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TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) joins the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) and its division of the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP), as well as transportation and safety agencies across Alabama, Georgia, South Carolina, and Tennessee, in conducting Operation Southern Slow Down. This annual multi-state campaign, which is taking place July 13-18, 2026, focuses on reducing speed-related crashes through a combination of increased enforcement and public education.

As part of Florida’s efforts, this campaign encourages drivers to take responsibility for making safe decisions along every mile of the state’s transportation system by slowing down, following speed limits, and looking out for the safety of others on the road. Operation Southern Slow Down contributes to Florida’s overarching transportation safety initiative, Target Zero, which aims to reduce traffic-related fatalities and serious injuries down to zero.

“Unsafe driver behaviors like speeding are a major contributor to fatalities and serious injuries on our roadways,” said Florida Department of Transportation Secretary Jared W. Perdue, P.E. “Remember that your actions behind the wheel can have life-altering impacts: slow down and drive responsibly to help get everyone to their destinations safely.”

“Speeding is a conscious choice, and it’s one that costs lives,” said FHP Colonel Gary Howze. “Operation Southern Slowdown brings Florida law enforcement and public safety partners across the Southeast United States together around a shared commitment to safer roads through increased enforcement, direct public outreach, and a unified message that reckless driving will not be tolerated. This initiative ensures that those who choose to drive recklessly are held accountable for putting others at risk.”

Speeding continues to serve as a significant factor in traffic fatalities across Florida, attributing to approximately six percent of all traffic fatalities according to the 2024 Florida Traffic Crash Facts report. Targeted enforcement and education initiatives like Operation Southern Slow Down, now in its 9th year, are vital in Florida’s efforts to drive these statistics down and reduce dangerous driving behaviors, like speeding, to help prevent crashes.

“Speed limits are in place to protect everyone traveling on our roads and highways, and enforcement of speeding and all traffic laws has proven to save lives in our region and nation,” said Allen Poole, director of the Georgia Governor’s Office of Highway Safety. “The goal for ‘Operation Southern Slow Down’ is not to write tickets but to get more drivers to see that traveling at slower and safer speeds prevents families and friends from losing loved ones in crashes that are preventable.”

SAFETY TIPS AND REMINDERS

• Faster speeds require longer stopping distances.
• Stay out of the far-left lane except when passing.
• Stopping distance quadruples when you double your speed.
• Drivers of larger vehicles need more time and distance to stop, especially on wet or uneven pavement.
• Slow down when approaching curves and brakes before entering.
• Set a good example for young drivers by following speed limits.
• Always wear your seat belt and ensure all passengers are buckled.
• Use extra caution in construction and school zones.
• Plan and allow extra travel time to avoid the temptation to speed.

What Is Distracted Driving?

Distracted driving is any activity that diverts attention from driving, including talking or texting on your phone, eating and drinking, talking to people in your vehicle, fiddling with the stereo, entertainment or navigation system — anything that takes your attention away from the task of safe driving.

Texting is the most alarming distraction. Sending or reading a text takes your eyes off the road for 5 seconds. At 55 mph, that’s like driving the length of an entire football field with your eyes closed.

You cannot drive safely unless the task of driving has your full attention. Any non-driving activity you engage in is a potential distraction and increases your risk of crashing.

Consequences

Using a cell phone while driving creates enormous potential for deaths and injuries on U.S. roads. In 2024, 3,208 people were killed in motor vehicle crashes involving distracted drivers.

Get Involved

We can all play a part in the fight to save lives by ending distracted driving.

Teens

Teens can be the best messengers with their peers, so we encourage them to speak up when they see a friend driving while distracted, to have their friends sign a pledge to never drive distracted, to become involved in their local Students Against Destructive Decisions chapter, and to share messages on social media that remind their friends, family, and neighbors not to make the deadly choice to drive distracted.

Parents

Parents first have to lead by example — by never driving distracted — as well as have a talk with their young driver about distraction and all of the responsibilities that come with driving. Have everyone in the family sign the pledge to commit to distraction-free driving. Remind your teen driver that in states with graduated driver licensing (GDL), a violation of distracted-driving laws could mean a delayed or suspended license.

Educators and Employers

Educators and employers can play a part, too. Spread the word at your school or workplace about the dangers of distracted driving. Ask your students to commit to distraction-free driving or set a company policy on distracted driving.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. ~ The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV), and its division, the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP), has launched its summer Arrive Alive public safety campaign, a two month statewide effort running through July 31, 2026, to keep Floridians safe during one of the most patriotic seasons in our nation’s history. As communities prepare to celebrate America’s 250th birthday with 4th of July festivities, barbecues, fireworks, and road trips, FLHSMV reminds all Floridians that safety is always in season. Motorists are urged to stay alert behind the wheel, follow all traffic laws, avoid reckless or impaired driving, and make smart choices so everyone can Arrive Alive—One Safe Drive at a Time.

The data tells us summer is statistically our safest stretch of road, but we want to remind you that lower risk is not the same as no risk. State Troopers and law enforcement partners remain committed to keeping every mile of Florida’s highway safe, 365 days a year.

“As Floridians prepare to celebrate this incredible milestone in our nation’s history, we want nothing more than for every family to enjoy the summer season and arrive at every destination safely,” said FLHSMV Executive Director Dave Kerner. “The Arrive Alive campaign reflects our unwavering commitment to the millions of people who travel Florida’s roads every single day. We ask all Floridians and visitors to do their part by staying alert, staying sober, and making smart choices behind the wheel this summer.”

“The men and women of Florida Highway Patrol are committed to protecting every person on Florida’s roads, and there is no better time to reaffirm that commitment than as our nation celebrates 250 years of freedom,” said FHP Colonel Gary Howze. “We will be visible, we will be vigilant, and we will hold accountable anyone who chooses to endanger others through impaired or reckless driving.”

“With America250 celebrations and FIFA World Cup events bringing hundreds of thousands of visitors to the Free State of Florida this summer, responsible behaviors behind the wheel are more important than ever to help everyone get to their destinations safely,” said Florida Department of Transportation Secretary Jared W. Perdue, P.E. “Let’s all do our part to keep Florida’s roads safe this summer as we celebrate the freedoms of our great nation.”

“Summer travel brings increased traffic to every corner of our state, from beaches and theme parks to hometown celebrations and neighborhood barbecues. Florida’s sheriffs and our policing partners remain committed to keeping our roadways safe throughout the busy summer travel season,” said Florida Sheriffs Association President and Seminole County Sheriff Dennis Lemma. “The message behind Arrive Alive is simple but important: one safe drive at a time. Staying patient, attentive, and responsible behind the wheel can save lives.”

“The Florida Police Chiefs Association is proud to stand alongside the Florida Highway Patrol and our public safety partners in encouraging everyone traveling Florida’s roadways this summer to slow down, stay alert, and make safety their top priority,” said FPCA President and Fort Walton Beach Police Chief Robert Bage. “As we celebrate a significant milestone in our nation’s history, we are reminded that the freedoms we enjoy are strengthened by personal responsibility, mutual respect, and consideration for one another. Whether traveling by car, motorcycle, bicycle, or on foot, each of us plays a role in creating safer roadways for our families, neighbors, and visitors. On behalf of more than 1,000 law enforcement executives across Florida, we encourage all Floridians and visitors to make safe choices, look out for one another, and Arrive Alive.”

Statewide crash data compassing all reported crashes between January 2022 and April 2026 shows that June and July consistently rank among the safest months of the year, accounting for just over 15% of annual crashes and slightly more than 14% of yearly traffic fatalities. These months represent the lowest proportion of fatal crashes of any period throughout the year — a trend FHP hopes to sustain through increased enforcement, public education, and community awareness. Even during the year’s safest months, impaired driving remains a persistent and preventable threat. In June alone, troopers documented 1,801 impaired driving crashes out of 215,103 total crashes statewide. In July, that number climbed to 1,930 out of 216,612. Behind every statistic is a life, a family, and a choice that could have been made differently. We urge all motorists to plan ahead, designate a sober driver, and never get behind the wheel impaired. As the summer season gets underway, State Troopers and our partners will maintain a visible presence on Florida’s highways, ready to assist drivers in need and hold accountable those who put others at risk. Floridians are encouraged to do their part — buckle up, slow down, put the phone down, and drive sober — so that every journey this summer ends where it’s supposed to: safely at home.

For more information and safety tips, visit FLHSMV.gov/ArriveAlive.

ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. – The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) opened a new ramp system at the Interstate 4 (I-4) and Sand Lake Road (State Road (S.R.) 482) This new traffic pattern gives motorists traveling from westbound I-4 and westbound Sand Lake Road a more direct connection to Turkey Lake Road while improving safety and easing congestion at Central Florida’s busiest interchange.

The left turn from westbound Sand Lake Road to southbound Turkey Lake Road has been replaced by a new loop ramp, eliminating a turn movement that contributed to backups at the interchange. Drivers on westbound Sand Lake Road can now use the loop ramp to head north or south on Turkey Lake Road. The new ramp system also allows motorists on westbound I-4 to exit directly to either Turkey Lake Road or Sand Lake Road at Exit 74A.

Traveling from Westbound Sand Lake Road to Turkey Lake Road

• Motorists wishing to access Turkey Lake Road south of Sand Lake Road should keep right and enter the new loop ramp just before the Turkey Lake Road intersection.
• The loop ramp will carry motorists over Sand Lake Road and end at Sand Lake Sound Road, where they can travel north or south on Turkey Lake Road.
• Motorists can no longer turn left from westbound Sand Lake Road to southbound Turkey Lake Road.

Traveling from Westbound I-4 (Exit 74A)

• The westbound I-4 exit ramp at Exit 74A now splits into two ramps — one on the right to Sand Lake Road and one on the left to Turkey Lake Road.
• Motorists exiting to Sand Lake Road can still continue to Turkey Lake Road by turning right onto westbound Sand Lake Road and using the loop ramp.

This project marks a major milestone in the ongoing transformation of I-4 at Sand Lake Road, an interchange that serves approximately 115,000 vehicles daily. In March 2024, FDOT converted the interchange to a diverging diamond interchange (DDI), an innovative design that increased capacity and improved safety and traffic flow by briefly shifting Sand Lake Road traffic to the opposite side of the road and eliminated left turns across oncoming traffic to access I-4. Construction on the broader project began in 2023 and is expected to continue through 2027.

As work progresses, these improvements will continue to enhance safety and provide much-needed congestion relief, helping drivers spend less time in traffic and more time at the surrounding attractions, hotels, restaurants, businesses, and neighborhoods that make this area one of Central Florida’s most popular gateways.

FDOT advises motorists to use extra caution, watch for new signage and pavement markings, and plan ahead while drivers adjust to the new traffic pattern.

For more information about the improvements on I-4 at Sand Lake Road, visit the project website at I4Beyond.com/SandLake.

Media inquiries should be directed to the FDOT Public Information Office at FDOT D5COMM@dot.state.fl.us or by phone at (386) 943-5593.

The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) proudly joins fellow transportation agencies, law enforcement partners, construction crews, and community partners across the state and country in recognizing Work Zone Awareness Week, April 20-24, 2026. This campaign unites transportation agencies, law enforcement, construction crews, and community partners to raise awareness about the real dangers road workers face every day while performing essential work in our communities.

This annual initiative highlights the critical role every driver plays in protecting these workers and fellow motorists when traveling through work zones. National Work Zone Awareness Week is a powerful reminder that safety in construction areas is a shared responsibility.

A work zone involves workers, vehicles, trucks, and equipment, often requiring lane closures, detours, and active operations, and may last from a few hours to several years. Work zone fatalities account for approximately 2–3 percent of total traffic fatalities and about 2 percent of serious injuries in Florida. Ensuring the safe and efficient flow of traffic
through work zones remains an ongoing priority for Florida’s transportation and traffic safety partners.

Florida experienced more than 16,012 work zone crashes, including 74 fatalities and 294 serious injuries, according to the 2023 Florida Traffic Crash Facts Annual Report.

To help reduce crashes in work zones, FDOT prioritizes traffic law enforcement, public awareness and education, and partnering with work zone stakeholders through grant funding opportunities.

Enforcement

The most common violations in work zone areas are speeding and distracting driving. These violations are taken very seriously, and the goal is to save lives. Law enforcement agencies are expected to actively enforce traffic laws within work zones to help reduce crashes.

Education

Education plays an important role in improving safety within work zones by increasing public awareness and encouraging responsible driving behavior.

Programs such as the SWIFTT Challenge (Safety Work Zone Innovations for Today and Tomorrow) engage industry professionals, students, and government agencies in promoting and exploring the latest innovative safety solutions for work zones today and in the future. In addition, campaigns like NWZAW (National Work Zone Awareness Week) serve as a nationwide effort to highlight the importance of work zone safety through public outreach, media engagement, and community events.

These efforts highlight the importance of staying alert, following posted speed limits, and respecting traffic control signs to protect both workers and fellow motorists.

Grant Funding

FDOT provides grant funding opportunity to local governments and nonprofits working to eliminate serious injuries and fatalities in our work zones. For grant funding, concept papers must be submitted in the year prior to project implementation. Supporting data must demonstrate that the roadway project will be ongoing during the grant cycle for funds to be awarded.

Programs receiving grant funding in this priority area focus on three major program-related categories:

• Problem Identification: Data collection and analysis to identify and develop countermeasures and awareness initiatives that lead to significant change in driver behavior.
• Communication Programs: Public awareness and education efforts to ensure motorist compliance with revised speed limits and enforcement operations.
• Enforcement Countermeasures: Targeted enforcement strategies that address speeding drivers, high-risk locations, and conditions most associated with speeding-related crashes.

Items eligible for funding may include overtime enforcement and public awareness materials.

All program areas funded through grants are required to have an evaluation method to assess their effectiveness in reducing fatalities and injuries. For more information, see our Grants page.

ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. – The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) has completed major construction on a project that doubles the capacity of the westbound Interstate 4 (I-4) exit ramp to eastbound State Road (S.R.) 528 (Beachline Expressway) at Exit 72. Designed to ease congestion at the junction of two major Central Florida highways, the improvements at this ramp serve residents, visitors, commuters, and freight carriers traveling through the region.

Construction began in January 2024 and included widening the ramp from one lane to two. The project also reconfigured the ramp’s entrance and exit to improve traffic flow and reduce backups on I-4. The second lane of the newly widened ramp opened to drivers on January 18, and paving and striping operations in late March marked the final milestones in the project. This work, along with upgraded lighting, extends the lifespan of the roadway and provides better visibility for motorists.

These improvements help reduce backups and improve traffic flow at an interchange that carries approximately 92,000 vehicles daily, benefiting I-4 drivers using S.R. 528 to reach the Orange County Convention Center, Orlando International Airport, the Space Coast, and Florida’s east coast beaches.

For more information about this project, visit
I4Beyond.com/SR528.

Click the link provided to view a video about the project:
https://youtu.be/S78rvAXQeKA?si=yJP3q2qjipq4nBYW.

~ Our partners are encouraging drivers to Put It Down and Focus on the Road ~

 

TALLAHASSEE Fla. ~ April kickoffs Distracted Driving Awareness Month, and the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, its division, Florida Highway Patrol, and our partners are encouraging drivers to Put It Down and Focus on the Road.

A crash occurs every 44 seconds in Florida, and one in seven crashes involves distracted drivers. Distracted driving is anything that takes your hands off the wheel, your eyes off the road or mind off driving—and that includes the passengers in your vehicle being a distraction. Last year, more than 52,900 crashes occurred because of distracted driving in Florida, resulting in over 2,100 serious bodily injuries and over 300 fatalities, the most since 2021.

 

Distracted driving kills. That is why in 2019, Florida passed legislation, the Wireless Communications While Driving law, that changed the enforcement of the ban on texting while driving from a secondary offense to a primary offense. This allows law enforcement to stop a vehicle solely for using a wireless communications device while driving, reinforcing Florida’s commitment to promoting public safety and preventing this dangerous behavior.

 

 

However, prevention should begin young through education, awareness, and demonstration. Studies found that drivers aged in their 20s were the most likely to be distracted at the time of a crash, accounting for more than 25% of all distracted driving crashes. With the widespread use of mobile devices, lack of driving experience, passenger distraction, and the role of parents’ influence in safe driving behaviors, early intervention is essential to building lifelong habits behind the wheel.

Many smartphones have ‘Do Not Disturb’ or ‘Focus’ settings that silence all notifications on your phone. If your phone and car both have Bluetooth capabilities, there should be a Driving Focus feature that will not allow notifications while you are driving.

Texting remains one of the most prevalent and dangerous distractions because it takes a driver’s eyes off the road, their hands off the wheel, and their thinking about something other than driving. All of which are the same abilities needed to drive safely. If you need to text, look up directions or take an important call, pull over to a safe location and put your car in park. Or simply wait until you reach your destination. If you have a passenger, have them respond to calls or messages.

 

Taking a moment to enable these settings before you start your trip can significantly reduce distractions and help you stay fully focused on the road. Distractions while driving also include, putting on makeup, tending to a child or passenger in the back seat, eating and drinking, adjusting the radio, or checking your car’s navigation system, and many more.

FLHSMV and FHP are dedicated to educating Florida motorists on the importance of avoiding distracted driving and informing motorists of current laws against distracted driving. With every traffic stop, the Florida Highway Patrol and law enforcement officers statewide take the time to provide life saving education to motorists, reminding them of the dangers of driving distracted and turning each interaction into a teachable moment. These conversations are an essential part of preventing future tragedies. Our goal is always to correct dangerous behavior before it results in a crash, an injury, or a loss of life. We never want a driver to learn the hard way, and we remain committed to doing everything we can to keep Florida’s roads safe for everyone.