With the start of summer upon us, it’s important to make sure everyone can have fun and get to their destinations safely. Florida is one of the busiest states in the country during the summer months, according to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV).

The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) and FLHSMV ask everyone on Florida’s roads to help keep each other safe by driving the speed limit. Motorists are responsible for observing the speed limits on each stretch of road they travel. The maximum speed limit in Florida is 70 miles per hour on highways. Not only is it illegal to speed, but speeding increases the frequency and severity of crashes.

Tire safety is important when getting ready to hit the road in your vehicle. If your tires are worn, damaged, or improperly inflated, it can cause crashes. Worn tread makes tires more prone to hydroplaning during Florida’s summer rainstorms. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), drivers accumulate more than 2,900 billion miles on tires in the United States each year. With that in mind, drivers should regularly inspect and maintain their tires.

It is a Florida law that all drivers, front seat passengers, and passengers under the age of 18 fasten their safety belts. Wearing your seatbelt reduces the risk of being injured or killed in a crash by almost 50 percent.

Summer means fun in the sun and could also mean enjoying cold beverages. Be smart when drinking. Plan ahead and designate a driver or call a ride service. Under Florida law, driving under the influence (DUI) is defined as impairment by alcohol or any substance or having a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .08 or above. If you suspect a driver is impaired, contact law enforcement or dial *FHP (*347).

To learn more about safe summer travel, including preventing vehicular heatstroke, driving in inclement weather, and traveling with pets, visit the FLHSMV website. Let’s get everyone where they are going safely.