Jacksonville, January 23, 2026
Jacksonville Electric Authority highlights the importance of Florida’s Move Over Law during Move Over Month, urging drivers to ensure safety for roadside workers. The law mandates vacating or slowing down near stopped vehicles with flashing lights to protect utility workers and emergency responders from potential dangers. Recent incidents have demonstrated the dire need for compliance, underscoring the collective responsibility of the community to prioritize safety on the road.
Jacksonville Urges Drivers to Follow Move Over Law for Safety
Increased awareness for roadside safety is crucial for protecting lives.
Jacksonville, Florida – As January rolls in, Jacksonville Electric Authority (JEA) is spotlighting the importance of Florida’s Move Over Law during the state’s Move Over Month. This initiative comes as a timely reminder for drivers to prioritize safety on the roads, particularly for those working on the side of the highway. The law mandates that motorists either vacate the lane closest to stopped vehicles or significantly reduce their speed when approaching any vehicle with flashing lights—be it utility trucks, emergency responders, or roadside service vehicles.
The urgency of this message has been underscored by recent incidents where drivers disregarded the Move Over Law, leading to potentially dangerous situations for utility workers. JEA crew leader Brandon Barr, who has dedicated 18 years to serving Jacksonville, emphasized that staying alert and moving over is critical to safeguarding those who work on our roads. As the city continues to grow, so does the need for improved road safety measures that protect workers and drivers alike.
Understanding the Move Over Law
Florida’s Move Over Law is straightforward, yet vital for roadside safety. It requires drivers to take two primary actions:
- On multi-lane roads: Drivers must vacate the lane closest to the stopped vehicle when it is safe to do so. If changing lanes isn’t feasible, the law requires them to reduce their speed to 20 mph below the posted speed limit.
- On two-lane roads: Drivers must slow down to 20 mph below the posted speed limit when passing a stopped vehicle displaying flashing lights.
Potential Consequences of Non-Compliance
Adhering to the Move Over Law is not just a matter of courtesy; it is legally mandated. Non-compliance can lead to fines and points added to a driver’s record, which could also affect car insurance rates. Ensuring compliance not only keeps the workers safe but supports law enforcement in maintaining road safety in our communities.
The Importance of Roadside Safety
The emphasis on roadside safety extends beyond compliance—it reflects a commitment to protecting the livelihoods of those who perform essential services. Utility crews and emergency responders face daily risks while carrying out their duties, especially in a bustling city like Jacksonville where traffic can be unpredictable. The Move Over Law is an important tool to mitigate those risks and can prevent potentially tragic accidents.
Community Engagement is Key
It is essential for the Jacksonville community to engage with initiatives aimed at promoting safety. Public awareness campaigns have proven effective in illustrating the need for responsible driving behaviors. Communities are encouraged to share their experiences and stories, fostering a culture of mutual respect on the roads and empowering residents to advocate for safety measures.
Staying Vigilant on the Roads
The JEA, along with local law enforcement and emergency services, is making a concerted effort to remind drivers to remain vigilant. The campaign not only serves to educate but also aims to cultivate personal accountability among drivers. As the community continues to grow, so does the demand for a collective responsibility towards safety on roadways to protect every worker’s life as well as every driver’s responsibility.
Key Takeaways
The message is clear: as we embrace the new year, Jacksonville must work together to adhere to the Move Over Law. By doing so, we can contribute to filling the gaps in roadside safety as we simultaneously show appreciation for those whose work is vital for our city’s infrastructure. Let’s all pledge to make a conscious effort to move over and reduce speed when necessary—because every life matters.
Engage with this initiative; let’s cultivate a safer Jacksonville for all. Remember, it only takes one extra lane change to make a difference!
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is Florida’s Move Over Law?
- The Move Over Law requires drivers to change lanes or reduce speed when approaching stopped vehicles with flashing lights, including utility trucks, emergency vehicles, and roadside service vehicles.
- What should I do when I see a stopped vehicle with flashing lights on the side of the road?
- On multi-lane roads, vacate the lane closest to the stopped vehicle as soon as it’s safe. If unable to do so, reduce speed to 20 mph below the posted limit. On two-lane roads, slow down to 20 mph below the posted limit when passing a stopped vehicle with flashing lights.
- What are the penalties for violating the Move Over Law?
- Violating the Move Over Law can result in fines and points on your driving record.
- Why is the Move Over Law important?
- The law is designed to protect workers on the roadside, including utility crews and emergency responders, by reducing the risk of collisions with passing vehicles.
| Key Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Law Requirement | Drivers must change lanes or reduce speed when approaching stopped vehicles with flashing lights. |
| Penalties | Fines and points on your driving record. |
| Importance | Protects workers on the roadside, including utility crews and emergency responders. |
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