ORLANDO, Fla. – News 6 traffic safety expert Trooper Steve Montiero answers viewer questions about the rules of the road every week, helping Orlando-area residents become better drivers by being better educated.
Trooper Steve was asked, “Can I drive with a prescribed oxygen tank in the car?”
[TRENDING: Florida lawmakers discuss repealing Disney’s Reedy Creek government | Strong storms on the way | 3-bed, 3-bath, one huge gator: Video shows 12-foot reptile in home | Become a News 6 Insider (it’s free!)]
He said that he understands this type of question well, given the many rules that individuals must follow after being prescribed an oxygen tank by their doctor. However, Trooper Steve said none of those rules stand in the way of one’s ability to drive around with a prescribed oxygen tank.
“There are no laws that prohibit anyone from bringing their prescribed oxygen tank with them while they operate a motor vehicle,” he said. “Obviously, the driver would have to eliminate any and all distractions from this type of device so that they could operate the motor vehicle safely. "
Trooper Steve suggested to properly secure the equipment before setting off on a drive with it.
“Whether it’s in a carrying case or simply a tank on wheels, you want to make sure that this equipment is not moving around in your vehicle,” he said. “Securing it to the floor or to a seat will prevent further injury in case of a crash.”
Additionally, Trooper Steve said that smoking around an oxygen tank is completely out of the question and should never be done in any setting due to the fire risk.