What’s one of your most essential possessions?
Simple answer: your car.
You use your car to get everywhere and do everything if you don’t live in a municipal area with excellent public transportation. There simply isn’t another option.
Given as much time as you spend in your car every day, it’s important that you make sure that you stay safe while driving. Whether you’re adhering to the move over law or following the speed limit, it’s crucial that you employ all of the safe driving practices that you can.
Florida has a reputation for having a bunch of crazy drivers and thus, dangerous roads. If you’re making a visit to Florida, or moving to the state, and are a little nervous about driving in the area, don’t be!
All you need to do is start utilizing these safe driving tips to protect yourself.
Adhere to the Move Over Law
Florida has a move over law. For those who are unfamiliar with the concept, this is not about having to move over in the left lane for someone going faster than you (although that is a safe driving practice too!). Instead, the move over law is with regard to stopped emergency vehicles.
Whenever you see a stopped emergency vehicle on the side of the road, you are legally required to move one lane over. So if you’re on a three-lane interstate, and you see a tow truck and a police officer pulled over on the shoulder ahead, you have to get in at least the middle lane or left lane in order to clear yourself of wrongdoing.
Not only are the ticket prices for failing to adhere to the move over law extremely expensive, but you’d be putting lives at risk by driving in the right lane. Should someone get out of their vehicle on the shoulder without checking their mirrors, they could end up in a serious accident if you’re not moved over.
Don’t Use Your Phone
Florida also has a distracted driving law — if you’re caught using your phone, whether it’s to text someone or queue up a playlist, you are eligible for a citation.
Check Your Blind Spot … Every Time
The best defense against crazy drivers is to check your blind spot! One of the most common accidents that happens on interstates is when drivers fail to check their blind spots and move over into another lane and sideswipe the vehicle already in that lane.
Hire an Auto Accident Attorney If Anything Goes Wrong
Should anything ever go wrong (fingers crossed it doesn’t!) while you’re driving in Florida, it’s important you hire an auto accident attorney to navigate the aftermath of the accident. The attorney will take care of dealing with the police, the other motorists involved, and the insurance, so you can focus on making sure that you are okay.
Don’t Stress About Driving in Florida
At the end of the day, there’s no point in stressing about driving to Florida. Educate yourself on state procedures like the move over law, employ safe driving habits, and you’ll be just fine!
For more lifestyle advice, be sure to check out the rest of the articles on the website!
