Florida’s “Move Over Law” Got an Update by Alina Lopez

If you drive in Florida, you must be familiar with the “Move Over” law enacted in 2002. In essence it was created to curb accidents by motorists against law enforcement officers, first responders, and other emergency vehicles conducting traffic stops or rendering aid on highways and roads. Too many incidents have occurred in which a traveling vehicle has crashed into a first responder on the side of the road, causing injury or death to them. In 2022 alone, there were 170 crashes because of motorists not moving over when there was a first responder or others assisting another driver on the road. A person who fails to follow the move over law can gravely put at risk the safety of public safety professionals and anyone involved.

House Bill 425 requires drivers to safely move over a lane or, if unable to move, slow down to 20 miles under the posted speed limit when approaching an emergency or law enforcement vehicle parked along the roadway. In 2014, the law was changed to include sanitation and utility service vehicles. Once again, the law got an expansion, and as of January 1, 2024, it includes moving over for all disabled motor vehicles that are stopped and displaying hazard lights, emergency flares, or posting emergency signage. Statistically, the most likely to violate the act are drivers aged 20-40. This age group has been found to be less likely to move over when they approach emergency, service, or disabled vehicles.

Failure to adhere to the “Move Over” law will result in a fine, fees, and points on your driving record. The base fine is $60, but with additional fees and surcharges, the penalty may be $158, per the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV). Remember it is important for drivers to remain alert while driving and follow all the roadway rules to ensure the safety of others. This simple act of moving over gives law enforcement and other service vehicles sufficient space to do their jobs while assisting motorists and can increase safety on Florida’s roads.

More information about Florida’s Move Over Law, other driving laws, and driving safety tips can be found at www.flhsmv.gov.

Until next time, be aware, make good choices, and be safe! To contact our office, call 305-470-1670 or visit our website www.citizenscrimewatch.org.