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16-Years-Old Driving Laws In Florida

For many teenagers, the highlight of their 16th year is the prospect of obtaining a driver’s license. If you’re a 16-year-old in Florida or a parent of one, understanding the state’s driving laws is essential. Let’s navigate through the process of becoming a licensed driver in Florida’s flex traffic school, ensuring a smooth and informed journey.

Getting the Learner’s Permit

The first milestone in the journey to a driver’s license is acquiring a learner’s permit. In Florida, teenagers can apply for this permit at the age of 15. Consider talking help from flex traffic school services. However, before they can take the wheel, they must complete a Traffic Law and Substance Abuse Education (TLSAE) course, commonly known as the Florida Drug and Alcohol Course. This mandatory course educates young drivers on traffic laws and the dangers of driving under the influence of drugs and alcohol.

Once the TLSAE course is completed, the next step is to pass the written permit test, which assesses knowledge of road rules and traffic signs. Successfully passing this test earns the teen a learner’s permit, allowing them to practice driving under specific conditions.

Supervised Driving with the Learner’s Permit

With a learner’s permit, teens can start practicing their driving skills, but they cannot do so alone. Florida law requires that a licensed driver who is at least 21 years old, or a licensed sibling who is 18 years or older, accompany the permit holder in the front passenger seat. This period of supervised driving is crucial for gaining practical experience and building confidence on the road.

Advancing to the Intermediate License

At 16 years and 90 days old, teens can apply for an intermediate license, provided they meet certain criteria. They must have held their learner’s permit for at least one year without any traffic violations. Additionally, they need to complete 50 hours of driving practice, including 10 hours of nighttime driving, under the supervision of an all safety driving school. These hours are essential for honing vital driving skills in various conditions.

Privileges and Restrictions of the Intermediate License

Obtaining an intermediate license comes with new freedoms, but also certain restrictions. Teens can drive without a supervising adult, except between 11 p.m. and 6 a.m. During these hours, they must be accompanied by a licensed driver who is at least 21 years old, unless they are driving to or from work or a school-related activity. This curfew helps protect young drivers during the riskier nighttime hours.

Passenger Limitations for Safety

To enhance safety, Florida imposes restrictions on the number of passengers a young driver can have in the car. For the first three months of holding an intermediate license, a teen can only carry family members. After this period, they may transport one passenger under the age of 18 who is not a family member. These limitations aim to reduce distractions and promote safe driving practices. It is important to take master classes from a driving school in Bradenton.

The Path to a Full License

Florida’s driving laws emphasize responsible driving. To upgrade to a full, unrestricted license, a teen must be at least 18 years old and have held the intermediate license for at least one year without any traffic convictions. This requirement ensures that young drivers have sufficient experience and a track record of safe driving before gaining full driving privileges.

Safety First: Seat Belts and Cell Phones

Safety is paramount for all drivers, especially teenagers. Florida law mandates that all vehicle occupants must wear seat belts, regardless of their seating position. Additionally, teen drivers are prohibited from using any wireless communication devices, such as cell phones, while driving. These regulations are designed to minimize distractions and keep young drivers focused on the road.

Insurance Considerations for Teen Drivers

Adding a teenage driver to your auto insurance policy is not only a legal necessity but also a prudent measure to protect your family and assets. Although premiums may rise due to the higher risk associated with young drivers, many insurance companies offer discounts for good grades and completion of driver’s education courses. Exploring these options can help make insurance coverage more affordable.

Parental Involvement and Guidance

As a parent, your role is crucial in shaping your teen’s driving habits. Encourage open communication about the responsibilities of driving, the dangers of distractions, and the importance of adhering to traffic laws. By setting a positive example with your own driving behavior, you can influence your teen to adopt safe driving practices.

The Road Ahead: Safe and Responsible Driving

Embarking on the journey to becoming a licensed driver is a significant milestone for teenagers. By understanding and adhering to Florida’s driving laws for 16-year-olds, both parents and teens can navigate this exciting phase with confidence and responsibility. Remember, driving is a privilege that demands respect and careful consideration. Equip yourself with the help of driving schools in FL. Take knowledge and foster a culture of safety ensuring that this new chapter is as thrilling as it is secure.

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Driver Fatigue: How To Stay Awake & Ensure Safe Driving?

Driver fatigue is a significant yet often overlooked issue that affects many of us on the road. That creeping exhaustion that can make every mile feel like a marathon isn’t just an inconvenience—it’s a genuine safety risk. Fortunately, with some practical strategies and insights from the Florida Driver Improvement Course, you can effectively manage driver fatigue and keep our roads safer.

The Serious Impact of Driver Fatigue

Imagine this scenario: you’ve been driving for hours, your eyelids feel heavy, and that coffee you drank a while ago has lost its kick. Sound familiar? This is driver fatigue, and it’s a serious problem. Studies have shown that driving while fatigued can be as dangerous as driving under the influence of alcohol. Fatigue slows your reaction time, clouds your judgment, and increases the risk of accidents. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that drowsy driving is responsible for thousands of crashes, injuries, and fatalities each year.

Recognizing the Signs of Driver Fatigue

Understanding the signs of driver fatigue is crucial. Common indicators include frequent yawning, difficulty focusing, heavy eyelids, and drifting in and out of your lane. If you catch yourself experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s time to take action. Having Florida driver’s license won’t help you in this regard.

Effective Strategies to Combat Driver Fatigue

Now, let’s delve into some effective strategies to combat driver fatigue. These tips can help you stay alert and focused, ensuring a safer driving experience for yourself and others.

Prioritize Quality Sleep

Getting sufficient sleep is fundamental to staying alert on the road. Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep before embarking on a long drive. Establishing a regular sleep schedule can help regulate your body’s internal clock, making you less prone to fatigue.

Take Regular Breaks

Long drives can be mentally and physically exhausting. To combat this, plan to take breaks every two hours. Use these breaks to stretch, walk around, and get some fresh air. Short, frequent breaks can help keep your mind and body alert.

Stay Hydrated and Eat Well

Keeping hydrated is essential for maintaining energy levels. Drink plenty of water and avoid excessive caffeine, which can lead to energy crashes. Opt for healthy snacks like fruits, nuts, and whole grains to keep your blood sugar stable and energy levels consistent.

Share Driving Duties

If you’re traveling with a companion, take turns driving. Sharing the responsibility allows each driver to rest and recuperate, reducing the risk of fatigue. Even short breaks from driving can significantly improve alertness. Learn to drive with your companion and opt for defensive driving courses in Florida.

Engage Your Mind

Keep your mind active by listening to engaging music, podcasts, or audiobooks. Singing along to your favorite tunes or mentally challenging yourself with interesting content can help stave off drowsiness.

Use Technology Wisely

Modern vehicles often come equipped with various driver-assistance technologies. Utilize features like lane departure warnings and adaptive cruise control to reduce the mental strain of long drives. However, never rely solely on these technologies; they are meant to assist, not replace, attentive driving.

The Role of Driver Improvement Courses

Driver improvement courses, like those offered in Florida, provide valuable insights into managing driver fatigue and other critical aspects of safe driving. These courses for safe driver Florida license emphasize defensive driving techniques, helping you recognize potential hazards and react appropriately. By understanding the importance of staying alert and implementing these strategies, you can become a safer, more responsible driver.

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Rebuilding Your Driving Record After a DUI: A Comprehensive Guide

A DUI conviction can significantly impact your driving record and overall life. The journey to rebuild your driving record after such an incident may seem daunting. However, with a strategic approach, determination, safety tips from driving schools Florida Online, you can navigate this challenging process successfully. Here are some detailed steps and tips to help you get back on track.

Understanding the Impact of a DUI on Your Record

Before embarking on the journey to rebuild your driving record, it’s essential to comprehend the extent of the damage caused by a DUI. Depending on your state’s regulations, a DUI can remain on your driving record for a substantial period—up to 75 years in some cases. This mark can significantly affect your insurance premiums, employment opportunities, and overall driving privileges. Understanding these consequences is crucial, as it provides the motivation needed to take the necessary steps toward improving your record. It’s important that you know every detail of your state regulation from a traffic school in Saratosa.

Addressing Fines and Penalties Promptly

One of the first steps in rebuilding your driving record is to address any fines or penalties associated with your DUI conviction. Promptly paying any fines, fees, or restitution required by the court demonstrates your commitment to taking responsibility for your actions. Delaying these payments can lead to additional interest charges and further complications. By being proactive, you show the court and other authorities that you are serious about rectifying your mistake and moving forward.

Completing Court-Mandated Programs and Courses

Many states mandate that individuals convicted of a DUI complete specific courses or programs, such as alcohol awareness classes or drug and alcohol treatment programs. Additionally, if your conviction includes other serious offenses like reckless driving or speeding, similar requirements may apply. Successfully completing these programs not only fulfills legal obligations but also equips you with valuable knowledge and skills to avoid future infractions. Ensure you adhere to all court-mandated requirements to demonstrate your commitment to rehabilitation.

Retaking Your Driving Exam

In most states, regaining your driving privileges after a DUI conviction involves retaking the driver’s license exam. This process typically includes both written and road tests. Studying diligently for these exams is crucial, as passing them convincingly shows that you are knowledgeable about traffic laws and capable of driving responsibly. Prepare yourself thoroughly from drive safe classes in Parrish. This can boost your confidence and help ensure you meet the necessary standards for reinstatement.

Obtaining SR-22 Insurance Coverage

After a DUI conviction, you may be required to obtain SR-22 insurance coverage. This form of insurance, also known as a Certificate of Financial Responsibility, verifies that you have the minimum required auto insurance coverage. Securing SR-22 insurance is often a prerequisite for reinstating your driving privileges. By obtaining this coverage, you demonstrate to the court and insurance companies that you are financially responsible and committed to adhering to legal requirements.

Practicing Patience and Responsibility

Rebuilding your driving record is a gradual process that requires patience and responsibility. Rushing through the steps or neglecting essential details can lead to setbacks and prolonged difficulties. Be patient with yourself and others involved in the process, including legal professionals and court personnel. Taking the time to thoroughly understand and comply with all requirements ensures a smoother and more effective reinstatement process.

Taking Responsibility and Understanding Safe Driving Practices

Taking responsibility for your past mistakes is a crucial part of rebuilding your driving record. Acknowledging the severity of a DUI conviction and the potential dangers associated with impaired driving underscores the importance of adopting safe and responsible driving habits. Understanding traffic laws and regulations, practicing defensive driving, and committing to never driving under the influence again are vital steps in maintaining a clean record moving forward. Take a drive course online to achieve helpful insights.

Additional Tips for a Successful Rebuild

Seek Legal Advice: Consult with an attorney who specializes in DUI cases. They can provide valuable guidance on navigating the legal requirements and offer strategies for mitigating the impact on your record.

Stay Informed: Keep yourself updated on any changes in DUI laws and regulations in your state. Staying informed ensures you remain compliant and aware of your obligations.

Maintain a Clean Record: Avoid any further traffic violations or infractions. A consistent history of safe driving will support your efforts to rebuild your record.

Conclusion

Rebuilding your driving record after a DUI is undoubtedly challenging, but it is achievable with dedication and a systematic approach. By understanding the impact of your DUI, addressing fines and penalties promptly, completing required courses, retaking your driving exam, obtaining SR-22 insurance, and practicing patience and responsibility, you can gradually restore your driving privileges and improve your record. Remember, taking responsibility for your actions and committing to safe driving practices are essential steps in this journey. Stay focused, be patient, and make informed decisions to successfully rebuild your driving record.

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The Significance Of Turn Signals When You’re Driving

Driving without using turn signals is a hazardous practice that endangers the safety of both drivers and pedestrians. In Florida, driver education places a strong emphasis on the necessity of signaling intentions while driving. Failing to use turn signals can lead to confusion and unexpected maneuvers, significantly increasing the likelihood of accidents and road mishaps. This is why Florida’s safe driver course means a lot for all learners.

The Role of Turn Signals in Road Safety

One of the fundamental lessons taught in driving classes is the critical role of turn signals in promoting road safety. Proper signaling provides essential information to other road users, enabling them to anticipate the driver’s actions and adjust their driving accordingly. Without this form of communication, the risk of collisions and misunderstandings escalates, underscoring the importance of signaling during maneuvers.

Driver Education Emphasizes Signaling

If you are prepping up for all Florida safety institute road test, take assistance from the instructors. They actually stress the importance of using turn signals as a fundamental aspect of defensive driving. Signaling not only helps in obeying traffic laws but also in creating a predictable driving environment. This predictability reduces the chances of sudden lane changes or turns that can catch other drivers off guard. By integrating this habit into their driving practices, motorists can contribute to overall road safety and prevent avoidable accidents.

Practical Training and Real-World Simulations

Professional driving instructors providing safe driving course in Florida, highlight the significance of turn signals during training sessions. Through hands-on instruction and real-world simulations, students gain a deep understanding of the potential consequences of failing to signal. These training methods help learners grasp the importance of signaling in preventing accidents. By practicing proper signaling techniques, drivers can enhance their awareness and responsiveness on the road, ultimately making them safer and more responsible motorists.

The Risks of Not Using Turn Signals

Driving without using turn signals poses numerous risks. When drivers fail to signal, it creates uncertainty and unpredictability on the road. Other drivers and pedestrians are left guessing the driver’s intentions, which can lead to dangerous situations. For instance, a driver might suddenly change lanes without signaling, causing the vehicle behind to swerve or brake abruptly, potentially leading to a collision. Similarly, failing to signal before making a turn can result in rear-end accidents or side-impact collisions, both of which can cause serious injuries.

Turn Signals and Defensive Driving

Incorporating the habit of using turn signals into everyday driving is a crucial component of defensive driving. 4 hours driving course online and defensive driving is about anticipating potential hazards and taking proactive measures to avoid them. Turn signals play a vital role in this by informing other road users of your intentions, allowing them to react appropriately. This communication helps in maintaining a smooth flow of traffic and reduces the likelihood of accidents caused by sudden or unexpected maneuvers.

Promoting a Safer Driving Environment

Consistently using turn signals is a simple yet effective way to promote a safer driving environment. It enhances communication between drivers, reduces misunderstandings, and helps prevent accidents. By adhering to this practice, drivers not only protect themselves but also contribute to the safety of others on the road.

Enroll in Defensive Driving Courses

To ensure your safety and the safety of others, it is crucial to consistently use turn signals while driving. The instructors offer comprehensive defensive driving courses designed to teach the importance of signaling and other essential driving techniques. They are quite experienced instructors provide hands-on training and real-world simulations to prepare you for safe and responsible driving.

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Keith Perry’s Bill on Left Lane

The push to make the left lane on major Florida Highways a passing lane only cruising into the fast lane this year.

The bill just cleared the full House Thursday and now needs to be passed by the Florida Senate. Seemingly everyone has an opinion on highway drivers who cruise in the left lane and refuse to move over. One of the drivers from Jacksonville – Win Thomas feels that it’s kind of a selfish decision. Another Tennessee resident Loraine Monroe said – “I can’t stand them,” when she stopped by the Jacksonville rest stop on her way back North.

After spluttering out last year, the push to prohibit left lane cruising is back with a full tank of gas. As per the bill sponsor state Senator Keith Perry, she said that it isn’t a fast lane but it’s moving along.

The bill passed by Perry would make Florida the 9th state in need of left lanes on major roads with defined speed limits of 65 miles an hour or higher. This should be maintained in passing lanes only. As per the recent state in Florida, it is possible to cruise in the left lane but you have to move over in order to allow faster traffic pass.

Perry said that is a very common situation but it hardly happens and the results can be fatal. She added, “last year we had 247 instances where people either incapacitated or deaths that happened from improper passing on the righthand side on someone’s blindside.”

Also, there were more than 17,000 accidents caused due to improper passing during the very same span of five year.

As per the newly introduced Perry’s bill, left lane cruisers can now be slapped with a minimum of $60 ticket and max penalties can even reach $158. In contrast to Graham Godfrey’s native country – England, people may drive on the left side of the road, but they know well how to stay safe on the left lane. The left lane is specifically used for passing lane.

Graham Godfrey, during his vacation, experienced some culture shock when driving the left lane on Florida roads. He then told – if Perry’s bill passes, he will surely make another visit to his current home Delaware. Godfrey said “Yeah, I’ll be more inclined to come back I think.”

As per Senator Perry, she expects that the bill will reach the Governor’s desk by the end of next week. If signed into law, the change would take effect on July 1, 2025, to give drivers time to learn about and adjust to the new rules of the road.

For more information, kindly refer to the link shared here – https://www.actionnewsjax.com/news/local/i-cant-stand-them-bill-banning-left-lane-cruising-florida-racing-towards-finish-line/V6GOUVMRT5FVTAJXUHKG7NGDXA

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Driver arrested after Bradenton motorcyclist killed in Manatee County crash

WEST SAMOSET, Fla. — A man is dead and a woman was arrested following a crash involving a motorcycle in Manatee County, Florida Highway Patrol troopers said. 

The crash happened just after 4:30 p.m. Tuesday on U.S. 41 near the area of 33rd Avenue East in West Samoset. Troopers say the 56-year-old motorcyclist from Bradenton was going east within the driveway access of a nearby shopping center. In this area, 1st Street is another name for U.S. 41. 

At the same time, the 31-year-old driver from Bradenton was going south on the inside lane of U.S. 41 approaching the same driveway access. 

The motorcyclist turned right onto U.S. 41 in front of the 31-year-old’s car. This resulted in the front of the car hitting the rear of the motorcycle. 

Because of this, the 56-year-old man was ejected from his motorcycle and landed on the southbound inside lane of U.S. 41. The man died at the scene. 

Troopers say the 31-year-old woman was arrested for driving a car without a driver’s license and was booked into the Manatee County Jail. 

Credit: 10 Tampa Bay

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Embrace The Grandeur Of Florida This New Year’s Eve 

Recklessness and erratic behavior enhance the cases of distracted driving. Hence, before settling on the roads, undertake an advanced driver improvement course Florida.

Florida is a bright paradise with sparkling waters, 70-degree days, and an extended flip-flop season. It’s a welcome respite from the rain, winter, and gloom that befall the Northern states. Florida is known for providing ample amounts of vitamin D, but not every part of the state offers endless beach relaxation. Each of its most popular locations has unique attractions, including historical buildings, cultural centers, and, well, occasionally, a ton of beach fun. People who reside in the chilly parts of the USA or Canada have the desire to flee the winter blues and soak up the warm Florida sunshine. An annual assessment from the Advocates for Highway and Auto Safety lists Florida as one of the states with the highest driving risks. Hence, to drive safely, it is crucial to undertake an advanced driver improvement course Florida from a renowned institution.
Visit St. Augustine

Depending on the area you visit in December, Florida’s crowds will differ. The season’s buzz will be felt in most of Florida, particularly in medium-sized and larger cities. With its original Spanish foundation dating back to 1565, St. Augustine is regarded as the oldest American city. Its exquisitely preserved homes and structures are still recognizable as examples of Spanish architecture and history. This historic city will be illuminated during the Christmas season with Nights of Lights. To witness the stunning lights draped over buildings from the rooftop to the foundation, just take your car and drive over 20 blocks in the Historic District.

Soak In The Miami Beaches

Miami is a cultural hotspot with enough to offer those seeking it. Undoubtedly, this city boasts an abundance of stunning beaches. Yet, what really sets it apart from Florida’s other beach towns is its classy atmosphere, influenced by the Caribbean and Latin America. See a live salsa show, peruse vibrant exhibits of Haitian art, or eat at fiery seafood shacks. Due to its year-round high temperatures, Miami is the most popular location for travelers seeking to escape the cold in December. With the water temperature reaching 74.7°F, the beaches in this area are quite popular with tourists, so be prepared for some crowding.

Stay In Celebration

Tampa, St. Petersburg, and Clearwater are the cities that make up the Florida region known as Tampa Bay. Outsiders continue to see this region as an easily accessible collection of cities despite its expansion. The biggest city in Tampa Bay, Tampa is best known for the Tampa Bay Lightning’s home, the annual Gasparilla Flotilla, and the ancient Cuban culture of Ybor City. The Florida Aquarium hosts Santa visits, the Straz Center presents The Nutcracker, Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park becomes Winter Village, and the Tampa Riverwalk has a lighted boat procession during Christmas.

Drive To Florida Keys

The Florida Keys are a network of tropical islands surrounded by warm water that offers endless aquatic activities, even though they lack the expansive, sandy beaches that are characteristic of the Sunshine State. Experience the thrill of jet skiing, feeding a hungry tarpon fish at Robbie’s Marina, or snorkeling with tropical fish at Key Largo’s John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. Discover the legendary past of the region after you’re back on solid ground. See Ernest Hemingway’s 1930s home, which is now a museum and cat sanctuary. In Florida, reckless driving is a serious issue. So, before starting your journey, be equipped with a safety council mature driver course Florida to avoid all the hassles.

Shop At Affordable West Palm Beach

West Palm Beach is located just over the lagoon, has a more laid-back vibe, and costs that the other 99% can afford. Whereas, Palm Beach is known for being a place for the remaining one percent. Explore all four of the downtown retail districts to your heart’s content. You can shop for unique gifts at the funky boutiques at Northwood Village or redecorate with chic home furnishings at Clematis Street. The South Florida Fair, the best-rated fair in the state, takes place in West Palm Beach for two weeks in January. Enjoy its deep-fried snacks, themed exhibits, and rides that defy gravity.

Enroll In A Safety Council Mature Driver Course Florida

There are New Year’s Eve celebrations in every city in the state; some are grandiose, some are more low-key, but they’re all entertaining and joyful for everybody. Moreover, if you choose to drive your way, then it adds the freedom of adventure. As already mentioned, Florida is the second-worst state in the nation for distracted driving cases. So, it’s essential to undertake the first time driver package Florida from Drive Florida Safe Driving School before setting out for your holidays. Every background and ability level is catered for in their driving classes. Furthermore, they are committed to using an engaging and cutting-edge teaching methodology. Just enroll yourself and be confident behind the wheel.

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Can drivers pass a red light that doesn’t turn green? What Florida law says about that

We don’t have much patience on the road in Miami. Drivers want to be on the move despite gridlock, slow-poke tourists and people paying more attention to their cellphone than the light that just turned green.

But what happens if that red light doesn’t change to green? Is it broken? Did it skip a cycle? Or are you just impatient?

And is it legal in Florida to ignore a light that seems to be stuck on red, and pass through an intersection?

Here’s what to know:

What should you do if a traffic light doesn’t change?


There is no law in Florida allowing a driver to pass a solid red light that doesn’t change to green. That means you are risking a ticket if you run the red, even if the coast is clear. One thing to know: A light that doesn’t seem to change may just be taking longer than you’re used to, or have patience for — it doesn’t mean it’s broken.

Some states have what is called a “Dead Red Law,” which allows bicyclists and motorcyclists to run a red that isn’t triggered by their vehicle. Florida isn’t one of them, according to the Murphy Law Group in Sarasota.

If a red light isn’t changing to green, police and traffic advocates suggest pulling up to the intersection line, then rolling your vehicle back and forth to trip the light sensor in the pavement. If that doesn’t work, turn right on red when the coast is clear. Then report the faulty light to 511. A sensor may not recognize a bicycle, motorcycle or lighter vehicle, or just be faulty no matter the vehicle size. “I’m not going to tell you to just proceed through the intersection,” Trooper Steve Montiero told Orlando TV station WKMG. “What I will say if you can make a right and avoid this intersection and maybe make a U-turn later on down the road — that would be your best bet.”

If you do pass what you think is a stuck light and get caught, you can take it to court. “Unfortunately, ignorance of a law is not a good defense in most cases,” according to the Murphy Law Group. “However, your attorney may be able to help you defend against the citation, so you can avoid having it on your license. If a light is broken, or if the trigger system was not working, then it might have been reasonable to continue on safely. This is something to discuss with your attorney if you’re cited for running a red light that wasn’t working properly.”

What should you do if a traffic light is not working but flashing?

Florida law is clear on what drivers have to do if they approach an intersection with a flashing red or yellow light:

Red: According to Florida law, drivers who approach a flashing red light need to stop, check for traffic, then proceed through the intersection.

Yellow: Drivers who approach a flashing yellow light must proceed with caution, Florida law says.

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One in six teens admits to drowsy driving, survey finds: It’s ‘impaired driving, unequivocally’

Many teens say they’ve driven while they feel drowsy — and they believe that it’s not as dangerous as driving while drunk or distracted.

That’s just one of the findings revealed in the 2023 Drowsy Driving Survey from the National Sleep Foundation (NSF) in Washington, D.C., which explored 1,124 American teens’ attitudes and behaviors about drowsy driving.

One in six teens reported having driven while drowsy during their first two years behind the wheel, the survey found.

A vast majority (95%) of teens acknowledged that drowsy driving is dangerous — but they don’t think it’s as dangerous as drunk driving, drugged driving or distracted driving.

“It is important to note that drowsy driving is impaired driving, unequivocally — just like drunk, drugged and distracted driving,” said Joseph Dzierzewski, PhD, vice president of research and scientific affairs for the NSF, in a statement to Fox News Digital. 

As far as the reasons for drowsy driving, a majority of teens cited schoolwork and jobs as the biggest reasons for their sleep deprivation.

“Drowsy driving is impaired driving, unequivocally — just like drunk, drugged and distracted driving.”

Teens who have jobs said they were twice as likely to have driven while fatigued, to the point that they “had a hard time keeping their eyes open.”

Study limitations

The survey did have one chief limitation, Dzierzewski noted — which is the potential underreporting of drowsy driving. 

“However, this would mean that the actual rates of drowsy driving are even higher than what we found, suggesting the problem may be more widespread than currently believed,” he added.

“Something we found surprising is that even though motor vehicle crashes are the second leading cause of death among teenagers, most teens rated drunk, drugged and distracted driving as more dangerous,” Dzierzewski noted.

“Clearly, there is an opportunity for more education.”

ONLINE DANGERS ARE RAMPANT FOR KIDS TODAY — WHY PARENTS MUST KEEP THEM CYBER SAFE

Drowsy driving is entirely preventable, Dzierzewski said, emphasizing the need to teach young drivers about the importance of getting the necessary amount of sleep before operating a vehicle.

In a corresponding survey of 1,349 adults, the NSF found that the adults were even more likely to drive while drowsy — with six in 10 reporting having done so.

Tips for safe driving

Drowsy driving prevention is “everyone’s responsibility,” Dzierzewski emphasized.

“Always be on the lookout for drowsy driving warning signs when behind the wheel,” he advised. 

Some of those signs include having a hard time focusing on the road, yawning, blinking frequently, having trouble remembering the last few miles driven, having difficulty maintaining lanes, tailgating — or getting irritated with common traffic occurrences.

If any of those situations occur, it’s important to pull over to a safe place, said Dzierzewski, and get some rest, stretch or drink a caffeinated beverage.

“Only return to the road when you are sure it is safe to drive,” he said.

LACK OF SLEEP IS COMPROMISING THE MENTAL HEALTH OF 78% OF ADULTS, SURVEY FINDS

It’s also essential to get the recommended amount of sleep the night before your trip, said Dzierzewski. 

NSF recommends seven to nine hours of sleep per night for adults and eight to 10 hours for teens.

“While [drinking] caffeine, rolling down the windows and playing loud music might help you get safely to your destination, they are not a substitute for sleep.”

“Plan long trips with a companion who can not only look for early warning signs of fatigue, but also help drive when needed,” Dzierzewski suggested. 

“A good driving companion is someone who stays awake to talk to you and will be aware of your alertness.”

When on a long trip, he advises scheduling regular stops every 100 miles or two hours.

“Remember, while [drinking] caffeine, rolling down the windows and playing loud music might help you get safely to your destination, they are not a substitute for sleep.”

Roughly 20% of all motor vehicle crashes are related to drowsy driving, according to the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety.

Among drowsy driving-related crashes, 20% of them involved teens and young adults aged 16 to 24.

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MIRROR, MIRROR Drivers are just realizing the lifesaving ‘split mirror trick’ which shows you when to safely change lanes

THERE are numerous ways you can use your car’s review mirror to easily enhance your driving experience.

A YouTube channel recently shared a huge tip that drivers can try with the rearview mirrors on their car to ensure clear and safe lane switches.

The YouTube channel known as @dashishuoche regularly shares car knowledge with its subscribers of nearly 850,000.

In a video, the person who runs the page suggested adjusting both mirrors to where the lower corner of them are lined up with the handles on the front doors to successfully use the simple mirror trick.

Once you have both your car mirrors properly adjusted, the YouTuber said you’ll have the best view of roadside curbs and cars coming up behind you.

One of the tips shared in the video involves splitting your rearview mirror into two even left and right sections mentally.

“It is safer to change lanes and make U-turns when the vehicle behind is on the right half,” the video informed.

“When it appears on the left half, it means that the car behind is very close to you.”

The clip went on to warn drivers, that if the car behind you is on the left side of the rearview mirror: “Don’t change lanes.”

The helpful YouTube video has been viewed nearly 5million times.

In the comments, a viewer said: “No matter what all you need is experience.”

Someone else chimed in saying: “Nice tricks.”

They added: “I would be carefull though, to take into consideration the measurements of your own car in order to use them.”

“Now I have to remember to get a marker to split my mirror into half,” a YouTuber said jokingly.