Florida drivers definitely have their own culture when it comes to the rules of the road. We’re breaking down what you need to know to be an attentive and alert driver in the Sunshine State.
Though we hate to admit it, Florida scores high for accidents and distracted driving. We’re ranked the third most dangerous state in the country when it comes to driving, behind California and Texas. Most of these accidents can be attributed to speeding.
To make matters worse, we are ranked second in the country when it comes to distracted driving, behind Louisiana. According to the Florida Highway Patrol, there are approximately five distracted driving accidents in our state every single hour of the day.
Our most dangerous roadway is our stretch of I-95. Nearly one third of all fatal crashes in the state of Florida occur on I-95, so make sure you are driving carefully! According to a South Florida Sun Sentinel investigation of the highway conducted in 2020, there are fewer state troopers on the road than there were 20 years ago – making this highway increasingly lawless. Speed limits are less enforced, making dangerous incidents more likely.
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If Florida drivers are known for speeding, being distracted, and nasty on the road – how can you stay safe and alert when you hit the road? Here are some quick reminders of how to drive well in Florida:
- Don’t get distracted! Please do not text, email or scroll through social media while you’re driving. This is incredibly dangerous! While the law in Florida does allow you to talk on handheld devices, it is actually illegal to use a handheld device in a school or construction zone while workers are present.
- Don’t speed. Remember that red light cameras are legal and used in cities including Pembroke Pines and Boynton Beach. Tickets are over $150 – so if safety isn’t a big enough incentive, think of the fine! Obey the speed limit.
- Don’t engage with a nasty driver. Rather than flip the bird, take down the license plate and call the police or Florida Highway Patrol at *347 to report the issue.
- Be patient and kind. Don’t cut off other vehicles, leave some room when changing lanes, and be your best self on the road!
We hope that being aware of the dangers of Florida’s drivers will make you the most attentive, alert and safe driver possible!
Should you find yourself in a car accident, please reach out to Boca Raton car accident law firm Willis Law today for support or give us a call at 561-599-7300.