January is Move Over Florida Month
What “Move Over” Means and Why It Matters
If you have ever driven past someone stopped on the shoulder while traffic zooms by too close, you already get it. That uneasy feeling is exactly why Florida recognizes Move Over Florida Month every January.
The idea is simple. Anyone on the roadside deserves a safety buffer, whether it is a law enforcement officer, tow operator, Road Ranger, utility worker, or a family dealing with a flat tire.
How the Law Works
Florida’s Move Over Law (Statute 316.126) says:
- If you are approaching a stopped vehicle on the shoulder:
- Move over one lane away, if it is safe to do so
- If you cannot move over, or you are on a two-lane road, slow down as you pass
Official overview: FLHSMV Move Over, Florida!
Full law text: Florida Statutes 316.126
Changes You Should Know About
As of January 1, 2024, the law expanded to include disabled vehicles stopped on the roadside, not just emergency or service vehicles, when they are using hazard lights or other visible signals.
Quick explainer: FLHSMV “It’s Your Move” campaign update
Coalition breakdown: FTSDC: Florida’s Expanded Move Over Law
Why This Matters
This is not just about courtesy. It can be a matter of life or death.
- In 2022, Florida reported 170 crashes related to failing to move over
- More than 14,000 citations were issued
Source: FLHSMV Move Over page
Who You Must Move Over For
People often think this applies only to law enforcement. That is not true. The law covers:
- Law enforcement and emergency vehicles
- Tow trucks and wreckers
- Utility and sanitation vehicles
- Road and bridge maintenance or construction vehicles
- All disabled vehicles (new expansion)
Helpful refresher: FLHSMV Move Over, Florida!
What Happens If You Do Not Move Over
Violating the Move Over Law can mean fines, fees, and points on your license.
Details here: FLHSMV Move Over info
Tips for Teen Drivers
- See it early, decide early
As soon as you spot lights, cones, or a vehicle on the shoulder, plan your lane change early. Last-second swerves can cause crashes. - Do not match traffic
If you cannot move over, slow down. This means:
- 20 mph below the posted speed limit on roads over 20 mph
- If the speed limit is 20 mph or less, slow to 5 mph under the limit
- Avoid shoulder drift
Do not let your eyes pull the car toward the shoulder. Keep your lane position steady, hands steady, and eyes on the road. - If you break down
Turn on hazard lights immediately. If it is safe, move as far off the travel lane as possible. Get people out of the vehicle and away from traffic when you can, and call for help.
More teen safety tools: FTSDC Driver Education Resources
Tips for Parents (Without Making It a Lecture)
Make it a driving script:
“If it is on the shoulder, we move over. If we cannot, we slow down.”
Practice during everyday drives by asking:
- Can we move over safely?
- If not, what speed should we be traveling?
That is how it becomes automatic.
How Community Partners Can Help This Month
Move Over Month is an easy win because the message is clear and actionable.
Simple ideas that work:
- Share a short reminder post each week in January
- Add Move Over language to newsletters or parent emails
- Display reminder graphics on digital signs
- Start meetings with a brief safety moment
Ready-to-use materials:
FTSDC Driver Education Resources library
Bottom Line
Move Over is not just a law. It is a mindset.
People working or stranded on the roadside should not be inches from traffic.
This month, let’s make the standard:
Move over when you can.
Slow down when you cannot.
Every time.