Mass Arrests Under New Excessive Speed Law
In Florida, 70 individuals have been arrested since the beginning of July under a new law that mandates arrest for drivers exceeding speeds of 100 mph or driving 50 mph over the posted speed limit. Many of them were surprised and did not understand the seriousness of the situation, which is clearly visible in the arrest videos.
Drivers’ Reaction to the New Rules
One of those arrested complained that he was not given a chance, even though he was driving at 116 mph. Another driver, who was stopped on Interstate 4 in a Honda Civic, claimed he thought the patrol officer was trying to race him. Another case involved a Volkswagen Golf, which, according to police, was traveling at a speed of 135 mph.
The Most Extreme Cases
In addition to these cases, a Dodge Challenger driver was recorded traveling at a speed of 155 mph. The video shows smoke coming from under the car’s hood. Most of those arrested quickly posted the $500 bail to be released from custody, but they also had to pay fines and the costs for towing and storing their vehicles.
Increased Law Enforcement Activity
The number of arrests is likely to increase in August, as some police departments did not have the appropriate code in their system to register such violations until mid-July. Drivers in the state are expected to quickly learn about the new rules through word of mouth, making high-speed driving significantly riskier.
Video and information provided by the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP).
The excessive speed law is already showing results, and if the trend of arrests continues, it could significantly impact the driving culture in Florida. Drivers still do not seem to fully grasp the extent of the responsibility, but gradually the new rules are becoming part of their daily reality. This could lead to a reduction in dangerous situations on the roads, especially considering that many cases involved not only high speed but also the technical condition of the vehicles.