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Legislation protecting emergency workers was expanded in 2014 to include utility vehicles

All Florida drivers should be aware of the state’s “Move Over” law,  enacted in 2002 and amended in 2014.

The law states drivers approaching a law enforcement or emergency vehicle parked along the roadway must slow to a speed 20 miles per hour below the posted speed limit if traveling on a two-lane roadway. If traveling on a roadway with multiple lanes of traffic in the same direction, drivers must vacate the lane closest to the vehicle as soon as it is safe to do so. 

Drivers may not be aware of an amendment to the law that was effective July 1, 2014. As of this date, the law has been expanded to include sanitation and utility vehicles.

The jobs of our line workers are hazardous and can become even more dangerous when they work on the ground around traffic.

Let’s work together to follow the law, pay attention, slow down, move over and stay safe.

Specific Requirements

• On a two-lane roadway, you are required to slow to a speed that is 20 miles per hour less than the posted speed limit.
• If the speed limit is 20 miles per hour or less, you must slow down to 5 miles per hour.
• If driving on an interstate or roadway with multiple lanes of travel in the same direction, you must vacate the lane closest to that vehicle as soon as it is safe to do so. If you are not able to safely move over, you must slow down to 20 mph below the posted speed limit unless directed otherwise by a law enforcement officer.
• Violating the Move Over law can result in a fine and points on your license.