Arrive Alive in Florida during summer - roadway safety tips and statistics

Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV)
Florida Highway Patrol (FHP)

Florida, during June and July, historically experiences higher speeds and increased crashes as it becomes a premier summer destination.

Tallahassee, Florida - On June 2, 2023, the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) and the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) launched its annual Safe Summer Travel Campaign, reminding all Floridians and visitors that safety is paramount. Over the next two months, as Floridians and visitors enjoy the many activities the state offers, these and other law enforcement agencies will be promoting safety messages that promote the use of seat belts, driving patiently in heavy traffic, never driving impaired, tire safety, maintaining a vehicle's road-readiness, and preventing vehicular heat stroke - safvety messages that focus on road safety decision-making to ensure that everyone “Arrives Alive” at their intended destinations.

“We proudly welcome visitors to the free state of Florida, in all its natural beauty and splendor," said FLHSMV Executive Director Dave Kerner. "Our hardworking law enforcement officers and state troopers work every day to ensure all our residents and visitors entertain themselves lawfully and responsibly and get home safely. Enjoy your summer, knowing that law enforcement will be working diligently to safeguard residents and visitors.”

“As summer arrives, we want you to arrive alive; FHP Troopers stand ready to enforce all traffic violations and are committed to public safety,” said FHP Colonel Gary Howze II, Director of the Florida Highway Patrol. “Remember always to obey all traffic laws and be courteous to other road users while traveling in our great state this summer.”

CRASH DATA ANALYSIS

With traffic higher during summer months, so too are citations and crashes. According to FLHSMV data analysis, in June and July of 2022, there were 107,048 crashes with 499 deaths and 2,385 serious bodily injuries. During those two months, law enforcement personnel issued 3,165 citations for unlawful speed, while 2,349 crashes resulted from excessive speed.

While you may be celebrating United States independence in July, driver freedom comes with a responsibility toward safety. The three days surrounding the 4th of July holiday are typically some of the worst related to traffic crashes.

Over the past five years, on average for the three-day period of July 3-5, there have been 4,924 crashes, resulting in 1,794 injuries and 28 deaths. While there was an average of 95 impaired-driving arrests each year between 2018 and 2022, there were also 143 alcohol-related crashes and 44 drug-related crashes, on average, per year.

GO SLOW, SOBER, AND SECURED

• With more cars on the road, it’s important to understand that traffic will be heavy before hitting the road. Expect delays and approach travel with patience.
• Buckle up – it’s the law and it could save your life.
• Obey all posted speed limits. Speeding and driving aggressively increases the probability and severity of a crash. Slow down and stay cool-headed. Roads are no place for aggressive behaviors.
• Never drive impaired. There are always alternatives – taxis and ride-shares or designating a sober friend. Report impaired drivers by dialing *FHP (*347) or 911.

ROAD-TRIP READY

According to AAA, 57% of Floridians plan to take a summer vacation, and 87% plan to do so by road trip. However, 21% will fail to get their vehicle inspected prior to travel.

In the same way you make sure your vehicle is filled up with fuel (or electric charge) prior to departure, make sure you’re fully road-trip ready – perform vehicle maintenance, check tires including the spare, and make sure there are no vehicle recalls.

Tires are your vehicle’s first line of defense. They should have correct pressure and adequate tread. Never overload a vehicle, as the weight change can result in premature tire wear, blowouts, and hydroplaning.

PREPARE FOR INCLEMENT WEATHER

Safe speeds and safe tires play together well, especially during summer months when wildfires and hurricanes become more prevalent, and rainstorms are daily threats.

Learn more about disaster preparedness on the Florida Division of Emergency Management’s website, FloridaDisaster.org,

Florida summers are incredibly hot. Temperatures inside a vehicle can heat up by 20 degrees in just 10 minutes, and children get hot faster than adults. NEVER leave a child or pet unattended in a vehicle, not even for a short time.

Cracking a window does little to keep a vehicle cool. Ignoring this advice could be deadly, as well as incur severe criminal penalties!