TRAFFIC RULES IN FLORIDA

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DRIVING SIDE

Vehicles drive on the right-hand side of the road in Florida.

SPEED LIMITS

Speed limits vary depending on the type of road and location. In Florida, common speed limits include 30-35 mph (48-56 km/h) in residential areas, 60-75 mph (97-121 km/h) on highways, and 65-80 mph (105-129 km/h) on interstates. Speed limits are posted on signs along the road and must be obeyed.

TRAFFIC SIGNALS

Drivers are required to obey traffic signals, including traffic lights and stop signs. Right turns on red are generally permitted after coming to a complete stop and yielding to pedestrians and cross traffic, unless otherwise indicated by signage.

ALCOHOL BEHIND THE WHEEL

It is illegal to drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs in Florida. The legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit is 0.08% for adults, but it is lower for drivers under the age of 21.

SEAT BELTS

Florida law requires all occupants of passenger vehicles to wear a seat belt. This applies to drivers and front and rear seat passengers. Failure to wear a seat belt can result in a fine.

GIVING THE WAY

Drivers must give the right of way to pedestrians in crosswalks and to vehicles already stopped at an intersection. At intersections without traffic lights, the vehicle arriving first or from the right generally has the right of way.

WHAT TO DO IF I AM STOPPED BY THE POLICE

If you are stopped by law enforcement in Florida, it is important to stay calm, cooperate and respect each other. Here are some steps to follow if you are stopped by police:

Pull over safely
As soon as you see flashing lights or hear a siren indicating that an officer is giving the stopping order, pull over safely at the right edge of the roadway. Use your turn signal to indicate your intention to stop and, if possible, choose a well-lit and visible location, especially if it is dark outside.

Stay in the vehicle
Stay in the vehicle with your hands visibly on the steering wheel. Avoid sudden movements and wear your seat belt. If it is night, turn on interior lights to make yourself more visible to the officer.

Follow the instructions
Wait for the officer to approach your vehicle and follow his/her instructions. He or she may ask you for your driver's licence, vehicle registration number and proof of insurance. Take these documents out of your wallet or glove compartment when asked and hand them to the officer.

Be courteous and cooperative
Remain courteous and cooperative throughout the meeting. Answer the officer's questions honestly and respectfully. Avoid arguing, making excuses or confrontation as this can escalate the situation.

Remain calm and composed
If you are issued a ticket or citation, accept it calmly and sign it if required. Signing the ticket does not imply guilt, but it does confirm that you have received it and that you understand your options for dealing with it.

Know your rights
You have the right to remain silent and anything you say can be used against you in court. If you feel uncomfortable or unsure about the situation, you have the right to ask the officer if you can leave. However, it is essential that you follow the officer's instructions and do not resist or obstruct him or her in the performance of his or her duties.

Document the stop
If you believe your rights were violated during the stop, make note of the officer's badge number, patrol car number, and other important information. If necessary, you can file a complaint with the appropriate law enforcement agency or seek legal assistance.