As of January 1st it is no longer illegal in the state of Florida to warn other drivers of speeding traps by flickering your high beams. Over the past seven years, approximately 10,000 Floridians have been cited for warning other drivers of upcoming speeding traps. As a result, these drivers would typically receive a fine of up to $175. However, this law has been abandoned by the state, essentially evening the playing field for drivers.
The Fort Lauderdale and Weston areas often have many speed traps set up along side roads and local highways. Police officers often set up their cars behind signs or underneath overpasses in an attempt to catch those speeding on the roadway.
While this technique is useful in assisting police catching negligent, speeding motor vehicle operators, many believe it is unfair to set up traps. As a result, motorists will often warn others of upcoming speed traps by flickering their high beams in an attempt to warn other drivers of the police car they are approaching. As a result of this new Florida law, drivers must no longer fear penalty as a result of participating in this practice.
Although this new law relinquishes a policeman’s ability to cite a motorist for warning others of traps, those who travel on Florida’s highways should always to use due care and avoid speeding. Speeding on the highway creates a large risk of a collision occurring and must be avoided at all costs. It is important to always leave ample time to get to where you are going in order to avoid the need to speed.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, speeding is involved in about one of every three fatal collisions. Furthermore, speeding is the third leading contributing factor to traffic crashes. Speeding is seen as one of the most difficult things to regulate amongst all causes of automobile collisions. The most common reasons given for speeding are: (1) the driver is in a hurry (2) the driver is being inattentive (3) drivers do not take traffic laws seriously (they do not think the laws apply to them) (4) drivers do not view speeding as dangerous (5) drivers do not expect to get caught and (6) some portion of all of the above listed reasons.
As a result of speeding over 13,000 lives are lost each year. While some drivers are rejoicing over Florida cutting out a law which made it illegal to warn others of speeding traps, it is important that all drivers understand the risks associated with speeding and avoid doing so at all costs.
The Schulman Law Group has helped thousands of car accident personal injury victims and has obtained millions of dollars in compensation for them. We have the experience and the resources to assist you and your family through each of the difficulties you may face and will work hard to obtain the most compensation for each of our clients.
In most cases, we will get your lost wages, medical bills, property damage and other related costs reimbursed to you without charging any fee. We will take over the burden of exclusively dealing with your own insurance company. Even if you are not sure if you were at fault, please consult with us immediately.
