Media post: Things to Know Before you Drive a Car in Florida
Introduction
Florida shares several characteristics with other states, but it also has some unique driving laws that may not apply in other places. The Florida Department of Transportation offers useful details on a variety of subjects, including exit locations, roundabouts, and speed limits. Before driving an automobile in Florida, everyone should be aware of the following.
Valid Driving License
If you’re planning to drive in Florida, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with the state’s driving laws. If you’re a tourist, make sure to carry your international driver’s license along with your regular license, and be aware of any additional requirements or restrictions imposed by Florida law. While an international driver’s license is generally accepted for tourists, it’s crucial to comply with Florida’s specific regulations to ensure a safe and lawful driving experience.
Speed Limits
The speed limit in Florida is 60 mph on other state highways, 65 mph on a four-lane divided highway outside of an urban region (with a population of 5,000 or more), and 70 mph on Interstates.
Driving too Slowly
Driving too slowly might result in a penalty in Florida since it can lead to collisions. Keep your speed within the posted limit and the pace of traffic, being careful not to obstruct other cars moving at regular, safe rates.
Turning Right on a Red Light
If no oncoming traffic is present, there is no sign prohibiting you from turning right at a red light, and you come to a complete stop, turning right at a red light is totally lawful in Florida. You cannot turn right at a stoplight with a red arrow, though.
Seat Belts
No matter where they are seated, all passengers under the age of 18 must be restrained by a safety belt or a child restraint system, including the driver and front-seat passengers. Every child under the age of five must be secured in a suitable child restraint system.
Cell Phones
Although it is legal to chat on a cell phone while driving in Florida, it is not advisable because distracted driving is one of the leading causes of accidents there. When you can, stop your car and pull over if you urgently need to use the phone.
Driving While Intoxicated
Driving while being under the influence of dangerous chemicals or illegal controlled substances, including marijuana, cocaine, methamphetamine, and heroin, is against Florida law if your blood alcohol content is.08 percent or higher. The penalties for driving when intoxicated by alcohol or drugs are usually the same.
Reckless Drivers
Avoid engaging with an aggressive driver who is speeding, cutting off cars, operating a truck in a blind zone, or acting in any other irregular manner because doing so could incite road rage. Instead, make a safe stop and give the eager driver room to pass. If you can, use your cell phone to call *FHP (*347) or 911 as you give the car’s registration plate and/or a brief description.
Pulled Over by the Police
If you are traveling in Florida and the police pull you over, stop as swiftly and safely as you can. You shouldn’t exit the car. Keep driving, roll down the window, and heed their directions.
You must relocate to the far lane or slow down to 20 miles per hour less than the posted speed limit when a police car is stopped to assist a driver or during a routine stop.
Wrong-way Drivers
Call 911 right away to report a driver who is traveling against the flow of traffic and has failed to pay attention to posted traffic signs or pavement markings and is on grace period for expired tags. Reduce your speed and pull off the road right away if a vehicle approaching you is traveling the wrong way.
Parking in Florida
Ensure to park on the right side of the street, no more than one foot from the curb, unless the street is one-way. Florida prohibits parking on the opposite side of the street from another parked car (double parking), on sidewalks, crosswalks, in front of driveways, behind curbs painted yellow, or in areas with “No Parking” signs placed, at crossroads, and in a number of other places. You are required by state law to take your car’s keys out before you leave.
Driving Ages
In Florida, you must be between the ages of 15 and 17 to obtain a learner’s permit. To be qualified for a Class E license, you must be older than 16 and have a driver’s license that was issued after the age of 18. For the entire time you hold a learner’s permit, if you are under the age of 18, you must have a spotless driving record. In Florida, you must be older than 21 to rent an automobile. Young renters’ fees may apply to anyone between the ages of 21 and 24, so be aware of that.
Final Reflections
Before you start your automobile and head out onto the road, be sure to follow the instructions mentioned above. This will safeguard everyone’s safety, including you and others. You may enjoy your time on the road to the utmost by adhering to these.
