© 2024 Central Florida Public Media. All Rights Reserved.
90.7 FM Orlando • 89.5 FM Ocala
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations

Data: Florida’s texting-while-driving law rarely enforced

Photo: Kelli McClintock
Photo: Kelli McClintock

GAINESVILLE, Fla. (AP) — Gov. Ron DeSantis signed a new law in 2019 making texting while driving a primary traffic offense in Florida, with a $30 fine for a first offense that routinely climbs to over $100.

But the new law against texting is rarely enforced, according to official state figures.

Florida also has failed its requirements under the law to track comprehensively how many drivers are ticketed statewide – and whether police are targeting minorities.

Those in charge of writing tickets also complained that the young law has too many loopholes.

Danielle Prieur covers education in Central Florida.