Florida Motor Vehicle Laws Aren't Enough to Keep Drivers Safe

Motor vehicle laws are meant to help drivers, passengers, and pedestrians stay safe each day. Yet, each state sets forth its own laws and the range of what is enforceable and not varies widely from state to state.

Florida was one of 13 states that recently received a “red” or “poor” rating from the group Advocates for Highway and Auto Safety (AHAS) in its 2018 Roadmap Report. The group looks at how many of 16 fundamental traffic safety laws have been adopted by each state. States that have enacted less than seven laws and be without both front and rear primary enforcement seat belt laws received “poor” ratings. Florida currently has five of the laws enacted:

Primary enforcement front seat belt;
Six-month holding period provision for teen drivers;
50 hours of supervised driving provision for teen drivers;
Child endangerment for impaired drivers; and
Open container law for impaired drivers.

The Orlando motorcycle accident attorneys at 911 Biker Law want all drivers, passengers, and pedestrians to stay safe. That's why we want to share these four tips for all drivers to use when driving or riding on Florida's roadways.

Only Use A Cell Phone When Necessary

Though Florida doesn't have any bans on using a cell phone to talk while driving, the Orlando motorcycle accident lawyers with 911 Biker Law discourage it. Talking while driving is still considered distracted driving as it takes your full attention from the task of driving. Only use a cell phone when absolutely necessary and then, if possible, pull over to a rest area to make or take the call.

Never Text While Driving/Riding

It doesn’t matter whether the driver is inexperienced or not, texting while driving –– or riding –– is a deadly combination. When a driver sends or reads a text while driving, on average their eyes leave the road for 4.6 seconds. They’re essentially driving blind the length of a football field for that amount of time. In Florida, it's illegal for all drivers to text while driving, and the phone can be used during crash data collection.

Always Wear A Helmet

Florida doesn’t have a mandatory helmet law, provided the rider is over 21-years-old and carries at least $10,000 of medical payment insurance. But, the Orlando accident attorneys with 911 Biker Law strongly encourage every rider to wear a helmet. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration in 2017, 109 motorcycle-related deaths in Florida were preventable if the rider had worn a helmet.

Always Use A Seat Belt

It’s more than a marketing slogan –– seat belts save lives. The 2018 Roadmap Report by AHAS found passengers riding in the back seat are three times more likely to die in a crash than those who are buckled up. Don’t wait for a state to mandate seat belt use by all passengers, it’s a good habit to already have to be a safe driver.

Accident Attorney In Orlando

Safe driving and riding goes beyond any state law. There are many ways drivers and passengers can lessen the chance of injury during an accident, such as wearing a seat belt and a helmet. But if you or a loved one are injured, contact an accident attorney in Orlando with 911 Biker Law. Our firm consists of motorcycle enthusiasts who happen to practice law and strive to help other motorcyclists after an accident. Contact us today to discuss your case.

U.S. Motor Vehicle Laws