Over law in Florida?

Every day, first responders, tow truck operators, and stranded drivers face real danger on the side of the road. Moving over gives them the space they need to do their jobs safely or wait for help without risking further harm.

FDOT Secretary Jared W. Perdue encourages drivers to make safe driving a priority as the new year begins. "We need your help in making smart and safe decisions when you get behind the wheel," he said.

Leaders from the Florida Sheriffs Association and the Florida Police Chiefs Association also stressed the importance of protecting first responders and roadside workers. Sheriff Bill Prummell put it simply: "By moving over or slowing down, drivers can significantly reduce the chances of tragic collisions, helping to ensure law enforcement officers make it home to their loved ones."

How can disabled motorists protect themselves?

Breaking down on the side of the road can be stressful and scary, but there are steps you can take to stay safe:

• Use hazard lights, reflective vests, or cones to ensure other drivers see you.
• Pull over to a safe spot, ideally on the right-hand shoulder. Avoid stopping in travel lanes or on bridges.
• Call roadside assistance or *FHP (*347) for help. If it’s unsafe to leave your vehicle, stay inside with your seatbelt on.
• If you exit your vehicle, do so on the side away from traffic and stay alert to passing vehicles.

What should drivers do to prevent roadside accidents?

Being a safe and responsible driver means staying alert and prepared to act when you see roadside vehicles. Here’s what you should do:

• Move over one lane whenever possible. If you can’t, slow down as required by the law.
• Stay vigilant and highly attentive, especially at night or in bad weather when visibility is lower.
• Avoid distractions such as texting and driving, and always focus on the road ahead.
• Keep your headlights and windshield clean to maximize your visibility, especially at night.

Let us help you get back on your feet after a roadside accident

If you or a loved one was injured in a roadside accident, the Law Offices of Brent C. Miller is here to support you. With over 75 years of combined experience serving Central Florida communities, we’ve helped countless families recover compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. In one case, we obtained $610,000 for a client injured by a drunk driver. That's just one of many verdicts and settlements we've won for our clients.

We know how overwhelming it can feel to face these challenges, which is why we work on a contingency fee basis. That means you don’t pay us anything unless we win your case. During your free consultation, we’ll listen to your story, answer your questions, and lay out a clear plan to move forward with your case. From investigating your accident to handling the insurance companies, we’ll take the weight off your shoulders so you can focus on what matters most: your recovery.

To find out how we can help, contact us today for your free consultation. With offices in Tavares, The Villages, Inverness, and Clermont, we’re here to provide compassionate, reliable legal guidance. Let us help you take the first step toward healing and justice.

"My experience working with the Law Offices of Brent C. Miller, P.A. was wonderful. The staff was extremely helpful and always responded to my questions, no matter how many times I asked them." - CW, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐