2019

~ FHP partners to prevent crashes that result in fatalities, injuries and property damage ~

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Beginning today through March 7, 2019, the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) joins its southeastern law enforcement partners to participate in the Operation Safe DRIVE (Distracted Reckless Impaired Visibility Enforcement) safety campaign. The Safe DRIVE campaign is a high visibility, education and enforcement initiative designed to deter behaviors that contribute to commercial and non-commercial motor vehicle crashes.

“FHP is committed to reducing the number of commercial vehicle-related crashes on Florida roadways and helping ensure motorists Arrive Alive,” said Colonel Gene Spaulding, Director of the Florida Highway Patrol. “Motorists can reduce crashes if they share the roads safely, avoid aggressive driving behaviors and exercise additional caution when driving near larger vehicles.”

Operation Safe DRIVE’s enforcement efforts will be focused on driver behaviors that include: aggressive driving, unlawful speed, following too close, improper passing/lane change, failing to move-over, failing to wear safety belt, distracted driving, driving under the influence, hours of service violations, commercial driver license violations, medical certification and commercial motor vehicle credentialing.

Motorists should protect themselves and their passengers by learning how to share the road safely. FHP offers these tips for driving around large trucks:

• Stay out of the No Zone: Be aware that large trucks have large blind spots (also known as “No Zones”).
• Pass trucks with caution: Pass on the left side for maximum visibility and maintain a constant speed.
• Do not cut trucks off: Be sure to leave plenty of room when you pull in front of a truck. Large trucks simply can’t stop as quickly as smaller vehicles.
• Practice patience around larger vehicles that are not traveling at the same speed as your vehicle.

The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles provides highway safety and security through excellence in service, education and enforcement. The Department is leading the way to a safer Florida through the efficient and professional execution of its core mission: the issuance of driver licenses, vehicle tags and titles and operation of the Florida Highway Patrol. To learn more about FLHSMV and the services offered, visit www.flhsmv.gov, follow us on Twitter @FLHSMV or find us on Facebook. For safe driving tips and techniques, download the official Florida Driver License Handbook.