The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV), in collaboration with the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP), the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT), the Florida Sheriffs Association (FSA), and the Florida Police Chiefs Association (FPCA), has announced its annual Impaired Driving Campaign, aimed at reducing crashes and fatalities caused by impaired drivers.
With March historically showing the highest number of impaired driving crashes in 2024 (over 10% of the year’s total), the campaign emphasizes the dangers of driving under the influence of alcohol, drugs, and even certain prescription medications.
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While impaired driving isn’t the leading cause of all crashes, it contributes to one in three fatal traffic accidents in Florida.
“If you get behind the wheel impaired, Florida law enforcement will hold you accountable,” stated FLHSMV Executive Director Dave Kerner. “With many safe alternatives to driving impaired, there is no excuse to threaten your life and others’ on the roadway. Impaired driving is 100% avoidable.”
FHP Colonel Gary Howze II echoed this sentiment, stating, “Impaired driving puts everyone at risk and contributes to 1/3 of all traffic fatalities. Florida State Troopers and other law enforcement partners will be on patrol to arrest those who choose to get behind the wheel impaired.”
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Key Campaign Points:
- Impairment is broader than alcohol: The campaign highlights that impairment can be caused by prescription medications, over-the-counter drugs, and marijuana, which significantly amplifies impairment when combined with other substances.
- Marijuana’s dangers: The campaign stresses that marijuana impairment is underreported and difficult to detect, with no specific impairment limit.
- Law enforcement vigilance: FHP and other agencies are actively training officers, including Drug Recognition Experts (DREs), to identify impaired drivers.
- Personal responsibility: Drivers, passengers, and bystanders are urged to take responsibility by preventing impaired driving through ride-sharing, designated drivers, or calling a sober friend.
- Spring Break focus: With Florida being a popular spring break destination, FHP will be assisting local agencies, including Miami Beach, to ensure safety and order during the season.
- Open container laws: Passengers can be cited for open containers, and drivers face more severe penalties.
- DUI penalties: The campaign reminds the public of severe DUI penalties, including license revocation, fines, and potential imprisonment.
“As President of the Florida Sheriffs Association, I fully support the Never Drive Impaired campaign, as it saves lives and makes our roads safer for everyone,” stated Charlotte County Sheriff and FSA President Bill Prummell.
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