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Florida Takes Tough Stance Against Distracted Driving Accidents

Florida distracted driver on phone.

Drivers in Tampa, FL are reminded to stay focused when behind the wheel.

Distracted driving continues to be a major concern in Florida, with many serious car accidents caused by this dangerous behavior. In response to the issue, the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles has taken a strong stance against distracted driving.

To help combat this problem, the FLHSMV recently launched the "Put It Down: Focus on Driving" campaign, aimed at raising awareness about distracted driving and promoting compliance with Florida's Wireless Communications While Driving Law.

At Armando Personal Injury Law, our Tampa-based attorneys have experience in successfully handling distracted driving cases. Our attorneys fully support this educational initiative by the state. That's because, over the years, we have witnessed firsthand the devastating impact of distracted driving on the lives of our clients who have been injured in these types of crashes.

How bad is distracted driving in Florida?

The severity of distracted driving accidents in Florida cannot be overstated, as it's a fact supported by data from the FLHSMV.

According to FLHSMV accident statistics, thousands of car accidents in Florida are caused by distracted driving every year. In 2022 alone, distracted drivers caused 53,596 collisions, resulting in 2,574 injuries and 268 fatalities. The year before was even worse, with 338 deaths, the highest recorded distracted driving death toll in eight years, as reported in an FLHSMV news release during Distracted Driving Awareness Month.

Colonel Gene S. Spaulding, Director of the Florida Highway Patrol, emphasized the extreme danger of distracted driving on Florida roads. In an FLHSMV interview, Spaulding stated: "FHP wants to remind drivers to keep their hands on the wheel, eyes on the road, and their minds on driving." All drivers must prioritize safety and avoid distractions while driving to prevent tragic accidents on Florida's roadways.

What does Florida do to prevent distracted driving?

The "Put It Down: Focus on Driving" campaign emphasizes the importance of adhering to the state's Wireless Communications While Driving Law. This law, introduced in 2019, grants police officers the authority to pull over drivers caught texting while driving, as outlined in Florida Statute Section 316.305.

Breaking this law can result in a $30 fine for the initial offense and a $60 fine for subsequent violations, in addition to accruing three points on the driver's license. The state's distracted driving legislation also empowers law enforcement to issue citations to motorists who use their cell phones while driving in an active work zone or school crossing zone, as detailed in Florida Statute Section 316.306.

Violating this statute carries a $60 fine and three points on the person's driver's license, even for the first offense.

Hit by a distracted driver in Tampa, fl? Armando personal injury law is here to help.

At first glance, crashes in Florida caused by distracted drivers may seem straightforward. Another driver wasn't paying attention and crashed into your vehicle. Therefore they are responsible for your damages. However, these types of claims and lawsuits can quickly become complex legal cases. Sometimes, the at-fault driver is the issue, while other times, it's their insurance company.

Remember, insurance companies are for-profit businesses, and they may prioritize their financial interests over your own. Having a knowledgeable attorney representing you can ensure that your rights are protected and that you receive the compensation you're entitled to under Florida law.

No matter the circumstances, it is crucial to have an experienced law firm on your side, fighting for your best interests. At Armando Personal Injury Law, our Tampa-based car accident lawyers have the knowledge and experience to guide you through the entire legal process.

If you're seeking a law firm that gets results, look no further. Contact us today to schedule a free case evaluation with one of our Tampa distracted driving accident attorneys, who will be dedicated to winning your case. Our office is located on East 5th Avenue in Tampa, and we work on a contingency fee basis. This means you pay no fees unless we win your case.

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