People often ask us, how does Florida’s new move over law work? The truth is Florida already had a move over law that required you to move over a lane for first responders, and other emergency vehicles.
The new law, that went into effect on January 1, is expanded to include all disabled vehicles. This includes vehicles displaying hazard lights, emergency flares, or emergency signage.
Why is this law important? Well, according to the American Automobile Association, from 2016-2020, an average of nearly 350 people per year were struck and killed while outside their disabled vehicle on the roadside.
Data shows that the roadside can be especially deadly for tow truck operators who are often killed while performing roadside assistance. Penalties for not moving over for an emergency or disabled vehicle can include a fine of up to $500 and three points added to your license.
Next time you come upon a disabled vehicle along the roadside, if it is safe to do so, move over one lane. You’ll be following the law, and you might be saving a life.
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