Can drivers face harsher penalties the faster they go? What Florida law says
Stiffer penalties aim to curb dangerous driving in Florida
Under House Bill 351, which went into effect just ahead of the busy July Fourth holiday weekend, first-time offenders can face a $500 fine, up to 30 days in jail or both. Repeat offenders risk a $1,000 fine and as many as 90 days behind bars.
A third violation within five years will result in a minimum six-month driver's license suspension.
MORE: When can you text and drive in Florida? What Florida law says
'I am a mother of a 7-year-old, and just for everyone's safety out there, I think it's crucial that everybody drives in the correct speed limit and, you know, bigger fines, bigger penalties,' local resident Stephanie Rojas told Miami Herald news partner CBS News Miami. 'It's really important that everyone maintains safety.'
Lawmakers say the goal is to reduce dangerous speeding and save lives on Florida's roads, especially during high-traffic periods like holiday weekends.
This report was produced by Miami Herald news partner CBS News Miami.
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