SAVE LIVES, MOVE OVER: Brevard Fire Rescue, FDOT Urges Drivers to Move Over Every Time

these precautions are not optional

BREVARD COUNTY, FLORIDA – Although January was recognized as Move Over Month, Brevard County Fire Rescue and the Florida Department of Transportation are reminding drivers that the responsibility to move over and slow down for emergency and service vehicles applies every day of the year.

In a recent message to the community, the department emphasized that the Move Over law is designed to protect first responders and roadside workers who face dangers each time they step out of their vehicles.

Fire rescue officials shared safety guidance from the Traffic Safety Team outlining what drivers are required to do when approaching stopped vehicles displaying warning lights:

• On roadways with two or more lanes traveling in the same direction, motorists must, if it is safe, vacate the lane closest to stopped law enforcement, emergency, sanitation, utility service vehicles, tow trucks, wreckers, maintenance or construction vehicles with flashing lights, as well as any disabled vehicle on the side of the road.

• Drivers should always signal their intention to change lanes and remain aware of surrounding traffic.

• Those already traveling in the far lane are encouraged to allow other vehicles space to move over safely.

• When changing lanes cannot be accomplished safely, or when traveling on a two lane road, drivers are required to reduce their speed. If the posted speed limit is 25 miles per hour or greater, motorists must slow to 20 miles per hour below the posted limit.

• On two lane roads with speed limits of 20 miles per hour or less, drivers must travel at 5 miles per hour while passing the stopped vehicle.

Fire rescue officials stress that these precautions are not optional and are critical to preventing injuries and fatalities.

By moving over when possible and slowing down when necessary, drivers play a direct role in keeping first responders and roadside workers safe while they serve the community.

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