Florida extends ‘move over' law to sanitation, utility workers

Tallahassee, FL – Florida legislators have expanded the state’s Move-Over Act to include protections for workers who operate or ride in or on sanitation and utility service vehicles.

The law, which requires motorists to move over or slow down for emergency vehicles or tow trucks that are stopped along the side of the road, was amended to include garbage and recycling trucks, as well as vehicles that are clearly marked for electric, natural gas, water, wastewater, cable, telephone or communications services. The change went into effect July 1.

On roads with two or more lanes, motorists are required to vacate the lane closest to the stopped service vehicle if they may safely do so. If changing lanes is not an option, motorists are required to slow down 20 mph below the posted speed limit. If the speed limit is 20 mph or less, motorists are required to travel at 5 mph.

Violators could face a $30 fine and up to $124 in court costs.