DeLand PD "Educating" Drivers About FL's Move Over Law

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DeLand, FL - The DeLand Police Department has kicked off an awareness campaign to bring attention to the Sunshine State's move-over law.

"This law was enacted to keep our officers and first responders safe," said Police Chief Bill Ridgeway. "We are taking proactive measures to educate the public.

According to Florida State Statute, if an officer or an emergency worker is pulled over on the side of the road, drivers must either move over a lane. If a driver is unable to change lanes then they are required to slow down to 20 miles per hour below the speed limit. If the speed limit is 20 mph or less, drivers must slow down to 5 mph. The law also applies when tow trucks, sanitation trucks,or utility vehicles are working in the area.

Officers have been noticing that drivers who are pulled over for failing to move-over simply aren't aware of the law. Ridgway said officers will be stopping drivers who violate the move-over law to educate them on the rules. Citations for violating the move-over law result in a $166 fine and 3 points are added to the violator's license.

"We hope this is educational for everyone involved and will end up making our roadways safer," said Ridgway.

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