Florida has recently revised several traffic safety laws affecting both drivers and pedestrians. According to McClatchy, the new regulations address various driver behaviors, including eating or texting while driving, impose fines for improper vehicle registration, and strengthen penalties for illegal street racing.
A common practice among drivers is eating behind the wheel. While not explicitly banned, driving distractedly can lead to reckless driving charges if an accident occurs. Text messaging is only permitted when the vehicle is completely stationary, such as at a red light, stop sign, or in traffic congestion. Violating this can result in fines.
As of October 1st, Florida has enacted a law modifying vehicle registration and specialty license plate procedures. Driving with an expired plate is illegal. If the registration is less than six months overdue, it is considered a non-criminal traffic infraction, punishable by a fine of up to $500, with the option to pay or appear in court.
The expiration of a vehicle’s registration is determined by the owner's status. For individuals, it expires at midnight on their birthday, but penalties are applied only after the birthday month ends. For businesses, it expires on the last day of the month listed on the registration documents.
Addressing Aggressive Driving
Behaving aggressively toward other drivers, such as shouting or gesturing, is not illegal. However, aggressive driving actions like speeding or failing to yield can result in fines. Reckless actions driven by anger may lead to arrest, fines, or criminal charges.
Starting this year, Florida mandates that drivers slow down and move over for emergency vehicles, with fines up to $158 for non-compliance. Additionally, a 2024 law enhances penalties for participants in illegal street racing, now classified as a third-degree felony with fines up to $4,000.
Licensing Requirements and Safety Concerns
In Florida, individuals can obtain a driver's license at 16, with no upper age limit for driving. However, Class E license renewals impose specific conditions for seniors. Up to age 79, renewal occurs every eight years. From age 80, it is every six years, requiring a vision test if online renewal is not an option.
In early September, a tragic incident occurred when a seven-year-old Florida girl was struck by a 92-year-old driver outside a Coral Gables pharmacy. The driver reportedly mistook the accelerator for the brake, resulting in the fatal accident. Authorities cited her for negligent driving, but it's unclear if further charges will be pursued. The child's father has since advocated for stricter monitoring of elderly drivers.