Victor Waite | December 2, 2025 | Car Accidents Near Delray Beach, FL
Florida’s driving laws encompass licensing requirements, speed limits, DUI regulations, and road safety rules. A primary goal of Florida’s driving laws is to enhance public safety. These laws regulate speeding, distracted driving, impaired driving, and lane changes, among other maneuvers and conduct.
Continue reading to learn more about these laws and how to keep yourself safe on the roads.
Licensing and Permits
Florida issues driver’s licenses for various categories. Learner’s permits place restrictions on drivers under 18 years old. Commercial driver’s licenses (CDLs) are required to operate various commercial vehicles and trucks. Even standard driver’s licenses may have restrictions, such as the use of glasses or contacts while driving.
Teen drivers must complete a minimum of 50 hours of supervised driving, including 10 hours of nighttime driving. They must have a learner’s permit for at least 12 months or until age 18 years old.
Speed and Traffic Regulation
Exceeding the posted speed limit can result in fines and points being added to the person’s driving record.
A new Dangerous Excessive Speeding law creates a criminal offense for:
- Exceeding the posted speed limit by 50 mph or more
- Operating a motor vehicle at 100 mph or more in a way that threatens the safety of others or property or interferes with the operation of any vehicle
First offenses for dangerous, excessive speeding can result in up to 30 days in jail and fines up to $500. Subsequent offenses within five years can lead to 90 days in jail, $1,000 fines, and from 180 days up to a one-year license suspension.
Move Over and HALO Laws
Florida requires drivers to slow down or move over when they approach:
- Stopped emergency vehicles
- Tow trucks
- Utility vehicles
- Disabled cars displaying flashing lights.
The HALO Law, effective January 2025, establishes a 25-foot buffer zone around first responders and utility workers on or near roadways, parking lots, or sidewalks. The intent is to protect the workers from car accidents and injuries. Penalties for violations can include misdemeanor charges and fines.
No Texting While Driving
Florida law prohibits drivers from texting and driving. Drivers may not operate a motor vehicle while manually typing or entering information into a wireless communication device. Using wireless communication devices in a handheld manner in work and school zones is strictly prohibited.
Impaired Driving (DUI)
It is illegal to operate a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs or with a BAC above the legal limit. Penalties for DUI can include fines, incarceration, a suspended driver’s license, and other punishments. Repeat offenders can face felony charges with increased sentences.
Seat Belt and Child Safety
Florida law requires seat belts for all drivers, front-seat passengers, and passengers under 18 years old. Child restraint laws require proper car seats based on age and size, with significant citations issued for violations.
Children 5 and under must be in a crash-tested, federally approved restraint; ages 0–3 separate carrier/integrated seat; ages 4–5 may use booster/other approved restraint.
Steps to Take After a Car Accident in Delray Beach, FL
If you are in an accident in Delray Beach or elsewhere in Florida, it is crucial to take steps to protect yourself and your best interests. You could receive economic and non-economic damages if another driver’s negligence caused the accident.
Steps to take after a car crash include:
- Report the car accident to the police by calling 911
- Document the scene and gather evidence by taking photographs and making videos with your cell phone
- Ask individuals for their names and contact information, including witnesses and bystanders
- Seek immediate medical treatment for your injuries; delays can cause problems with your insurance claim
- Do not admit fault for the accident or make statements without legal advice
Consider contacting a car accident lawyer for advice. Insurance companies will pay as little as possible to settle claims, which may be lower than your claim is worth.
Contact the Delray Beach Car Accident Attorneys at The Injury Law Firm, PA for Help Today
If you’ve been injured in a car accident, The Injury Law Firm, PA is here to help. Our Delray Beach car accident lawyers will fight to get the compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation.
If you’ve been injured in Delray Beach, and need legal help, contact our Delray Beach personal injury lawyers at The Injury Law Firm, PA to schedule a free consultation.
The Injury Law Firm, PA.
301 W. Atlantic Ave, Suite O-1, Delray Beach, FL 33444
(561) 800-4357
