Driving in Florida comes with its own set of challenges, from heavy traffic and unpredictable weather to strict traffic laws designed to keep everyone safe. Unfortunately, many drivers unknowingly make mistakes that lead to costly traffic violations, fines, and even points on their driving record.
Understanding the most common traffic mistakes can help you avoid them and maintain a clean driving history. If you do receive a ticket, taking a state-approved course through the best online traffic school Florida has to offer can help you dismiss points and keep your record clean.
In this article, we’ll explore the top traffic mistakes Florida drivers make, the consequences of these violations, and how to prevent them.
1. Speeding: The Most Common Traffic Violation
Why It Happens:
Many drivers exceed speed limits due to running late, not paying attention, or failing to adjust to speed changes in different zones.
Consequences:
- 3 points for driving up to 15 mph over the speed limit
- 4 points for driving 16 mph or more over the limit
- 6 points if speeding results in a crash
- Higher insurance premiums
How to Avoid It:
- Always be aware of posted speed limits.
- Use cruise control on highways to maintain a steady speed.
- Allow extra time for your trips so you don’t feel rushed.
If you receive a speeding ticket, enrolling in a driver education course Florida drivers rely on can help prevent points from being added to your record.
2. Running Red Lights and Stop Signs
Why It Happens:
- Rushing to beat the light
- Not coming to a complete stop at a stop sign
- Distracted driving
Consequences:
- 4 points added to your driving record
- Expensive fines, often exceeding $150
- Increased risk of accidents, especially at intersections
How to Avoid It:
- Approach intersections cautiously and prepare to stop when the light turns yellow.
- Always come to a full stop at stop signs, even if no other vehicles are around.
- Minimize distractions so you can focus on traffic signals.
Running a red light is one of the most dangerous driving mistakes. If cited, attending an online driving school Florida program can help you improve your skills and avoid future violations.
3. Failing to Yield the Right of Way
Why It Happens:
- Misunderstanding right-of-way laws
- Being impatient in high-traffic areas
- Failing to check for pedestrians or cyclists
Consequences:
- 3 to 4 points on your record
- Potential liability in an accident
- Increased insurance rates
How to Avoid It:
- Always yield to pedestrians at crosswalks.
- Follow right-of-way rules at stop signs and when merging.
- Double-check for other vehicles, bikes, and pedestrians before proceeding.
4. Distracted Driving: A Growing Problem
Why It Happens:
- Texting while driving
- Adjusting music or GPS while moving
- Eating or drinking behind the wheel
Consequences:
- 3 to 6 points if it results in a crash
- Hefty fines
- Increased risk of fatal accidents
How to Avoid It:
- Use hands-free devices if you must take a call.
- Set up your GPS and music before starting your trip.
- Pull over if you need to send a text or eat.
Distracted driving is preventable but remains a leading cause of accidents. Taking a driver education course Florida drivers trust can help reinforce safe driving habits.
5. Improper Lane Changes and Failing to Signal
Why It Happens:
- Not checking blind spots
- Forgetting to use turn signals
- Changing lanes in an intersection or prohibited area
Consequences:
- 3 points on your record
- Increased risk of sideswipe accidents
- Possible road rage incidents from frustrated drivers
How to Avoid It:
- Always use turn signals at least 100 feet before changing lanes.
- Check mirrors and blind spots before switching lanes.
- Avoid making lane changes in high-traffic intersections.
Taking an online driving school Florida course can help you learn the importance of proper signaling and lane discipline.
6. Driving Without a Valid License or Insurance
Why It Happens:
- Forgetting to renew a license
- Driving without required insurance coverage
- Moving to Florida without updating license and registration
Consequences:
- Fines up to $500
- Possible suspension of driving privileges
- Potential jail time for repeated offenses
How to Avoid It:
- Always check your license expiration date and renew on time.
- Ensure your vehicle is properly registered and insured.
- If you move to Florida, update your license and vehicle registration within 30 days.
7. Reckless and Aggressive Driving
Why It Happens:
- Road rage or impatience
- Speeding in heavy traffic
- Tailgating and weaving through lanes
Consequences:
- 4 points for reckless driving
- Higher fines and possible license suspension
- Increased risk of causing serious accidents
How to Avoid It:
- Stay calm and avoid aggressive behaviors, even in frustrating situations.
- Give other drivers plenty of space.
- Follow posted speed limits and avoid tailgating.
8. Failing to Move Over for Emergency Vehicles
Why It Happens:
- Unawareness of Florida’s Move Over Law
- Driving distracted and not noticing emergency vehicles
- Not knowing how to safely change lanes
Consequences:
- Fines and points on your license
- Increased risk of accidents involving emergency responders
How to Avoid It:
- Always move over one lane if possible when passing emergency vehicles.
- If unable to change lanes, slow down to at least 20 mph below the posted speed limit.
- Stay alert and listen for sirens when driving.
What to Do If You Get a Traffic Ticket in Florida
If you receive a traffic ticket, don’t panic. Florida allows drivers to complete a driver education course Florida program to reduce or eliminate the penalties associated with their violation.
How an Online Traffic School Can Help
- Prevents Points from Affecting Your Record – Completing a course prevents points from being added to your driving history.
- May Reduce Fines – Some courts allow fine reductions if you complete a course.
- Keeps Insurance Rates Low – Avoiding points can help prevent your insurance rates from increasing.
- Convenient and Affordable – Choosing the lowest price traffic school Florida has to offer allows you to complete the course affordably and on your schedule.
bdischool is the best online traffic school Florida drivers trust for state-approved courses. Whether you need a Basic Driver Improvement (BDI) course, an Advanced Driver Improvement (ADI) course, or a Traffic Law and Substance Abuse Education (TLSAE) course, you’ll find a fast, affordable option to meet your needs.
Final Thoughts
Traffic violations can be costly and have long-term effects on your driving record and insurance rates. By understanding the top mistakes that lead to traffic tickets—and taking steps to avoid them—you can become a safer and more responsible driver.
If you do receive a ticket, completing a course through an online driving school Florida program can help you minimize the impact. With the lowest price traffic school Florida drivers can find, bdischool makes it easy to fulfill your requirement and keep your record clean.
Stay safe on the road, follow Florida’s traffic laws, and take action to protect your driving privileges today!