Page 14 - Edgewood 1 2019

NEW FLORIDA DRIVING LAWS
New driving regulations have taken force in Florida
Story and photos by Kennedy Robbins and Maisa Doan
Roads are more dangerous with drivers texting and driving so the state of Florida put in a new law.
Everyone knows texting and driving is a safety hazard, but many people still do it. Approximately 3,000 people die every year due to distracted driving; since it has become such a problem, recently a new law has been passed to prevent drivers from using their phones while driving.
The previous law would allow the officer to ticket the driver only if the driver was committing another offense at the same time; for instance, swerving on the road or speeding. However, the new law, in effect since July 1, allows officers to pull over drivers if they think it looks like the driver is texting, with no additional reason required.
If caught, The drivers can face fines from $30-$100, plus the cost of court proceedings (which can cost up to $119). The law does not apply if the car is at a stop or if the phone is being used to navigate. Drivers may also use their phone for safety alerts, to make a phone call, or to report an emergency. Although the law does not apply at stoplights, many feel that drivers should not have
their phones out at all while driving. Even glancing at the phone for a second could cause an accident. Eighty-eight percent of people use their phone in some way while driving. Interestingly, however, 94% of drivers support the new driving laws. The new laws and increased penalties will hopefully make drivers more aware of the
dangers of distracted driving
“I think that it’s a good idea that
they enforce it,” says Deputy Jackie. Violation of the new law (starting Oct. 1st) in school or work zones will result in a $169 fine plus an extra three points on your license. If you get 12 points on your license, your license is automatically suspended. A texting ticket can also increase your insurance rate by an average of 23% or $346 a year. If a car crash occurs, a police officer can get a search warrant to see if texting and driving
caused the accident.
Students are among the most
at risk for accidents, especially those caused by distracted driving. therefore, Deputy Jackie thinks that there will be kids that might violate this new law even though she hasn’t had any encounters with students violating the law yet.
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