As Orlando continues to grow and evolve, so do the rules of the road. New traffic laws in Florida are regularly introduced to improve safety, reduce accidents, and keep up with changing technology. For Orlando drivers, staying informed about new traffic laws introduced this year is crucial to staying within the law and avoiding car accidents.
Recent New Traffic Laws in Florida
Move Over Law Expansion
Florida’s Move Over Law has been expanded under new traffic laws. Previously, this law required drivers to move over or slow down for emergency vehicles. The new traffic laws now include utility service vehicles and sanitation vehicles. This expansion helps protect workers who often operate in dangerous roadside conditions.
Right Turn on Red Rule Update
Another significant change in 2024 pertains to the right turn on red (RTOR) rule. The updated regulations require drivers to come to a complete stop before making a right turn at a red light. Additionally, drivers must yield to pedestrians and cyclists before turning, ensuring that crosswalks are clear. This change aims to reduce accidents at intersections, particularly in urban areas with heavy pedestrian traffic.
Autonomous Vehicle Regulations
One of the most groundbreaking new traffic laws regarding autonomous vehicles took effect on July 1, 2024. This law allows fully autonomous cars to operate without a human operator physically present in the vehicle. Under these new traffic laws, the vehicle’s automated driving system is considered the operator when engaged.
The regulations stipulate that if an automated driving system fails, the vehicle must be able to achieve a “Minimal Risk Condition,” (MRC) such as stopping safely and activating hazard lights. According to Science Direct, an MRC is “A stable, stopped condition to which a user or an ADS may bring a vehicle after performing the dynamic driving task fallback to reduce the risk of a crash when a given trip cannot or should not be continued” (SAE International, 2021). In essence, an MRC is a safe state that the vehicle can be put into when it’s not feasible or safe to continue the trip.
Racing on Highways Law Changes
New laws regarding racing on highways — also called street racing — went into effect in July 2024. Penalties for racing, stunt driving, and related activities have been significantly increased, with first-time fines rising from $1,000 to a maximum of $2,000. Subsequent offenses will lead to harsher penalties, including felony charges and mandatory driver’s license revocations. This law also introduces penalties for impeding emergency vehicles during such activities.
Impact of New Traffic Laws on Orlando Drivers
These new traffic laws have several implications for drivers in Orlando:
- Increased Awareness: With new traffic laws comes the need for increased awareness. Orlando drivers must stay informed about these changes to avoid unintentional violations.
- Safer Roads: In addressing issues like distracted driving and expanding protection for roadside workers, these new traffic laws aim to make Orlando’s roads safer for everyone by preventing car accidents.
- Potential Fines: Violating these new traffic laws can result in fines and points on your driving record. Being aware of and following the new rules can help avoid these penalties.
- Changing Behavior: Some new traffic laws, like the texting ban, require drivers to change long-standing habits. This may take time, but it is crucial for compliance and safety.
Orlando Car Accident Attorney
If you’ve been injured in a car accident that wasn’t your fault, call today at 407-846-2240 for a free consultation with an Orlando car accident attorney at the Martinez Manglardi personal injury law firm. We have convenient locations throughout Central Florida. These include Orlando, Kissimmee, Apopka, Palm Bay, Ocala, and Haines City.
