Move Over Law – Pictured: Police Pulls Over Vehicle – Courtesy: Shutterstock – Image by Michael O’Keene
The Florida Highway Patrol and the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles are encouraging drivers to abide by the law on Wednesday as part of Move Over Awareness Month in January.
Beginning on January 1, 2025, Florida’s Move Over Act will be expanded to require drivers to slow down or change to the next lane if they observe any emergency signage or cars parked on the side of the road with flashing hazard lights.
Enacted in 2002, the law compelled cars to yield to emergency, service, or utility vehicles on the side of the road in order to protect first responders and law enforcement personnel working on highway sides.
Vehicles with a flat tire or those with disabilities are new additions to the law.
Executive Director Dave Kerner stated, “Unfortunately, we have witnessed numerous State Troopers, other law enforcement officers, and service professionals being killed or injured by someone who did not give them the room to work over the years.”
According to FLHSMV data, there were 205 collisions and nearly 17,500 penalties for drivers in Florida who failed to move over in 2024.
Drivers between the ages of 20 and 29 are less likely to slow down or move over for emergency or disabled cars, according to officials.
“Florida’s Move Over Law is about protecting lives on Florida’s roads,” said Florida Sheriffs Association President and Seminole County Sheriff Dennis Lemma. “The recent updates to the Move Over Law strengthened protections not only for first responders, but for all Floridians stopped with a disabled vehicle. Whether it’s emergency personnel, utility workers, or a family with hazard lights on, drivers must slow down and move over when it’s safe. Staying alert and giving space saves lives.”
Drivers who disobey the Move Over law risk fines and license points.
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Mike has more than 30 years of experience in marketing and public relations. He once owned his own agency and has worked with some of the largest brands in the world.
