To kick off the new year and promote safer driving habits, the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) has launched its “Move Over” campaign to raise awareness about the dangers of passing stopped vehicles on the side of the road
The campaign emphasizes the importance of changing lanes or slowing down when approaching emergency vehicles, tow trucks, or disabled cars parked on the shoulder.
“By understanding and respecting the move-over law, every driver can contribute to a safer environment,” said FLHSMV Executive Director Dave Kerner. “Safely changing lanes or slowing down when passing stopped vehicles not only protects lives but also reinforces our collective commitment to road safety. State Troopers have zero tolerance for these dangerous violations and will take enforcement action when a violation is observed.”
The Importance of the Move-Over Law
Violations of the move-over law can have deadly consequences for roadside workers and stranded drivers alike. The FLHSMV’s campaign seeks to ensure that drivers understand their role in making Florida’s roads safer. By following the law, drivers can help prevent tragic accidents and demonstrate respect for those who work to keep our roadways safe.
Whether you’re navigating busy highways or rural backroads, staying vigilant and following move-over laws can save lives. Road safety starts with simple actions—and every driver plays a part in making Florida’s roads safer for everyone.
Florida’s ‘Move Over’ Public Safety Campaign
This January, the FLHSMV is partnering with key statewide organizations to educate drivers about the life-saving importance of moving over when approaching stopped vehicles on the side of the road.
The month-long campaign brings together the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP), the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT), the Florida Sheriffs Association (FSA), the Florida Police Chiefs Association (FPCA), and AAA—The Auto Club Group.
The broad coalition behind this initiative emphasizes a crucial message: moving over isn’t just courteous—it’s essential for keeping Florida’s roads safe.
“Safety is a shared responsibility,” FHP Colonel Gary Howze II emphasized in a statement from FLHSMV. “The Move Over Law emphasizes the important role each of us plays when we are behind the wheel.”
What Is Florida’s ‘Move Over Law’?
Florida’s Move Over Law, established in 1971 under Florida Statute 316.126, originally required drivers to yield or move over for emergency vehicles trying to pass. Over the years, the law has evolved to protect more roadside workers and drivers.
Key updates to Florida’s Move Over Law include:
- 2014: Utility and sanitation vehicles were added to the list of protected vehicles.
- 2021: Bridge maintenance and construction vehicles with warning lights were included.
- 2024: The law was expanded again to cover disabled vehicles stopped on the roadside.
If moving over isn’t possible, drivers must slow down to at least 20 mph below the posted speed limit when approaching these vehicles. These changes reflect Florida’s commitment to preventing avoidable roadside tragedies and keeping workers and stranded motorists safe.
How to Safely Move Over and Avoid Roadside Collisions
Here are key safety tips for both stopped motorists and drivers approaching roadside vehicles:
For Stopped Vehicles:
- Be safe, be seen: Make sure your vehicle is visible to other drivers by using hazard lights and positioning it safely.
- Use caution when exiting: Always check for traffic before stepping out and avoid entering lanes of moving traffic.
- Avoid stopping in travel lanes: Pull completely off the road whenever possible. Stopping in a travel lane can lead to dangerous collisions.
- Call for roadside assistance: If your vehicle is disabled and needs towing, call for help immediately.
- Stay in the vehicle if necessary: If exiting your vehicle puts you at risk, stay inside until help arrives.
For Drivers Approaching Stopped Vehicles:
- Watch for flashing lights: Police cars, tow trucks, and emergency vehicles often have flashing lights. Treat this as your first signal to slow down and prepare to move over.
- Check traffic before switching lanes: Look around to ensure it’s safe before changing lanes—don’t swerve into another vehicle’s path.
- Look ahead: Pay attention to the road ahead for signs of a disabled vehicle or roadside workers.
- Move over when safe: If possible, change lanes to create space between your vehicle and the stopped vehicle.
- Slow down if you can’t move over: If changing lanes isn’t an option, reduce your speed by at least 20 mph if the posted limit is above 25 mph, or slow to 5 mph if the limit is 25 mph or less.
- Avoid distractions: Stay focused—don’t text, make calls, or multitask when passing roadside vehicles.
Protect Yourself After a Roadside Accident
Despite public safety campaigns and laws designed to prevent crashes, accidents caused by reckless or distracted drivers still happen far too often. If you or a loved one has been injured by a driver who failed to follow Florida’s Move Over Law, it’s important to know your rights and take action.
A Plantation, Florida car accident lawyer at Feingold Posner Draizin can help you seek the compensation you deserve. With extensive experience handling complex car accident cases throughout Florida, our legal team will guide you through the process, handle the insurance companies, and fight for the best possible outcome.
Don’t let someone else’s negligence derail your life—contact Feingold Posner Draizin today for a free consultation and find out how we can help you get back on track. Stack the deck in your favor!
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