NEW (SLIGHTLY) ENHANCED PENALTIES FOR DRIVERS WHO INJURE OR KILL BICYCLISTS AND PEDESTRIANS IN FLORIDA
Florida finally passed a law this year that enhances the penalties for drivers who seriously injure or kill a vulnerable road user like a pedestrian or bicyclist. As I’ve covered before, bills that would have provided enhanced penalties in these cases have consistently failed in the Florida legislature in 2019, 2020, and 2022. But we now have a victory for our side.
Concealed Carry in Florida: License No Longer Needed
Carrying a concealed firearm without a license will no longer be a crime in Florida after July 1. This following the signing into law of HB 543 by Governor DeSantis on April 3. Prior to the law’s passage carrying a concealed firearm without a concealed weapons license (CWL) was a third-degree felony, and first-degree misdemeanor […]
“I was only drinking at red lights and stop signs, officer!”
I’m sure you heard that creative defense from the Florida man out in Vero Beach when he was stopped for suspicion of DUI. He was stopped after a woman called police to complain about him continually hitting her bumper with his car while waiting in line at the McDonald’s driver thru. The police officer showed […]
Honoring Lives Lost: World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims in Florida
Florida, known for its vibrant culture and scenic landscapes, is unfortunately also recognized for some of the most dangerous roads in the country. Every year, countless lives are affected by crashes on the roads, leaving families shattered and communities grieving. As we observe the World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims, it’s essential to reflect on the impact these tragedies have had on our lives and reaffirm our commitment to road safety.
Changes Effecting Florida Bicyclists Become Law
There are some big changes effecting Florida bicyclists starting July 1, 2021. On June 29, Governor Ron DeSantis signed SB 950, addressing bicycle and pedestrian safety, into law. I wrote about the initial version of this bill back in March when it was introduced in the Senate, along with its companion bill in the House. The bill was modified as it travelled through committees for its final votes, passing both the Senate and House. Here is what the final version will now mean for Floridians.
If a Florida bicyclist is injured in a crash, who pays the medical bills?
If a Florida bicyclist is injured in a crash with a motor vehicle, like a car or truck, what are their options to get the medical bills paid? Thankfully in Florida, bicyclists actually have a few options.
When road design can spark confusion and create danger
I was out for a ride the other day and came across a confusing and dangerous section of road that isn’t uncommon here in South Florida. This time it wasn’t because of the drivers. It was due to the road design.
Car safety systems could be making roads more dangerous
What was supposed to make driving safer appears to have the opposite effect. Technologies like adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist could be giving drivers a false sense of security and causing them to reduce their concentration while driving.
Less Safety for the Las Olas Mobility Improvement Project
My recent letter to the editor of the Sun Sentinel addressed the lack of safety concerns for pedestrians, cyclists, and even motorists on Las Olas Boulevard in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
What should a cyclist do after a bicycle accident?
In this video, I discuss what cyclists should know and do if they are involved in a crash with a car or other vehicle on the roadways in Florida.