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11 Interesting Facts You May Not Know About Florida

Marinam — Wed, 25 Dec 2024 13:52:23 +0000

You probably know Florida is home to Disney World and is nicknamed the Sunshine State. You may even know that Key West is the southernmost point in the continental U.S. and that St. Augustine is considered the oldest city in the country. If you are interested in moving to Florida consider enrolling in traffic school so you better understand the rules of the road. You can also check out some Virginia facts if you are planning a road trip. Now take a look at these 11 things you may not know about Florida.

1. Tolls

Florida has more toll roads and bridges than any other state in the Union.

2. Fern Capital

The small town of Pierson in Northeast Florida is known as the Fern Capital of the World. Ferns from farms here are shipped worldwide and these farms can be seen everywhere in the area.

3. Highest Point

The highest point in Florida is only 345 feet above sea level. Britton Hill is in the Florida Panhandle. The highest point in Florida’s peninsula is Sugarloaf Mountain near Clermont at 312 feet.

4. Golf

Florida has more golf courses than any other state and is home to the World Golf Hall of Fame and Museum in St. Augustine.

5. Gators and Crocs

The Florida Everglades are the only place on the planet where crocodiles and alligators live together.

6. Go With The Flow

Florida’s largest river, the St. Johns River, is one of only a few major rivers that flow from south to north.

7. More than Oranges

Florida is the largest producer of watermelons in the country. It also produces the most tomatoes, strawberries and sugar.

8. That’s a LOT of Wood

Made mostly of Florida pine, The Belleview Biltmore Resort and Spa, northwest of Tampa Bay is said to be the world’s largest occupied wooden structure at 820,000 square feet.

9. Biggest City

You may be surprised to learn that in terms of area, Jacksonville, Florida is the largest city in the United States.

10. Long Lines

Sure there are long lines at Disney World. After all annual attendance is about 17 million people. That’s over 45,000 people per day on AVERAGE. Busy days will see over 100,000.

11. Cool!

It would make sense that mechanical refrigeration was invented in Florida. In 1851 Dr. John Gorrie of the little town of Apalachicola created the invention.

If you think these facts are not interesting enough then read our article on fun facts about Florida.

If you are heading to Florida for Spring Break or planning a summer vacation, drive safe. Florida drivers come from all over and have different driving temperaments. Careful driving could keep you from getting into an accident. Also, learn about Florida tourist traffic traps if you plan to travel.

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Top 10 Places to Live in Florida

Deborah Lockhart — Wed, 18 Dec 2024 12:33:49 +0000

Florida is home to beaches, breathtaking sunsets, and… you? If you’ve ever wanted to live in a state with amazing national and state parks, vacation destinations, and Disneyworld, then consider living in the Sunshine State. Below, we’ve created an extensive guide on the best places to live in Florida.

Sanibel Island

You have a chance to live out your deserted island fantasy while having all the perks of a nearby town if you move to Sanibel Island. White sand beaches without a person in sight and beautiful sunsets await you on this secluded island. It even has a lighthouse!

Tampa

Tampa is Florida’s favorite midsize city. With comfortable neighborhoods, a sprawling business district, and a diverse art culture, Tampa is a fantastic place to live for people of all ages. Who could say no to the home of a Busch Garden’s theme park?

Destin

Destin, Florida is a popular vacation spot for most American families. This large town offers wildlife centers, luscious golf courses, and scenic leisure trails. You won’t have to wait for your spring break getaway every year, because you can just vacation here forever.

Dogtown

Dogtown is known for its old mines, a few dinosaur fossils, and having the name of “Dogtown.” This small town offers a change of pace from what you’re used to in Florida. A major benefit here is the bragging right you’ll have from living in a town named after man’s best friend. Despite the name, it’s apparently NOT a town ran entirely by dogs.

Key West

Located in a grouping of small islands, Key West stands out as a major destination for vacationers. There’s good reason for it, too. The relaxing atmosphere makes living conditions stress-free no matter what the circumstances. Be careful thought, you may get a traffic ticket for being anxious here.

Jacksonville

Forbes has ranked Jacksonville as the fifth fastest growing city in the U.S, making it a perfect location for young, business-minded people. At night, you’ll find electrifying nightlife, vibrant arts & culture, and the best restaurants in Florida. During the day, the city-wide hobby includes “watersports.”

Naples

Naples is a retirement trap destination. Residents must cautiously avoid blowing their retirement savings on the high-end shopping centers and golf courses. However, residents over 55 can save on a mature driver traffic school Florida course for a lovely car insurance discount.

South Palm Beach

One quaint town that stands out among the rest is South Palm Beach, Florida. The entire town’s district is less than one mile long. The best thing about working in South Palm Beach is not using your car – ever. You can walk or bike anywhere you go. If you need to drive, you can take the single road that travels through the whole, entire town.

Cassadaga

If what you’re missing from life are ghosts, then this is the town for you. Cassadaga is the unofficial psychic capital of the world. The town’s entire economy is built on the backs of psychics and ghost hunters. Instead of going out for brunch, you can indulge in a late morning palm reading.

Osprey

Osprey, Florida is a town district off the Gulf of Mexico. It’s located south of Sarasota and has just about everything you need in a town. With high-grade educational systems, parks, and recreational areas, Osprey is a lovely town that will be great for everyone. The most challenging part about Osprey is starting a family.

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What is the Best Florida Commute?

Deborah Lockhart — Wed, 18 Dec 2024 07:44:06 +0000

Florida is home to white sand beaches, beautiful bayous, and 80% of the U.S’ citrus population. What people don’t know about Florida is the diverse means of transportation. With such a wide array of choices, it’s hard to choose the best Florida commute. That’s why we’ve broken down the best means of commuting in the Sunshine state.

Car

Commute by car is the most common mode of transportation in Florida. However, if everyone drives their own car to work, it could have negative impact on the environment, traffic conditions, and your bank account. Given the opportunity, choose to carpool to reduce the number of cars on the road and to split travel costs.

Ride Sharing App

Ride sharing apps, like Lyft and Uber, are a comfortable way to get around. The biggest problem is trusting a stranger to drive, and the price of the commute itself. The other downside is not having a reason to enroll in traffic school.

Alligator

Alligators are Florida’s most underutilized mode of transportation. They run on biodegradable fuel and can be lined up to mush, like a pack of Alaskan Huskies. Society doesn’t bat an eye at the sight of man’s best friend pulling a sleigh through the snow, but apparently, they think it’s “unnecessarily bizarre” when man’s best reptilian friend is used to pull your airboat to the office.

Bicycle

Bicycling is great for toning those quads and glutes. It’s also a cost-effective way to commute in Florida. With green advocates on the rise, more bikers than ever are commuting to work. Dust off that old bike and roll up those pant legs, because you’re going to want to show off those defined calf muscles.

Skateboard/Scooter

Skateboarding or taking your scooter is a great way to get around if your next stop is nearby and you have a rad personality. Taking your skateboard or scooter means you won’t spend money on gas or a ride sharing app. You might even have a chance of wall riding yourself through a montage of sick ollies.

Motorcycle

Commuting on your motorcycle won’t only show people how tough you are, but it’s also a great way to reduce costs on gas. The downside of commuting on a motorcycle is the dangers of rush hour traffic and reckless drivers. However, if you’re riding a motorcycle, you might be too tough to even notice you wrecked.

Bus

Buses are a great way to relive those precious memories of going to grade school. But, what people don’t realize, they’re also an effective way to get around the city. If you pretend all the sick, angry people are lifelong friends you met in grade school, the commute doesn’t seem that bad.

Vanpool

A vanpool is similar to a carpool, but, instead of 3-4 people, you have around 6-8 people in a van. This commuting method is popular for people who work in the same office. Vanpools are like taking a small bus, but you know the sick, angry people.

Airboat

Thick, overgrown waters aren’t very conducive for driving a car. But, airboats have no issue gliding across those Floridian bayous and swamps. Swamp people can get to and from their bustling nine to five in the city while coasting over murky, alligator infested waters in a compact airboat.

Train/Subway

Commuting by train or the subway is a smart choice if you live in a metropolitan area. If you don’t mind close quarters with strangers, and the risk of getting sick from slimy surfaces, then the train is a great economic commute.

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Tampa Traffic vs. Orlando Traffic

Deborah Lockhart — Tue, 17 Dec 2024 03:55:51 +0000

Everyone knows about the indisputable feud between Tampa and Orlando. The two Floridian cities share the same interstate highway, but there can be only one… better city. When you weigh the pros and cons of both cities, they come out equal. What isn’t equal, however, is their traffic conditions. Which do you think is worse: Tampa traffic or Orlando traffic?

Traffic is a deal-breaker. Just ask anyone who moved away from Dallas, Los Angeles, or Atlanta. Joining the ranks among the worst traffic conditions in the country could be one of these tourist traps. That’s why we’re breaking down the traffic conditions of Tampa and Orlando to discover which city has the worst traffic.

Orlando Traffic

Rush Hour

Rush Hour is a major contributor to the traffic conditions in Orlando, Florida. Calm down, we’re not talking about the hit thriller/action film Rush Hour starring the amazing Jackie Chan and hilarious Chris Tucker. We know how much you love that movie. In fact, there are four specific times that are considered rush hour: 7:30 AM to 9:30 AM, 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM, 3:00 PM to 4:00 PM, and, finally, 4:30 PM to 6:30 PM. This accumulates to about 6 hours of traffic during the week. In other words, you could watch Rush Hours 1, 2, and 3, while waiting in rush hour traffic.

Disney World

Disney World brings in millions of tourists every single year, which makes Orlando one of the busiest vacation destinations in Florida. Between the out-of-state drivers and the drive-by gawkers, the roads can become a dangerous place. Immediately, they become filled with people driving under the speed limit, clogging up intersections, highways, and exits. Whenever tourist enters Orlando, they automatically become your 85-year-old grandmother.

“The I-4 Mystery”

“The I-4 Mystery” is folklore told amongst locals throughout the city. It tells about the mysterious nature of interstate 4 traffic, which travels through downtown Orlando. Some days, traffic could flow perfectly, but other days it could be mind-numbingly gridlocked. Instead, “the I-4 Mystery” sums up the odds and ends of various reasons why traffic could be backed up. It’s not so much a mystery as it is road construction, roadside incidents, and traffic violators.

Tampa Traffic

Rush Hour

Rush Hour times in Tampa aren’t nearly as bad as they are in Orlando. With fewer tourists checking in and out of hotels, Tampa will naturally experience less tourist traffic during mid-day. That doesn’t stop the bay city from having evening traffic. The rush begins at 7:30 to 9:30 AM and picks up again at 3:30 PM to 7:30 PM in the evening. Everyone just needs to see those famous Tampa sunsets.

Reckless Drivers

Reckless Drivers are in every city. They clog up the roads by driving sporadically. Especially when they get pulled over by a police officer. Nothing is more frustrating than shifting to one lane of traffic when a reckless driver gets pulled over. If this is you, maybe try becoming a defensive driver. Also, if you enroll in traffic school, you can save money by keeping your auto insurance rates from increasing. Two birds, one stone, but in Tampa beach terms: two seagulls, one volleyball.

A Good Economy

A Good Economy is a fantastic news for a city’s growth. However, when a city grows in the population without updating its infrastructure, it could lead to traffic congestion. Forbes listed Tampa as one of the fastest-growing metropolitan areas, but the roads are having a hard time keeping up. More cars mean more traffic.

Regardless of which city has the worst traffic, the important advice to remember, when driving, is to be a defensive driver. When you’re not, and you get a traffic ticket, remember you can prevent your auto insurance from increasing by enrolling in a traffic school. Now go watch some Rush Hour.

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Florida Tourist Traffic Traps

Deborah Lockhart — Mon, 16 Dec 2024 14:13:49 +0000

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For tourist and speeders, traffic traps are the bane of highway travels. Lurking in the shadows, highway patrol waits for their unsuspecting victim to speed through their trap. But, the victims aren’t so much victims as they are perpetrators for violating the traffic laws. Once they get a ticket, they usually opt to take online FL traffic school to dismiss the ticket.

However, some highway patrol takes it too far. One example of excessive speeding traps is the scheme that occurred in Waldo, Florida. An investigation began in the tiny village after 7 police officers wrote 12,000 speeding tickets in one year.

Speeding is always bad, but speeding traps are worst. The investigation led to the disbandment of the entire Waldo police force. Florida has the reputation of excessive speeding traps throughout the state, so we’re listing some of the top traffic traps for Florida tourist.

Lawtey

Like Waldo, this small shanty town is notorious for its high rate of speed traps. Be on the lookout for signs that quickly reduce speeds, school zones, and how fast you’re going through the town. When driving through this town, remember you can’t spell Lawtey without “Law” – as in, follow it.

Miami

One of the biggest cities in Florida, Miami has countless reports of speeding traps. Most reports note turnpikes, streets throughout the city, and occasionally on the highways. When visiting this town, remember you can catch some sun, beach fun, and some traffic tickets.

St. Petersburg

St. Petersburg has its fair share of traffic traps. When passing through the city, watch out for school zones and speed limit signs that fluctuate quickly. The police are relentless with issuing tickets. Instead of calling it St. Petersburg, it should be called St. Speedersburg.

Tampa

You can find yourself falling into a traffic trap whenever you take an exit in Tampa. Drive the speed limit, or a few below, when you leave a highway. Police like to pull over unsuspecting speeders who are adjusting their speed.

Lady Lake

In this small town, reduce speed signs are littered throughout the area. This makes the land ripe for ticketing. You’ll pass through this town when you’re taking US 441.

Sarasota

When you’re visiting Sarasota, be sure to check out the Big Cat Habitat or the Marine Laboratory, because you’ll need to do something happy after accumulating all your traffic tickets. Sarasota has an abundance of traffic traps. Be wary of traveling through this city; especially around bridges and school zones.

Gulf Breeze

When you’re vacationing to Destin (everyone loves Destin) watch out for speeding traps around Gulf Breeze on US 98. This area is known for the traffic traps set to catch you unsuspectingly. Which, everyone will be caught unsuspectingly, because the only thing people will be thinking about is their awesome vacation in Destin.

Orlando

Orland has one of the densest and unforgiving traffic traps in the state. Disney World can’t supply enough magic and wonder to make these traffic traps vanish. Some police officers like to catch tourist, who are unfamiliar with the area, when they least expect it: right outside Mickey Mouse’s Kingdom. That’s how Disney World works, right? Don’t fall victim to the tourist traffic traps around Orlando.

When you slip up and exceed the speed limit, you’ll be slapped with an expensive traffic ticket. Getting a traffic violation will result in a higher annual car insurance rate. But, there’s a solution to this problem.

Enrolling in an online traffic school and passing your Florida driving test will keep your insurance rates from skyrocketing when you, unfairly, get ticketed. So, enroll in one of our online traffic school course to get started taking your test.

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Florida Seniors to Take Advantage of Self-Driving Cars

Deborah Lockhart — Sat, 14 Dec 2024 20:30:51 +0000

It is coming as no surprise that there is much debate over the functionality and effectiveness of self-driving cars. Already, there have been numerous accidents involving these types of vehicles, but nonetheless, their use is still being promoted by many companies. In Florida, 125,000 seniors living in a retirement community are becoming some of the first people with free access to self-driving cars. These cars are providing transportation on approximately 750 miles of roads in The Villages — a Florida retirement community. If seniors want to take advantage of lower insurance rates, they should check into a mature driver discount. Also, to help lower insurance rates, seniors can take advantage of online traffic school Florida to help them with ticket dismissal.

You’re probably wondering what company is behind this robo-taxi service. It’s a company called Voyage, a startup that specializes in autonomous vehicles. As part of the project, seniors will have access to free transportation to and from a variety of activities, including the local theater, grocery stores, and more. During the first part of the project, a technician will be on board as a form of caution and to carry out system monitoring tasks. These vehicles will have steering wheels, and if needed, the technician can take the wheel and take control of the car. During later phases of the project, though, there will be no technician on board and a transportation fee will be added.

If the project goes well, it could revolutionize the way seniors are able to get back and forth to some of their more pertinent activities and appointments. It could also help propel the auto industry to speed up their progress on self-driving vehicles. According to the CEO of Voyage, Oliver Cameron, “There’s been tons of interest by seniors, and no complaints… They feel like pioneers.”

When in a controlled environment, seniors are especially ideal for taking advantage of driver-less cars. A controlled environment means that the “homes, roads and commercial districts are neatly laid out.” The average age of residents living in The Village is 72, with many of them owning smartphones, which gives them simple and convenient access to Voyage’s free app that allows them to book transportation. Cameron goes on to say “they certainly have a need for this as their biggest problem is visual impairment … Many can no longer drive, or drive only during the daytime.”

There have been many cautionary signals given to self-driving vehicles from consumer groups across America. Jack Gillis, a spokesperson with the Consumer Federation of America, state “that Congress was asleep at the wheel, and had basically given car companies a blank check to create their own driver-less cars without any real oversight or regulation from the U.S. Department of Transportation.”

Are there hurdles to be jumped in regards to driverless vehicles? Absolutely, but the project taking place in The Village is an excellent way to carry out experiments in a controlled environment that can help boost the efficiency and effectiveness of self-driving cars. Before these vehicles can actually drive on the highway outside of a controlled environment, there needs to be much research and this project is providing valuable research data.

There are other projects taking place across the country, such as in Michigan at Mcity’s Test Facility located in Ann Arbor; this is where there is a mile long track that simulates real driving conditions, including everything from pedestrians to bicyclists. Huei Peng, the Director of Mcity, says that, “Driver-less technology has made a lot of progress.” He even went on to point out the many advantages to be gained by carrying out a self-driving project in a senior community, which included, “A supportive, affluent community with few pedestrians, low-speed limits and good weather.”

Peng goes on to add that the Voyage is a trailblazing company, “They are trailblazers… best wishes to them.” And since we’re talking about trailblazing, let’s not forget to mention that there will be a lot of trailblazing going on at the Detroit Auto Show this year. From self-driving cars to various devices using AV technology, the show is a big draw for automakers.

The Voyage project taking place in Florida will likely help improve consumers’ views toward driverless cars, which at the time is not very positive. Cameron says, “We have a long way to go before this is viable for everyone in the country, but if we succeed here, it will be much easier to win universal acceptance.”

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Florida Beaches in the Winter

Deborah Lockhart — Sat, 14 Dec 2024 10:04:49 +0000

Florida is home to many attractions and get-away destinations. When winter hits, the state becomes cramped with tourist and out-of-staters trying to soak up the warm sun. You can beat the crowds and traffic this winter by being smart about where you beach.

That’s right. Beach is also a verb now! It’s 2018!

Some beaches are swamped with crowds, while others are isolated retreats. So, since you just passed your Florida driving test, it’s time to celebrate. Forget about that cliché trip to Disney World, the beaches of this coastal peninsula are beckoning your name.

Here are some hot spots you may want to consider during your winter escape.

Santa Rosa Beach

Located in the Emerald Coast, Santa Rosa is a beach destination that has crystal clear waters and open sands. With extra space on this beach, you can avoid that wandering, estranged old man trying to find the perfect location to place their beach umbrella.

Delray Beach

If you’re trying to find something that offers more than just a leisurely rest under the sun, then check out the Delray Beach. Catering to the more touristy side, you’re able to find snorkeling, water skiing, drinks, and more at this beach side rendezvous.

Jupiter Beach

The more secluded the better! If you’re an isolationist, but also a beach lover, then consider Jupiter Beach your next destination. This spot is perfect if you want to avoid the crowds and commotion of the more popular spots. Jupiter Beach is made from a tiny sliver of Florida’s coastline, so it’s often overlooked by people on vacation.

Mexico Beach

What? Have I been transported across the continent to Mexico? Nope! One of Florida’s favorite, small beach towns is home to Mexico Beach. It’s quiet with a small-town feel. Located east of Panama City, Mexico Beach is a forgotten spot for travelers. This means open beaches and quiet retreats.

Miami Beach

Big crowds and big parties. Miami Beach is a very popular tourist destination during the prime time of winter. Partygoers and college freshmen males and females alike are a common sighting along this beach strip. If that sounds like your kind of party, then buckle up and hit the road, Miami Beach will be your favorite vacation spot this winter.

Clearwater Beach

Just like the name implies, Clearwater Beach has crystal clear waters. Being a familiar destination among travelers, Clearwater Beach is a pleasant trip for the entire family. A little-known fact, you can take sail on a commercially owned pirate ship off the pier. Now you have the chance to fulfill your crazy pirate dream!

Daytona Beach

This popular family destination is great for all ages. Nearby is the bustling city containing plenty of attractions, restaurants, and relaxation. Daytona beach is a staple of family-friendly Florida beaches, because of the amenities they offer their guest. From biking along the coast or boogie boarding out to sea, you’ll find it all at this popular spot.

Pensacola Beach

This coastline is known as the most popular, but-never-heard-of-before, beach. This sandy destination stretches along the west side coast of Florida. It has a reputation of turquoise waters, white sands, and peaceful atmosphere. You can also find affordable rentals with plenty to do in the small towns nearby.

The Siesta Key

Ah, yes. No Florida beach list article will be complete without the famous Siesta Keys. This city has everything you could expect in a tourist destination. It’s known as a family-friendly city, so you’ll miss out on all the college guys blasting music and beers next to your family’s beach spot. Oh, also, they have a body of water called Oyster Bay. How whimsical is that!?

Whether you’re taking a week off from college or trying to escape winter’s wrath, Florida has the perfect beach to meet your needs.

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New FL Traffic Laws 2018

Deborah Lockhart — Sat, 14 Dec 2024 02:29:50 +0000

Just as expected, Florida has moved ahead to affect several milestone FL traffic laws in 2018. It’s quite easy to miss these traffic laws since the mainstream media has mostly focused on highlighting the minimum wage increase law in the Sunshine State. Florida approved slightly over 230 bills in the last fiscal year alone.

It is absolutely necessary for all motorists to have a clear understanding of the newly introduced road user’s rules for both their safety and well-being. That knowledge helps the motorists to avoid getting into altercations with the state troopers manning the highways and roads. One shouldn’t have to take a Florida traffic school to dismiss a FL traffic ticket because they didn’t stay in the know with regards to the new laws that came into effect starting January 2018. Read on to learn more about how one complies with these new traffic rules to avoid incurring hefty fines and other severe road-related penalties.

HB 647 Bill

The most significant traffic bill approved in 2017 goes under the acronym, HB 647. This bill seeks to regulate the behemoth ride-sharing industry that has somewhat spiraled out of control in recent years. Cab hailing apps led by Uber and Lyft were among the major beneficiaries of the passed legislation.

These ride-sharing service providers are not expected to fully comply with the same laws governing the conventional taxi companies in the Sunshine State. The HB 647 bill finally got the approval of Governor Scott on the 6th of June 2017. It had successfully passed several rounds of discussion in the house.

Move Over Law

Another hotly debated traffic rule that came into effect in January 2018 in Florida is the move over law. The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV) now expects all motorists to pave the way clear for any emergency and service vehicles plying their routes.

Last year alone, an estimated 17,000 motorists got slapped with a traffic citation for failing to move over for the first respondents, law enforcers, road rangers, and other utility services workers while on the Florida roads. The legislation seeks to improve the safety conditions for the thousands of workers working on the roadsides to repair and maintain our crucial roads. If successful, the law will ensure that these workers get to perform their jobs uninterrupted and most importantly, they get to arrive home alive and well.

Texting While Driving Law

In addition to the newly approved traffic legislation, motorists are reminded that the laws that came into effect in 2017 will still be enforced. For instance, in mid-2017, Florida vetoed the bill effectively banning texting while driving laws.

The anti-texting ban aimed to improve the safety of vehicle passengers, vehicle operators, other road users and bicyclists using our roads. Although the ban categorically bans texting, it also encompasses other communication modes, for instance, instant messaging and e-mailing while behind the wheels.

Approved Driving Courses

If you do get pulled over for committing a traffic violation in Florida, one should highly consider taking a state-approved defensive driving course (also known as a basic driver improvement (BDI)) course to avoid getting points on your driving record. Taking a course will also serve to enlighten you on the currently approved road user’s laws.

Asides the four-hour basic driving improvement course offered to ticket holders, schools also offer the following courses for traffic offenders and those applying to get their driver’s license:

• 8-hour Intermediate Driver Improvement Course (IDI)
• 8-hour Aggressive Driver Course (ADC)
• 12-hour Advanced Driver Improvement Course
• 4-hour Traffic Laws and Substance Abuse Education Course (TLSAE)
• Permit Exam

Affordable Rates

In Florida, these driving improvement courses get approved by the municipal and provincial courts. For the more experienced driver, who is age 50 or over, you can take a Florida Mature Driver course to get a discount on your car insurance. Check out the best Florida traffic school deals that not only saves you loads of cash but one that enlightens you on the essential road safety rules and regulations in your state.

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Texting and Driving in Florida Primary Offense Under New Bill

Deborah Lockhart — Thu, 12 Dec 2024 08:09:07 +0000

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), distracted driving is responsible for nearly 3,500 deaths across the country each year. Then there’s the 390,000 that are injured due to the likes of texting and driving, eating, drinking, or something similar annually.

Texting is certainly the distracted driving practice that’s been getting the most attention. Think of it this way: If you’re texting and driving a vehicle at 55 miles per hour, you’ve gone about the length of a football field in about five seconds. A lot can happen in a split second, let alone five seconds. You can learn about a lot of this in FL traffic school.

Bill HB 33

In an effort to drastically curb the number of distracted driving accidents in Florida, state lawmakers have introduced Bill HB 33, which, if signed into law, would make texting and driving a primary offense and come with much more serious penalties. According to Jackie Toledo, a state representative from Tampa that helped create the bill, more than 45,000 accidents in 2015 stemmed from distracted driving, resulting in about 200 deaths and almost 40,000 injuries.

So just what would this bill, if passed, entail when it comes to penalties for distracted driving? They’re quite steep:

• A first offense would result in a $30 fine, plus court costs. The grand total would likely result in a penalty of more than $100.

• A second-time offender within a five-year span would be charged with a moving violation. Three points would be added to their license and they’d likely pay a fine of somewhere north of $150.

• A distracted driving offender that causes an accident would be hit with six points on their driver’s license.

• Any distracted driving violations in a school zone would warrant an additional two points against a driver’s license in addition to other penalties.

The bill is a bold proposal from a state government really looking to crack down on distracted driving – and you can learn a lot more about the true danger of distracted driving at our Florida school, named the best traffic school online by various reputable sources. Our defensive driving school can serve as a great refresher for learning the rules of the road, for getting points removed from your license or for being proactive and showing your insurance company how serious you are about driver safety.

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Steps to Pay Online Florida Traffic Ticket

Deborah Lockhart — Wed, 11 Dec 2024 07:47:03 +0000

So, you’ve got yourself a traffic ticket in Florida. Congratulations on joining a special club that stretches from Pensacola to Miami – and to plenty of tourists as well!
The Sunshine State may even lead the country in terms of numbers of speeding tickets, according to the National Motorists Association. And it makes sense — drivers can encounter everything from theme park parking lots as large as some states; some of the most crowded urban interstates in the country, and all sorts of coastal highways and byways where it’s easier to watch the beautiful scenery instead of a rapidly-rising speedometer.

What to do with your Florida Traffic Ticket

Be patient.

Do not pay it right away. You have 30 days to think over your options. But don’t wait too long, after 30 days, the state begins applying fines and other possible penalties!

Be certain.

Paying can, however, lead to more “points” on your license. Too many points over a certain amount of time can lead to a suspension or revocation of your license from Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles. If you’re at this point or getting close, consider finding an online traffic school, which can reduce the number of points.

Make Payment.

You will also however, have to pay the ticket along with attending traffic school. Luckily, Florida makes it easy to pay tickets. Payment can be mailed in, dropped off at a county courthouse or a state Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles office, or online in some counties.

Steps To Pay Online Payments

Step 1. Check County

Check County with the county where the ticket was incurred if this service is available. If you can’t remember, the county name and instructions will be printed on the ticket. If you can’t find your ticket, contact the county where you believe it happened, and they’ll assist and either send you a reprint or at least tell you the payment procedure.

Step 2. Check Clerk List

Look at list of all 67 county clerk offices, provided by Florida’s Division of Library and Information Services. Here, you can get a geographic address, phone number and other contact information, such as email, fax or web site. The list doesn’t say whether any particular office offers online payment; this requires browsing or calling the office to ask about payment, the process and what site to visit.

Counties that do offer online processing make it fairly easy to find this information, such as Bay County, which provides a well-organized menu of fees and services, everything from license reinstatement costs to late fees.

As with most legal situations, the burden to properly comply is up to the person with facing the penalty, so excuses like “my email bounced back” or “my Internet was down” are rarely adequate.

3. Provide Info

If a county can securely process online payments through its site, it generally requests information from ticket-holders such as:

• Your valid recognized credit card
• Your ticket citation number and other information about it (day/time)
• Your driver’s license info
• Your full name
• The amount to be paid

Counties may also charge their own surcharge for local court/processing fees beyond the standard citation fee. This is usually no more than a few dollars.
By the way, those who don’t want to pay their ticket online, or at all, don’t have too many good options. Ignoring it can lead to a suspension of your license within a month and bigger fines as time goes by.

You can also contest it, which includes requesting a hearing, calling witnesses, discussing the law and presenting evidence on your behalf to a judge. It can be time-consuming and ultimately more expensive in terms or time and effort, even if it’s dismissed.

Discovering the cost of a speeding ticket in Alabama is as simple as clicking here: How much is a Speeding Ticket in Alabama?

The post Steps to Pay Online Florida Traffic Ticket appeared first on MyImprov.

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Steps to Pay Online Florida Traffic Ticket