January is 'Move Over Month' in Florida. Here's a full breakdown of the traffic law

January is ‘Move Over Month’

The Florida Highway Patrol is reminding all drivers about the importance of the state’s Move Over Law. FOX 13’s Regina Gonzalez explains.

TAMPA, Fla. - During the month of January, Florida Highway Patrol troopers are stressing an important message: moving over and making room for disabled vehicles is not just a courtesy, but a responsibility that every driver should uphold.

Most drivers are aware of the Move Over Law, as every state has one. In Florida, the law was introduced in 1971, requiring motorists to move or yield right-of-way to emergency vehicles.

The law has been amended over the years to make roads safer. In 2014, utility and sanitation vehicles were added. In 2021, road and bridge maintenance or construction vehicles displaying warning lights were also included.

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In 2024, the law was expanded to include moving over for all disabled vehicles on the side of the road that are stopped and display warning/hazard lights. If a driver can't move over — or when on a two-lane highway — slow to a speed that is 20 mph or less than the posted speed limit. Slow down to 5 mph when the posted speed limit is 20 mph or less. Violating the Move Over law will result in a fine, fees, and points on your driving record.

For more information, see section 316.126, Florida Statutes by clicking here.

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"By understanding and respecting the move-over law, every driver can contribute to a safer environment," said FLHSMV Executive Director Dave Kerner. "Safely changing lanes or slowing down when passing stopped vehicles not only protects lives but also reinforces our collective commitment to road safety. State troopers have zero tolerance for these dangerous violations and will take enforcement action when a violation is observed."

Through November, there were 170 crashes statewide in 2024 caused by drivers failing to obey the Move Over Law. These crashes resulted in one death and 10 serious injuries.

According to the FLHSMV, more than 15,000 drivers were cited for violating Florida’s Move Over Law from the beginning of January through the end of November 2024.

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