TALLAHASSEE, FL (352today.com) – Most Florida drivers know that state law requires you to move over a lane for emergency and service vehicles stopped on the side of the road, or at least slow down if you cannot safely move over. It’s been a law for more than two decades, going into effect in 2002.

Now starting on January 1, 2024, the criteria to ‘move over’ expands.

The move over law update requires motorists to move over for ALL disabled vehicles stopped on the side of the road displaying warning/emergency/hazard lights, emergency flares, or emergency signage.

The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV), its division of the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP), and various partners are trying to make sure Florida drivers are aware of the changes and the reason behind the safety initiative.

In 2022, FLHSMV says there were 170 crashes and more than 14,000 citations issued for motorists failing to move over.

An FHP trooper’s dashcam video posted on YouTube demonstrates the reason for the law. In 2015, FHP says trooper Mac Mickens had pulled over a motorist on the Florida Turnpike near Orlando. He was hit by a vehicle that failed to move over. Troopers say Mickens survived but suffered serious injuries including a broken pelvis.

“The Move Over Law protects all of Florida’s citizens and visitors” said FHP Colonel Gary Howze. “In addition to providing public service professionals the space they need to deliver critical services; it provides safety to our residents and their guests should they experience difficulties with their vehicle.”

Penalties for Violating
Throughout the month of January, area law enforcement will continue to educate the public about the law’s new requirements.

The Citrus County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) says if you are unable to move over to another lane, you must slow down 20 mph from the original speed limit. If you do not move over or slowdown, you could be fined up to $158 said CCSO.

“Please help us keep our roadways, emergency personnel, workers, and citizens safe by moving over,” said CCSO in a Facebook post.

“Observing the move over law is more than a legal duty; it’s a simple yet powerful gesture of respect and care for the brave individuals who stand at the front line of roadside safety,” said Clermont Police Chief Charles “Chuck” Broadway who is also the president of the Florida Police Chiefs Association. “Let’s all move over and create a safer environment, not just because it’s the law, but because it’s the right thing to do for our everyday heroes.”

Move Over Law History
FLHSMV says all 50 states have move over laws.  Florida’s went into effect in 2002. The state says it was introduced in 1971 and has been amended over the years. In 2014, utility and sanitation vehicles were added, and then in 2021, road and bridge maintenance or construction vehicles displaying warning lights were also included.