Drivers are reminded to put safety at the top of their travel checklist this summer, as the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) is launching its Safe Summer Travel campaign.

In June and July 2018, there were 118,060 citations issued for unlawful speed, higher than any other months. Obeying speed limits and not driving aggressively improves safety by reducing the probability and severity of crashes. Drivers must obey speed limits and are responsible for knowing the speed limit on the roadway; never higher than 70 mph in Florida.

“Summer is one of the busiest times on Florida roadways, but it is also a great time to travel with the whole family. Take time to make sure your vehicle is travel-ready and always check for children and pets every time you get out of your vehicle,” said FLHSMV Executive Director Terry L. Rhodes. “Whether it’s a day trip or longer vacation, remember to slow down, stay cool and be safe.”

With more residents and visitors on Florida’s roadways, FLHSMV and its Division of the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) are partnering with the Florida Department of Children and Families, Florida Department of Transportation, Florida Police Chiefs Association, Florida Sheriffs Association and AAA – The Auto Club Group to help ensure all travelers Arrive Alive.

“When planning your summer travel, the Florida Police Chiefs Association encourages motorist to take simple steps to prepare: check your tires for wear, slow down and follow the speed limit, avoid distractions like texting, and never leave a child unattended in a vehicle,” said Florida State University Police Chief David Perry, President of the Florida Police Chiefs Association. “Make a habit of looking in the front and back of the vehicle before walking away.”

FLHSMV’s Safe Summer Travel Checklist:

  • Slow down, stay cool. Obey all posted speed limits.
  • Check all tires, including the spare. Check the vehicle’s tire pressure and ensure the vehicle’s tires have adequate tire tread. Under-inflated tires can overheat. Never overload a vehicle; it can result in premature tire wear, blowouts and hydroplaning.
  • NEVER leave children or pets in vehicles unattended. Summer can be incredibly hot in Florida and leaving children or pets unattended for even a short time can be deadly. Make sure all passengers are accounted for when exiting the vehicle.
  • Register emergency contact information. In the event of an emergency, make sure law enforcement knows who to call. The FLHSMV allows all driver license and ID card holders to register up to two designated emergency contacts. Log on to flhsmv.gov/eci to register or update contacts.
  • Prepare for driving in inclement weather. Summer is hurricane season in Florida, and along with an increased number of wildfires, drivers should be aware of changing weather and road conditions. Drivers should know their evacuation routes, check road closures and call *FHP to report unsafe road conditions.
  • Check for recalls before hitting the road at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
  • Drive Sober. Plan ahead and designate a sober driver or call a ride service. Report impaired drivers by dialing *FHP (*347) or 911.

For more information, real time traffic conditions and additional travel information, visit: flhsmv.gov/summertravel.