Do Florida drivers have to move over from stopped emergency vehicles? Here’s the answer

If you’re a Florida driver and come across a traffic crash on the roadway, state law requires you to move over one lane—when it is safe to do so—for stopped law enforcement, emergency responders, tow trucks, sanitation, utility service vehicles, maintenance or construction vehicles displaying warning lights and even disabled vehicles on the roadside.

The Move Over Law was emphasized by the Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office on Saturday after a deputy was struck by a vehicle while stopped on the Turnpike near Northwest 74th street to assist the Florida Highway Patrol which a traffic crash.

If drivers cannot safely change lanes, or if they are on a two-lane road, they are required to slow down to at least 20 miles per hour below the posted speed limit. When the posted speed limit is 20 mph or less, drivers must slow to 5 mph.

The Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicle agency says the law is designed to give first responders, service workers and stranded motorists the space they need to work safely.

“The simple act of moving over gives law enforcement, emergency first responders and other service vehicles adequate space to do their jobs and can greatly increase safety on Florida’s roadways,” the agency states on its website.

The injured Miami-Dade deputy was air lifted to the HCA Florida Kendall Hospital, where he underwent surgery and remains in critical but stable condition as of Saturday afternoon.

“Although we remain cautiously hopeful, this is very serious and we ask everyone for prayers,” Assistant Sheriff Eric Garcia told reporters outside the hospital.

Violations and risks

The state reports that in 2022 there were 170 crashes and more than 14,000 citations issued statewide for failing to move over.

Statistically, drivers between the ages of 20 and 40 are the most likely to violate the Move Over Act, according to the agency. The highway safety and motor vehicle agencu includes Move Over Law education in the Florida Driver Handbook and even tests new drivers on the law during the licensing exam.

Failing to comply can result in fines, court fees and points on a driver’s license under Section 316.126 of Florida Statutes.

“When a driver fails to move over for stopped or disabled vehicles on the roadside, they put the safety of law enforcement, first responders, service professionals AND the motorists they assist gravely at risk,” the agency said.