Crashes Happen Every 44 Seconds in Florida

A crash occurs every 44 seconds in Florida according to a press release sent out by the Florida Departmet of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) this morning.
​
The release notes that among those accidents, one in seven involve distracted driving.

"Anything diverting your focus from safe driving is Distracted Driving. Whether it's chatting or texting on your phone, reaching for a snack, adjusting the radio, or tinkering with your navigation, these actions can lead to crashes," stated Bill Leeper, Nassau County Sheriff and President of the Florida Sheriffs Association in part.

April marks National Distracted Driving Awareness Month, highlighting the danger. Preliminary data shows nearly 300 deaths in 2023 due to distracted driving, a rise from 2022.

Distracted driving citation stats

​Officials stress the importance of focus and responsibility while driving, as distractions can lead to severe penalties and fatal consequences.

"Florida's sheriffs are committed to upholding distracted driving laws to safeguard the public. Take proactive measures to eliminate distractions that could lead to catastrophic outcomes for you, your passengers, and fellow drivers. As President of the Florida Sheriffs Association, I wholeheartedly support the 'Put It Down' campaign by the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles."

A tragic incident in 2016 resulted in the death of nine-year-old Logan Scherer, emphasizing the need for prevention and protection against distracted driving.

​Gregory Andriotis's case, the first texting and driving trial in Florida, ended in a 30-year prison sentence, underlining the serious repercussions of distracted driving.

Authorities and organizations, including the Florida Department of Transportation and law enforcement agencies, urge drivers to prioritize safety and eliminate distractions on the road.

“Every time we choose to focus fully on driving, we're making the roads safer for everyone. Let's work together to reduce distractions and prevent accidents. Your attention to driving can save lives," said FPCA President Charles “Chuck” Broadway, Chief of Police, Clermont PD.

For more information and safe driving tips, visit FLHSMV’s Distracted Driving webpage.