News

2019

Florida Highway Patrol Encourages the Gift of Safe Travel

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~Florida Highway Patrol participating in Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over Dec. 11, 2019 – Jan. 1, 2020~

Give the gift of Safety - Never Drive Impaired

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – During this holiday season, the Florida Highway Patrol joins law enforcement across the nation cracking down on impaired driving by sharing the message: Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over. The enforcement campaign runs from December 11, 2019, through January 1, 2020.

“Florida Highway Patrol troopers and law enforcement officers statewide are trained to spot the signs of impaired driving, and will be out in force this holiday season,” said Colonel Gene S. Spaulding, Director of the Florida Highway Patrol. “Impairment can cause drowsiness, an inability to react appropriately in simple situations, and a false sense of alertness. Please make good decisions and Arrive Alive this holiday season. Never drive impaired.”

Preliminary data shows that last December there were 549 alcohol impaired driving crashes, which was the most for any month in 2018, as well as 57 drug impaired and 34 alcohol and drug impaired crashes in Florida. To help ensure your safety, the Florida Highway Patrol will be out in force on the highways to aid motorists and remove drivers from the road. FHP Auxiliary troopers will also volunteer to augment the FHP during the holiday period. The FHP’s increased presence throughout Florida helps to deter traffic violations and enhance services to motorists who need assistance while traveling.

To make sure you get to your holiday destination and back home safely, FHP has the following travel tips:

  • Every time you get in a vehicle, no matter where you are sitting, buckle up.
  • Never drive impaired. Don’t get behind the wheel if you have been drinking or took drugs that cause impairment.
  • Let your passengers help you navigate or change the music. Don’t drive distracted. Keep your hands on the wheel, eyes on the road and mind on driving.
  • Make sure you get enough rest before you drive. Stop to take a break every 100 miles or two hours.
  • Move over for stopped emergency, sanitation, utility service vehicles and wreckers when it is safe to do so.
  • Be aware of the speed limit and adjust accordingly. In Florida, the limit will never be higher than 70 mph.

The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles wishes everyone a happy and safe holiday!

Visit FLHSMV’s website for more information and resources for the Distracted Driving Awareness Month campaign. The public is encouraged to report dangerous and drunk drivers by dialing *FHP (*347) or 911.

The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) provides highway safety and security through excellence in service, education and enforcement. FL is leading the way to A Safer Florida through the efficient and professional execution of its core mission: the issuance of driver licenses, vehicle tags and titles and operation of the Florida Highway Patrol. To learn more about FLHSMV and the services offered, visit https://www.flhsmv.gov, follow us on Twitter @FLHSMV, find us on Facebook or follow us on Instagram.

This year, the FLHSMV celebrates its 50th anniversary and its Division of the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) commemorates its 80th year. Learn more at flhsmv.gov/behindthedrive.