Stranded on I-4? Discover the Unexpected Timeline and Essential Steps to Get Back on the Road

ORLANDO, Fla. – News 6’s traffic safety specialist, Trooper Steve, addresses viewer inquiries and offers guidance on road regulations to help drivers in Central Florida enhance their driving skills through better knowledge.

On Tuesday, Trooper Steve tackled an inquiry: “My car stalled on I-4 and is currently parked on the shoulder, safely out of the way. How much time do I have before it could be towed?”

Those familiar with I-4 understand that this highway doesn’t take delays lightly.

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To clarify, let’s examine Florida’s legal stance. According to Florida Statute 316.194, a vehicle is deemed abandoned if left unattended on a public road or right-of-way. Specifically, a vehicle parked within 30 feet of the roadway and left for more than 48 hours is subject to removal under abandonment regulations.

But here’s the part that surprises a lot of people.

That 48-hour guideline does not give you protection on an interstate like I-4.

Interstates and other limited-access highways are treated differently because of safety. The shoulder isn’t a parking spot, it’s an emergency lane. Disabled vehicles on high-speed roadways are one of the biggest contributors to secondary crashes, which is why Florida Highway Patrol and FDOT have the authority to act quickly.

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If your vehicle is unattended on the shoulder of I-4, it can be towed immediately if it’s determined to be a safety concern. There doesn’t need to be a countdown clock or a warning tag first.

So, what should you do if your car breaks down on I-4? Turn on your hazard lights right away. Call for help immediately. If it’s safe to do so, stay with the vehicle or accept assistance from Road Rangers or law enforcement. Leaving the car and planning to “come back later” is often how people return to an empty shoulder.

Big takeaway: while Florida law does outline timeframes for abandoned vehicles, I-4 plays by safety rules first.

If you leave it, don’t assume it will still be there when you get back. That tow truck usually shows up faster than you think.