FHP Wants Drivers to Move Over or Face Fines

The Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) is reminding drivers that they could face fines if they fail to move over for stopped law enforcement, emergency vehicles or disabled vehicles stopped on the side of the road.

First introduced in 1971, Florida’s initial so-called “move over” law required drivers to yield the right-of-way to emergency vehicles, including ambulances and fire trucks.

Since then, the statute has been revised several times to include utility and sanitation vehicles and road and bridge maintenance and construction vehicles displaying flashing lights.

The measure was further amended in 2023 to include all disabled vehicles that are stopped on the side of the road and that display warning hazard lights (blinkers).

Under the measure, drivers traveling on a two-lane road must slow to a speed that is 20 mph less than a posted speed limit of 25 mph or greater or travel 5 mph when the posted speed limit is 20 mph or less.
FHP Col. Gary Howze said that the move-over law is crucial to promoting driver safety.

“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.”

According to the FHP, in 2022, 170 crashes occurred and 14,130 citations were issued in Florida for motorists failing to move over. Those who received citations were primarily between the ages of 20 and 50 years old.

Through January, the FHP is partnering with the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT), Florida Police Chiefs Association (FPCA), Florida Sheriffs Association (FSA), and the AAA auto club to remind drivers of Florida’s move-over law.

For details, visit the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles webpage at flhsmv.gov.