Driving in Florida can be an enjoyable experience, whether you’re cruising down scenic coastal highways or navigating the state’s vibrant cities. However, like every state, Florida has its own set of traffic laws that drivers must follow. Understanding these laws is crucial not only for your safety but also to avoid fines, penalties, and potential legal trouble.
If you find yourself involved in a serious accident related to a traffic violation, it’s always a good idea to consult with a Bradenton car accident attorney to understand your rights and navigate the legal system effectively.
Florida’s No-Fault Insurance System
Florida operates under a no-fault insurance system, which means that after an accident, each driver’s own insurance pays for their medical bills and other accident-related expenses, regardless of who caused the crash. All Florida drivers are required to carry at least $10,000 in Personal Injury Protection (PIP) and $10,000 in Property Damage Liability (PDL) coverage.
Key takeaways:
- You must carry proof of insurance while driving.
- After an accident, you typically cannot sue the other driver unless the injuries are severe, such as permanent disability or disfigurement.
Seat Belt Laws
Florida has strict seat belt laws designed to protect drivers and passengers. These laws require:
- Front-seat passengers to wear seat belts at all times.
- All passengers under 18 years old must wear seat belts, regardless of where they are seated.
- Children under 5 years old must be secured in a child restraint device, such as a car seat.
Violating Florida’s seat belt laws can result in a fine, and drivers are responsible for ensuring that all passengers follow these regulations.
Speed Limits in Florida
Speed limits in Florida vary depending on the type of road and location. Drivers should be aware of the following general speed limits:
- Interstate highways: 70 mph
- Rural highways: 60 mph
- Urban areas: 30 mph to 45 mph (varies by location)
- School zones: 20 mph when active
Speed limits are strictly enforced in Florida, and exceeding them can lead to hefty fines, points on your license, or even suspension of driving privileges.
Texting While Driving Is Prohibited
In Florida, texting while driving is illegal. Florida has classified this as a primary offense, meaning law enforcement can pull you over if they suspect you’re texting while driving. This law includes sending emails, instant messages, and other forms of typing on an electronic device.
Exceptions to this rule include:
- Using your phone for GPS navigation (as long as the address is input while the vehicle is stationary).
- Using the phone in a hands-free mode.
To avoid distractions and potential fines, it’s best to stay off your phone while driving.
Move Over Law
Florida’s Move Over Law requires drivers to move over or slow down when approaching an emergency vehicle, tow truck, sanitation vehicle, or utility service vehicle that is stopped on the side of the road with flashing lights.
Here’s what you need to do:
- Move over a lane if possible.
- If moving over is not safe, slow down to 20 mph below the posted speed limit or reduce your speed to 5 mph if the speed limit is 20 mph or lower.
This law is designed to protect first responders and workers who are helping others on the roadside. Failing to comply can result in fines and points on your license.
Right on Red
In Florida, you are generally allowed to turn right on red, but there are important conditions:
- You must come to a complete stop before making the turn.
- You must yield to any oncoming traffic and pedestrians.
- If there is a “No Turn on Red” sign, you are prohibited from making the turn.
Being cautious at intersections is crucial to avoiding accidents and penalties. Always check for signs that may restrict your right turn on red.
Traffic Camera Laws
Florida allows the use of traffic cameras to enforce red-light violations in certain jurisdictions. If you are caught running a red light by one of these cameras, you could receive a ticket in the mail.
Important points about traffic cameras:
- Red-light cameras are often placed at high-traffic intersections to prevent accidents.
- If you receive a ticket from a traffic camera, you have the right to dispute it.
- Fines for red-light camera violations typically range from $158 to $277, depending on the circumstances.
DUI Laws in Florida
Driving under the influence (DUI) of alcohol or drugs is a serious offense in Florida. The state has strict penalties for drivers caught with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.08% or higher.
Penalties for a DUI conviction may include:
- Fines starting at $500 for a first offense
- License suspension for 6 months or more
- Mandatory DUI school and community service
- Potential jail time, especially for repeat offenders or those with a BAC of 0.15% or higher
Florida also has an Implied Consent Law, which means that by driving, you automatically consent to a breath, urine, or blood test if suspected of driving under the influence. Refusing to take the test can result in an automatic license suspension.
Bicycle and Pedestrian Safety Laws
Florida is one of the top states for bicycle and pedestrian accidents, so it’s important to be aware of the laws designed to protect these vulnerable road users:
- Bicyclists must obey the same traffic laws as vehicles, and they are required to use bike lanes where available.
- Drivers must provide at least three feet of space when passing bicyclists on the road.
- Pedestrians should use crosswalks whenever possible, and drivers must yield to pedestrians in crosswalks.
Understanding and following these laws is essential for ensuring everyone’s safety, especially in busy urban areas or tourist spots where foot and bike traffic is high.
Points System and License Suspension
Florida operates on a points system for traffic violations. If you accumulate too many points within a certain period, your driver’s license can be suspended.
Here’s how the points system works:
- 12 points in 12 months = License suspension for 30 days
- 18 points in 18 months = License suspension for 3 months
- 24 points in 36 months = License suspension for 1 year
Each traffic violation is assigned a specific number of points. For example, speeding can add 3 to 6 points to your record, while running a red light adds 4 points.
Conclusion
Driving in Florida requires knowledge of the state’s traffic laws to ensure the safety of you, your passengers, and other road users. By understanding and following these rules, you can avoid fines, accidents, and potential legal issues. Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, being aware of Florida’s traffic laws can help make your driving experience safer and more enjoyable.