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FLORIDA - A new Florida law aims to curb reckless driving by introducing jail time for drivers caught speeding at dangerously high levels.
Signed by Governor Ron DeSantis, the “Dangerous Excessive Speeding Act” will go into effect on July 1st.
The legislation targets motorists who either surpass the speed limit by 50 miles per hour or drive 100 mph or more in a manner that allegedly puts others at risk or disrupts traffic.
A first conviction can result in up to 30 days in jail and a $500 fine.
Repeat offenders face harsher consequences, up to 90 days in jail and a $1,000 fine.
Additionally, if multiple violations occur within five years, the driver’s license can be suspended for up to a year.
The law comes as communities across Florida raise concerns over aggressive speeding.
Videos posted to YouTube appear to show bikers racing through local roads at speeds above 150 mph.
In another case, an off-duty Osceola County deputy was suspended after allegedly driving erratically at high speed.
The deputy who pulled him over reported the vehicle was swerving, ignoring traffic signs, and appeared to be traveling around 100 mph.
However, no radar reading was taken, so no citation was issued.
Officials hope the stricter penalties will discourage dangerous driving before it results in injury or death.