No one reads the handbook
When is the last time you brushed up on your Florida driving statutes? Probably not recently. While most states have similar rules of the road, drivers should be aware of local laws. In Florida, we have a few that might slip through the cracks, even for long-time residents.
1. Driving too slowly
Driving too slowly can be as dangerous as speeding, and in Florida it can result in a $121 citation. The Florida statute says drivers may not drive so slowly that they impede or block the normal and reasonable movement of traffic, unless reduced speed is necessary for safe operation or required by law.
According to Master Deputy Gregory Rittger of the Orange County Sheriff’s Office, if you are in the far-left lane and another vehicle is trying to overtake you, you cannot remain there. If traffic is passing on your right, that can be a problem.
2. The move over law
In Florida, drivers on a highway are required to move over one lane when approaching an emergency or law enforcement vehicle parked on the side of the road. The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles states that if you cannot safely move over, you must slow down to 20 MPH below the posted speed limit unless directed otherwise by law enforcement.
On a two-lane roadway, drivers are required to slow to a speed that is 20 miles per hour below the posted speed limit. If the speed limit is 20 miles per hour or less, drivers must slow down to five miles per hour.
3. Texting while driving
Texting while driving is now a primary offense in Florida. We wrote about this in May 2019 when Governor DeSantis passed the law.
A first offense comes with a $30 fine and no points added to your driving record. Second and subsequent offenses within five years bring a $60 fine and three points added to your driving record.
According to Florida Today, police officers can only stop a driver for texting while the vehicle is in motion. Officers cannot stop someone for texting at a stop light or toll booth, though a driver could still be cited for impeding traffic if they are supposed to be moving and are distracted by their phone.
4. Tolls that don’t accept cash
The Miami section of the Florida Turnpike is all electronic and does not accept cash. SunPass or Toll-By-Plate are the only payment options. The same applies for several other areas, including:
- Mid-Bay Connector in Destin
- Veterans Expressway in Tampa
- Selman Expressway in Tampa
- Sawgrass Expressway in Fort Lauderdale
- Exit 49 / Hollywood Boulevard in Broward County
- Exit 53 / Griffin Road in Broward County
- Exit 62 / Commercial Boulevard in Broward County
- Milepost 63 / Cypress Creek Mainline Toll Plaza in Broward County
- Exit 67 / Coconut Creek Parkway in Broward County
- Exit 69 / Sample Road in Broward County
Learn more at Visit Florida.
5. Driving hours for teens
Drivers who are 15 years old and accompanied by a licensed driver 21 years or older can only drive during the day for the first three months. After that, driving hours are extended to 10 PM.
Drivers who are 16 years old can drive between 6 AM and 11 PM. Drivers who are 17 years old can drive between 5 AM and 1 AM.
Now what?
Be wise. Drive defensively and keep your eyes on the road. Don’t text. Move over if someone is riding your tail. Be aware of your surroundings, and know where you’re going before you get in the car.