Florida Traffic Safety Rules All New Drivers Should Know

As a new driver, you’re responsible for knowing and obeying traffic rules and laws. Below we list some traffic rules in Florida that will help you stay safe on the road. 

Approaching Emergency Vehicles

If an emergency vehicle, such as an ambulance or fire truck, is approaching with their siren on and visible blue or red lights, you must yield. Safely drive to and position your vehicle closest to the nearest curb or edge of the roadway that is clear of an intersection. In an emergency vehicle situation, it’s important to be extra cautious and follow any instructions that are given by a police officer.

Train Crossing

According to Florida Statutes Section 316.1575, your vehicle should be further than 15 feet from the rail when stopped at a train crossing. You should not drive your vehicle through the crossing gate/barrier while the gate is closed, or is in the process of being closed or opened.

School Bus Stops

Many drivers wonder what to do if a school bus stops. If you are traveling in the same direction as the school bus and it has stopped in front of you, you must stop. If you are traveling in the opposite direction of the school bus on the other side of a raised median, physical barrier, or divided highway with an unpaved space of five feet or more, you do not need to stop. However, in all other circumstances, you must stop.

Children At Play

Drivers should take extra caution when driving through a school zone, or around parks or playgrounds. Posted school zone speed limits should always be followed and it’s best to reduce speed around these areas anyways.

Road Work

Changes in the road at construction or maintenance sites should be noticed and soft shoulders should be avoided. These soft shoulders should be marked when the pavement does not extend past the paved area and is instead composed of dirt, gravel, or other materials.

Speed Limits

Even when there are no visible speed limit signs posted, there is still a speed limit. Unless otherwise posted, the speed limit in business or residential areas is 30 mph, and on a four-lane highway divided by a median or rural interstate limited access highway, the speed limit is 55 mph. According to a study on teenage driver collisions in Florida, “teen-related crashes are more likely than adult-only crashes to involve speeding”. Speeding is dangerous, and speed limits are put in place to help you and other drivers remain safe on the road.

Remember, driving is a privilege, and it’s important to always practice safe driving techniques. The Florida traffic safety rules we listed above are put in place to keep the roads safe and help avoid motor vehicle accidents at all costs. If you have been involved in an accident in Florida, remain calm, seek medical attention, and contact a West Palm Beach car accident lawyer, like those at LaBovick Law Group. An experienced accident attorney can help you navigate the claims process and file a lawsuit if necessary.