To reduce distracted driving and increase safety, the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) and Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) recently partnered with Seminole County officials to remind motorists of the Wireless Communications While Driving Law now in effect. The new Florida state law makes texting while driving a primary offense and prohibits drivers from holding cellphones in active work and school zones.

FDOT District Five Communications staff were joined by Seminole County Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Walt Griffin, Seminole County Sheriff’s Office Chief Dan Purcell, and FHP Lt. Kim Montes on February 12 to educate drivers along E.E. Williamson Road in Seminole County.

On this stretch of road, drivers pass through a school zone for Woodlands Elementary School and an adjoining construction zone for the reconstruction of the E.E. Williamson Road bridge over Interstate 4 (I-4). Drivers were reminded that when traveling through work and school zones they must put down phones or other handheld wireless devices.

Texting and driving can not only hurt you and your passengers, but it also puts everyone on the road in danger. Drivers who violate the hands-free portion of the law now receive a minimum $60 fine with additional county and court fees, plus points on their licenses. As an alternative, hands-free devices may be used.

For additional information about the Wireless Communications While Driving Law, visit flhsmv.gov/focusondriving.

For more information about I-4 Beyond the Ultimate projects in Seminole County, including the reconstruction of the E.E. Williamson Road bridge over I-4, visit I4Beyond.com/Seminole.