Visiting Florida Safely: Tips for The Holidays

It’s about that time when many begin traveling south to see family to celebrate together. Visiting Florida is truly an adventure filled with warmer weather, theme parks, inviting beaches, and vibrant cultural influence. However, during your visit to the Sunshine State, it’s essential to know and follow Florida’s driving laws. This ensures road rule adherence and enjoying your trip visiting Florida safely for the holidays. In this blog, we’ll provide valuable information on laws, guidelines, and necessary road safety tips for visitors. As we cover this topic, we’ll also show the importance of consulting with a Florida accident attorney in case of unforeseen accidents or legal issues.

Florida’s Roadway Laws & Regulations to Educate Yourself on Inside the Vehicle:

The first thing you must do is familiarize yourself with the state’s driving laws before hitting Florida’s roads. Each of these laws is in place to safeguard the well-being of all road users, including you as you visit our state! Take note of these key aspects to keep yourself within the limits of Florida Law by these things inside the vehicle:

1. Use Those Seat Belts:

Be forewarned that we have firm laws in place regarding seat belt use. Simply put, they save lives and limit the amount of bodily harm for those who use them. First off, any person in the front seat must wear their seat belt, with no exceptions. It is also necessary for anyone under the age of 18, regardless of where they are seated in the vehicle. So click it, or a ticket is sure to come your way!

2. Avoid Wireless Communications While Driving:

Another hard stance here in Florida is texting while driving. It is actually illegal in the Sunshine State to operate a motor vehicle while manually typing. This includes entering letters, numbers, or symbols into a wireless communications device to text, email, and instant message. Put the phone down and keep your eyes on the road to avoid distractions, especially in unfamiliar areas.

3. Don’t Drive While Under The Influence:

Please be aware that driving under the influence (DUI) of alcohol or drugs is a severe offense in Florida. The legal blood alcohol content (BAC) limit is 0.08%, and penalties for DUI can be severe. You wouldn’t want to have to call a criminal attorney if you’re caught committing this crime!

Florida’s Roadway Laws & Regulations Pertaining to Outside the Vehicle:

Much like those inside the car, each of these laws is in place to safeguard roadway users Take note of these key aspects to keep yourself within the limits of Florida Law by these things outside the vehicle:

1. Follow Traffic Lights, Signals, and Signage:

These should be a no-brainer in knowing how to look at, understand, and operate according to traffic lights, signals, and signs. They are not suggestive or optional! Failing to do so can lead to accidents, injury, and often legal trouble.

2. Move Over For Emergency Vehicles:

With a booming population and tourist industry comes the need for first responders and facilities to care for them in case of emergencies! You will likely encounter law enforcement vehicles and the occasional ambulance with their lights and sirens on. You must slow down and move out of the way of these vehicles while operating on a call to help those in need. As quickly and safely as possible, reduce your speed and pull over to the nearest shoulder.

3. Obey Speed Limits:

This one should be a given, but Florida’s speed limits vary depending on the roadway and location. Be sure to adhere to posted speed limits and drive at a safe speed according to the road and weather conditions. If you don’t see signage anywhere, it’s better to drive slower than you think you should. It’s always better to be safe than sorry!

Visiting in Florida Safely: Important Tips To Keep In Mind

Being informed and aware is the best way to experience a vacation, regardless of where you are. This ensures a safe and enjoyable experience on Florida’s roads. In order to visit and drive with care, consider following these road safety tips:

1. Map Out Your Route in Advance:

We surely have come a long way since MapQuest’s days! Before starting your journey, use GPS or maps to plan your route. Familiarize yourself with the roads, highways, and any potential traffic issues. Take note of any landmarks or businesses along your route to be at ease with the route.

2. Avoid Rush Hours:

This one will save you a lot of stress and frustration! Try to avoid heading out on your trips during the morning and evening peak hours to reduce the chances of getting stuck in traffic. This includes the work commute hours of 8-10 am and 4-6 pm. The more people on the road, the higher the chances of accidents and other people’s poor driving that puts you and your family at risk.

3. Be Wary of Weather:

Welcome to Florida, where our weather is highly unpredictable and changes quickly. If you find yourself in a flash thunderstorm, slow down and increase your following distance as the downpour is heavy. Also, be sure to travel cautiously in foggy conditions. Another common occurrence in the late summer months is hurricanes. Monitor weather reporting apps and news to see if it’s safe to even be on the road at all.

4. Keep Eyes on Pedestrians:

Featuring booming attractions and a robust tourist industry, Florida has many pedestrian-friendly areas peppered around the state. Due to their prevalence, be sure to keep an eye out for those near the roadways, especially in crosswalks and pedestrian zones. Depending on where you’re visiting from, be aware that Florida’s pedestrians nearly always have the right of way. Do your best to always yield to them, for their safety and your legal responsibility.

5. Prevent Road Rage:

Violence is never the answer and it’s important to keep your cool! Maintain a calm demeanor and practice patience when driving in Florida. Aggressive driving can lead to accidents, legal issues, and altercations. Don’t put yourself, your family, or your record at risk by driving offensively.

Your Orlando Accident Attorneys

After following these tips and educating yourself on the laws, you’re sure to enjoy your time visiting Florida. Our roads offer the chance to explore the natural beauty, see loved ones, and visit attractions. Even though you may have followed our list and were aware of these precautions, accidents happen to everyone! If you do find yourself in an accident or legal issue while driving and visiting Florida, consult with our Orlando accident attorneys. We provide legal advice, grant insight into issues, represent you if needed, and ensure your rights are protected. Safe travels!

The Martindale Law Group

Our personal injury and litigation attorneys help accident victims file claims to recover damages for many types of clients. Some that we specialize in are auto accidents, motorcycle accidents, truck accidents, wrongful death, aircraft accidents, boating accidents, sexual abuse, and brain and spinal cord injuries. Additionally, we provide legal services to the residents of Florida who receive unfair treatment from their insurance companies. It does not matter whether an insurance claim has been denied, delayed, or mishandled. We help our clients obtain the insurance coverage they need to repair their property. Whether an injury by an auto accident, slip-and-fall, or some other incident due to the negligence of others, contact us today. We are more than happy to discuss your case, call now for a free case evaluation.