From the Florida Department of Transportation
The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) aims to reduce the risk of speed-related crashes by leveraging the use of enhanced enforcement of speed limits and public safety messaging about the dangers of speeding. In partnership with the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) and its division of the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP), FDOT’s efforts, including participating in their annual Operation Southern Slow Down that took place in July, are part of a broader initiative involving its counterpart transportation and law enforcement organizations in Alabama, Georgia, South Carolina, and Tennessee.
“Florida’s transportation system is meticulously engineered to maximize safety – it’s woven into every design plan, every education campaign, and every traffic safety law enforced by our law enforcement partners,” said Florida Department of Transportation Secretary Jared W. Perdue, P.E. “We encourage communities to join our efforts in creating a safer transportation future by recognizing the risks of unsafe driving behaviors, like speeding.”
“Through increased enforcement and proactive education, FHP and our partners are working across state lines to save lives and move closer to our shared vision of zero traffic deaths," said Florida Highway Patrol Colonel Gary Howze II.
Unsafe driving behaviors, such as speeding and aggression, continue to serve as the primary factor in all traffic crashes and their resulting fatalities and serious injuries across Florida. According to FLHSMV data, these behaviors in particular contributed to 437 fatalities (13 percent) of all traffic fatalities in Florida in 2023.
Through various campaigns, Florida takes a dual approach of targeting driver behavior through heightened enforcement efforts and public safety messaging. Driven to reach Florida’s goal of reducing traffic-related fatalities and serious injuries to zero, the enforcement and education partnership between FDOT and its law enforcement counterparts plays a critical role in creating lasting changes in driver behavior and will contribute to the vision of a safer, fatality-free future across Florida.
To encourage responsible behaviors on Florida’s roadways, here are some safety reminders:
- Never drive under the influence of alcohol, marijuana, or other impairing substances.
- Buckle up for every trip and ensure all passengers wear safety belts.
- Remain alert and always drive with caution – put away all distractions, like cell phones, every time you get behind the wheel.
- Practice patience and maintain a safe distance from other vehicles.
- Plan your route in advance on FL511.com and allow extra time for traffic during peak travel times.
- Allow more stopping time if driving a larger vehicle, especially on wet pavement.
- Remember to reduce speed in construction zones to enhance road safety.
- If you witness aggressive driving, contact local law enforcement by dialing *FHP (*347) or 911.
