Move Over Laws in Florida and Arizona Aim to Protect Lives on the Roadside

By Ciara Perez, Senior Multimedia Correspondent

iSkyNews.com (ISC News) – Published January 7th, 2026

_____

Move Over Laws in Florida and Arizona Aim to Protect Lives on the Roadside

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Florida officials are asking drivers to slow down, pay attention, and do one simple thing that can save lives: move over.

The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) and the Florida Highway Patrol are using January—recognized as Move Over Month—to remind motorists that the shoulder of the road is one of the most dangerous places to work or be stranded.

Florida’s Move Over law requires drivers to change lanes when approaching emergency vehicles, tow trucks, utility crews, or disabled vehicles stopped on the roadside. If it’s not safe to move over, drivers must slow down to 20 miles per hour below the posted speed limit.

And the law now covers more people than ever.

As of January 1, 2025, the Move Over law was expanded to include any vehicle stopped on the side of the road with hazard lights flashing, emergency flares, or visible warning signs. That means even a driver with a flat tire or a broken-down car is protected.

“Over the years, we’ve seen too many troopers, officers, and service workers seriously injured or killed because drivers didn’t give them space,” said FLHSMV Executive Director Dave Kerner. “These crashes are preventable. Slowing down and moving over truly saves lives.”

Florida Highway Patrol Colonel Gary Howze says the message is simple and applies to everyone. “This isn’t just about following the law—it’s about common sense and courtesy. Whether it’s law enforcement, emergency responders, tow trucks, or utility crews, moving over can be the difference between someone going home safely or not.”

The Florida Department of Transportation also urges drivers to stay alert and avoid distractions. FDOT Secretary Jared W. Perdue, P.E., says giving responders room to work helps protect everyone on the road and keeps traffic moving safely.

The numbers show why the reminder matters. In 2024, Florida saw 205 crashes related to Move Over violations, and more than 17,500 drivers were cited for failing to comply. State data shows drivers ages 20 to 29 are the most likely to violate the law, which is why Move Over education is included in Florida’s driver handbook and licensing exams.

“Florida’s Move Over law is about protecting lives,” said Florida Sheriffs Association President and Seminole County Sheriff Dennis Lemma. “That includes first responders, roadside workers, and everyday families stopped with hazard lights on.”

Florida Police Chiefs Association President and Ft. Walton Beach Police Chief Robert Bage added that as 2026 begins, drivers should make this a habit. “When you see flashing lights on the shoulder, move over. It’s a small action that shows respect and keeps everyone safer.”

Law enforcement agencies across the state say they will continue educating drivers and enforcing the law. Violations can result in fines, added fees, and points on a driver’s license. More information is available in Section 316.126 of the Florida Statutes.

Arizona Has a Move Over Law Too

Arizona drivers are also required to move over or slow down when approaching roadside emergency or service vehicles under Arizona Revised Statute §28-775.

Arizona law requires motorists to change lanes away from emergency vehicles, tow trucks, utility vehicles, or highway maintenance vehicles displaying flashing lights. If a lane change cannot be made safely, drivers must slow down to a safe speed below the posted limit.

The law is enforced statewide and applies to vehicles stopped on highways, freeways, and surface streets. Violations can result in civil penalties and fines, particularly if a failure to move over results in injury or property damage.

Officials say the intent of both states’ laws is the same: to reduce preventable roadside crashes and protect lives.

Officials say the takeaway is clear: slow down, move over, and help make Florida’s roads safer for everyone.