What Are Florida's Distracted Driving Laws?

What Are Florida’s Distracted Driving Laws?

On Behalf of Rosenthal, Levy, Simon & Sosa | September 24, 2023 | Car Accidents

Distracted driving is among the most common causes of serious motor vehicle crashes in the U.S. In Florida alone, 54,680 distracted driving crashes occurred in 2022, and these crashes resulted in 2,651 serious injuries and 272 fatalities. Despite what most people think, it is just impossible for the human brain to focus on various tasks simultaneously, and this is especially true when operating a motor vehicle while doing something else.

Let’s say a driver is texting or eating while driving. In this situation, their brain must constantly switch between driving and eating, which means they can’t focus on driving consistently. This is how distracted driving crashes occur.

Distracted Driving Laws in Florida

Under Florida’s distracted driving laws, it is illegal for motorists to:

• Use wireless communication devices for sending, writing, or reading a text message, which includes email and instant messages. Wireless communication devices include cell phones, tablets, and other devices that can be used to connect to the Internet and for text-based communications.
• Use handheld wireless communication devices while driving a motor vehicle in a school crossing, school zone, or construction area.

There are, however, certain exceptions. Florida’s distracted driving laws do not apply to the following:

• Using voice-operated or hands-free devices
• Emergency services personnel, such as police officers and medical professionals, conducting their official duties
• People using wireless devices for reporting a crime or emergency
• Using GPS devices, provided that they’re hands-free if in school or construction areas
• Receiving safety or navigation-related information, such as traffic or weather alerts

Driver distraction comes in three main forms:

1. Manual distraction is when you take your hands off the steering wheel.
2. Visual distraction is when you take your eyes off the roadway.
3. Cognitive distraction is when you’re thinking about something else instead of just operating the vehicle.

Any of these distractions can lead to a serious motor vehicle crash. The most common types of distractions involved in crashes are:

• Taking calls or texting using a cell phone while driving
• Using tablets or other electronic devices
• Using or tinkering with handheld GPS devices
• Speaking to passengers
• Grooming
• Tending to children
• Drinking or eating
• Daydreaming
• Tinkering with the radio
• Rubbernecking
• Reaching for stuff on the floor or at the back

Consult With a Port St. Lucie Distracted Driving Accident Lawyer Now

At Rosenthal, Levy, Simon & Sosa, we know all about the tragic and painful consequences distracted driving crashes can cause. Our Port St. Lucie distracted driving accident lawyers have handled various accident claims resulting from distracted driving and know exactly how we can help. We will help you seek justice for your losses throughout the entire insurance and legal process, hold the negligent driver liable for their actions, ensure that you receive the best settlement possible, and take your case to court if needed.

Let our Port St. Lucie distracted driving accident lawyer fight for you to secure the compensation you deserve when a distracted driving crash upends your life. Schedule your free case review with our Port St. Lucie distracted driving accident lawyer by calling 866-640-7117 or completing our email form.