Drivers are required to "move over" or "slow down" when approaching an authorized emergency vehicle that is stopped on a highway in Florida. The "Move Over Law" became effective July 1, 2002.
The law protects law enforcement officers, emergency workers, firefighters and tow truck drivers stopped along roadways performing their jobs. On interstate highways or other highways with two or more lanes traveling in the direction of the emergency vehicle, and except when otherwise directed by a law enforcement officer, drivers approaching law enforcement or other authorized emergency vehicle parked on a roadway with their emergency lights activated, are required to:
• vacate the lane closest to the emergency vehicle, as soon as it is safe to do so;
• slow to a speed that is 20 miles per hour less than the posted speed limit when the posted speed limit is 25 miles per hour or greater; or
• travel at five miles per hour when the posted speed limit is 20 miles per hour or less.
The "Move Over Law" was designed to protect law enforcement and other emergency workers on our highways.
(Information courtesy of Anne M. Gannon, Palm Beach County Tax Collector)