Florida’s Move-Over Law: What It Requires and Why

Every year across the country, highway workers, law enforcement officers and first responders are hit by a vehicle as they are working. Like many states, Florida has implemented a Move-Over Law to help protect these workers and keep them safe. This law is important for drivers as well as those the law is meant to protect.

Move-Over Law Makes Roadways Safer

The simple act of moving over saves lives and prevents serious injuries. First responders, police and service vehicles are given the time and space they need to perform their jobs when motorists move over one lane. Safer roads are the result of laws like this.

When you see a service vehicle or emergency vehicle, law enforcement or similar vehicle on the side of the road, the law states that you must move over one lane if you can do so safely. On a two-lane road, if you cannot move over, then you must slow your vehicle to no more than 20 miles per hour under the posted speed limit.

Consequences for Ignoring the Law

Unfortunately, when Florida’s Move-Over Law is ignored, the consequences may be considerably more severe than a ticket. The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles reported more than 200 crashes related to Move-Over law violations in 2018. Nearly 17,000 citations were issued. Respecting this law not only will prevent you from getting a ticket, it may also save a life.

Distracted Driving as a Cause for Accidents

When the economy is strong and gas prices are low, more people are on the road. This also increases the risk for accidents. Thanks to mobile devices and cell phones, there is also an increased risk for distracted driving. Unfortunately, this is the source of many accidents, including those that happen to service and emergency vehicles stopped on the side of the road.

Distracted driving is most likely the reason move-over crashes are on the rise. In 2014, the total number of move-over crashes was 162. By 2018, the number had increased to 231. If people would not use their mobile devices while driving and pay attention to the road, there would be considerably fewer crashes.

Being involved in an accident caused by another person’s neglect or distraction is frustrating at the least and could be devastating if it is major. The Tison Law Group has as one of its many services personal injury representation. We offer a free initial consultation. Contact our office located in Tampa, FL, if you or a loved one has suffered personal injury. We are here to help you.