“MOVE OVER!” It’s the LAW

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Enacted in 2002, the “Move Over” law is one of the most important yet lesser known laws for U.S. roadways.  The law requires all drivers to move over or slow down when approaching any emergency vehicle using a visual signal and that is stopped, parked or next to a roadway.  If you are driving near an emergency vehicle, the law requires you to change lanes to move away from the emergency vehicle or, if unable to make a lane change, slow down considerably to a reasonable speed considering factors such as weather and road conditions.

More specifically, The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles has published the following “Move Over” requirements for all drivers:

Multi-Lane Roadway:

  • “Drivers must vacate the lane closest to the stationary emergency vehicle, tow truck, sanitation, or utility vehicle. (Always signal your intention to change lanes.)
  • Drivers must slow down to a speed of 20 mph below the posted speed limit if they cannot move over safely.
  • Drivers who are not in the lane closest to the stationary vehicle should be prepared to allow those who are to move over into their lane.”

Two-Lane Roadway:

  • “Drivers must slow down to a speed of 20 mph below the posted speed limit.
  • If the speed limit is 20 mph or less, drivers must travel at 5 mph.”

The first “Move Over” law was enacted in South Carolina after a paramedic was hit by a vehicle while providing care to someone who was in a crash.   Sadly, each year other paramedics and law enforcement officers are killed while they are responding to traffic-related incidents.

In Florida during 2013 there were more than 130 crashes caused by motorists who violated the “Move Over” law.  Of the 130 crashes, 81 resulted in injuries and 2 resulted in deaths. In the U.S. during 2003 -2012, 1,540 officers were killed while on duty, with nearly half of them killed in traffic incidents.

Unfortunately, misinformed drivers think “moving over” is an optional courtesy.

It’s not.    It’s the law.

If you have a question about the “Move Over” law, violation of the law, or a Florida roadway vehicle crash, we can help.  Goldman & Daszkal, P.A.  (954) 428-9333

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Goldman & Daszkal, P.A.

Since 1990, Goldman & Daszkal, P.A. has provided reputable legal representation to people throughout Palm Beach, Broward, and Miami-Dade Counties.  The firm has helped thousands of individuals recover compensation from motor vehicle and boating accidents, slip and fall accidents, product defect and liability cases, pharmacy errors, and negligent security cases to cover medical expenses, pay bills, take care of their families, and return to work.  Goldman & Daszkal, P.A. can help you get the relief you need to start living your life again after a serious injury.  For a free and confidential consultation, contact Goldman & Daszkal, P.A., at (954) 428-9333.

[1]  https://www.flhsmv.gov/2015/01/13/slow-move-save-life/

[2] https://www.flhsmv.gov/2015/01/13/slow-move-save-life/

[3]  https://www.flhsmv.gov/2015/01/13/slow-move-save-life/

[4] The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) http://www.trafficsafetymarketing.gov/MoveOver