Florida's Move Over law has been expanded. Here's what all drivers need to know

Cheryl McCloud, Tallahassee Democrat
·4 min read
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Florida's Move Over law has been expanded.

Currently, Florida law requires motorists to move over a lane — when they can safely do so — for stopped law enforcement and emergency responders, among others.

The new law, which was signed by Gov. Ron DeSantis, will require drivers to move over a lane for any broken-down vehicles.

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So what does that mean for Florida drivers?

What does HB 425 say?

The expanded Move Over law adds three additional scenarios to Florida’s current law. Motorists will be required to move over if:

  • There is a disabled motor vehicle that is stopped and displaying warning lights or hazard lights.

  • If a vehicle is stopped and is using emergency flares or posting emergency signage.

  • When a vehicle is stopped and one or more persons are visibly present.

When does Florida's expanded Move Over law go into effect?

The law is effective beginning Jan. 1, 2024.

What were drivers required to do under Florida's original version of the Move Over law?

Florida law requires motorists to move over a lane — when they can safely do so — for the following:

  • Stopped law enforcement.

  • Emergency responders.

  • Sanitation and utility service vehicles.

  • Tow trucks or wreckers.

  • Maintenance or construction vehicles with displayed warning lights without advanced signs or channelizing devices.

What if you can't move over a lane?

Motorists who can't move over, or when driving on a two-lane road, should:

  • Slow to a speed that is 20 mph less than the posted speed limit.

  • Slow down to 5 mph when the posted speed limit is 20 mph or less.

If you fail to move over, what happens?

Besides putting yourself and others at risk, violating the Move Over law could result in a fine, fees and points on your driving record.

AAA applauds expanded Move Over law for Florida

“AAA began advocating for a stronger law late last year with our ‘Move Over for Me’ campaign,” said Mark Jenkins, public relations manager for AAA.

“We are extremely grateful that Florida lawmakers took this necessary action to enhance protection for all motorists, in addition to the first responders who come to their aid.”

Over 4 years, an average of 350 people are killed outside a disabled vehicle

According to AAA:

  • From 2016-2020, an average of nearly 350 people per year were struck and killed while outside a disabled vehicle on the roadside.

  • On average, two emergency responders, including tow truck workers, are struck and killed every month by a driver who fails to obey the law by moving over to an adjacent lane and allowing the roadside rescuers the space to operate, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

  • Roadside crashes are notably deadly for tow workers. Government data shows that tow operators are killed at a rate of almost 43 deaths per 100,000 workers, compared to three for all other industries.

"These heroes put their lives on the line every time they rescue someone on the roadside,” said Jenkins. “We ask that drivers minimize distractions and constantly pay attention to the road ahead of you. Doing so could save lives.”

AAA tips for drivers

  • Remain alert, avoid distractions and focus on driving.

  • Keep an eye out for emergency vehicles — including tow trucks — that have their lights on as well as cars that have their flashers on. Move over one lane when you see them and if you can’t move over, slow down to safely pass them.

  • Be a good passenger — help identify roadway issues and remind the driver to slow down and move over.

  • Watch for people on the roadside. Just because you don’t immediately see them doesn’t mean they aren’t there, bent down by their vehicle, in front of the vehicle, or about to get in or out of the vehicle.

AAA tips for stranded motorists

  • Pull as far over on the shoulder safely possible to create more distance between your vehicle and oncoming traffic.

  • Turn your hazard lights on so other drivers are aware you are in distress.

  • If you are able to safely make it to the next exit or stopping point, do so.

  • Call for assistance, whether via phone, website or AAA app.

  • Remain with your vehicle as long as it’s safe to do so.

  • If getting out of your vehicle, watch the oncoming traffic for a good time to exit, and remain close to your vehicle. Try to avoid turning your back to traffic whenever possible.

Read House Bill 425 in its entirety

This article originally appeared on Tallahassee Democrat: Florida Move Over law expands to include any broken-down vehicles