Crime & Safety

FHP Focusing on 'Move Over' Law Throughout January

Florida's "move over" law requires that drivers move out of the way of stopped emergency vehicles-- or slow down to a speed of 20 mph below the speed limit.

The following is a press release from the Florida Highway Patrol: 


A routine traffic stop can be anything but routine for emergency responders. 

Since 1999, more than 200 law enforcement officers in the United States have died and thousands injured in a crash as a result of being on the side of the road doing their job and being hit by an oncoming vehicle.  

During the month of January, Florida Highway Patrol troopers will increase their focus on making drivers aware of the state’s Move Over law. The law protects law enforcement officers, emergency workers and tow truck drivers who are stopped along Florida roadways doing their jobs. 

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“Florida’s Move Over law was enacted in 2002 to safeguard Florida’s emergency responders who are out on the roadways every day working to protect you and your families,” said Col. David Brierton, director of the Florida Highway Patrol.  “Abide by the Move Over law and help us protect our emergency personnel and their families.”

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Understanding Move Over:

  • Drivers must move over when a patrol car, emergency vehicle and/or tow truck is stopped on the side of a road with lights flashing.
  • If they cannot move over safely, drivers should slow down to a speed of 20 mph below the posted speed limit.
  • Always approach the emergency vehicle with caution.

 

Violating Move Over laws puts motorists and emergency responders at risk.  In Florida, it can also result in a fine and points on your driver license record.  Read more about Florida’s Move Over Law at http://www.flhsmv.gov/SafetyTips/MoveOverTips.htm.

 

The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles provides highway safety and security through excellence in service, education and enforcement. The Department is leading the way to a safer Florida through the efficient and professional execution of its core mission: the issuance of driver licenses, vehicle tags and titles and operation of the Florida Highway Patrol. To learn more about DHSMV and the services offered, visit www.flhsmv.gov, follow us on Instagram at FLHSMV, Twitter @FLHSMV or find us on Facebook.


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