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| Florida Launches Statewide Push to Stop Impaired Driving as Fatal Crash Numbers Remain High / FHP |
By Staff Reporter
iSkyNews.com (ISN) – Published March 3rd, 2026
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FLHSMV and Florida Highway Patrol Launch “Never Drive Impaired” Safety Campaign Across Florida
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Florida officials are launching a statewide safety campaign this March aimed at reminding drivers that impaired driving remains one of the most dangerous — and preventable — threats on Florida’s roadways.
The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) and the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP)announced the initiative as part of the “Never Drive Impaired” campaign, urging drivers to think ahead and make responsible decisions before getting behind the wheel.
According to state officials, one in three fatal crashes in Florida involves an impaired driver, accounting for more than 30 percent of all traffic deaths statewide. Authorities say those tragedies often stem from decisions that could have been avoided.
“Impaired driving is a choice that puts lives at risk, and the consequences are far too real for far too many Florida families,” said FLHSMV Executive Director Dave Kerner. “Through the Never Drive Impaired campaign, we are reminding drivers that safety begins long before they start the car. Plan ahead, make responsible decisions, and remember that you only have one life—protect it.”
Throughout March, troopers and law enforcement agencies across Florida will continue monitoring roadways for impaired drivers while also encouraging the public to take personal responsibility for preventing these crashes.
Alcohol Remains the Leading Cause of Impaired Crashes
State data shows alcohol continues to be the primary factor in impaired driving crashes, injuries, and deaths in Florida.
Over the past five years, alcohol has been responsible for:
- 84.4 percent of impaired-driving crashes
- 35.7 percent of impaired-driving fatalities
- 80.7 percent of impaired-driving injuries
Officials also note that DUI and open-container violations historically increase during the month of March.
Under Florida law, penalties for driving under the influence can include substantial fines, driver’s license revocation, and even jail time. A DUI conviction can remain on a person’s driving record for up to 75 years.
Authorities emphasize that impairment begins with the first drink, as alcohol quickly affects judgment and reaction time.
Drug-Impaired Driving Also a Growing Concern
In addition to alcohol, drug-impaired driving continues to be a major concern for traffic safety officials.
Between 2018 and 2023, Florida recorded:
- More than 4,000 drug-confirmed crashes
- Nearly 2,300 drug-confirmed fatalities
Marijuana remains the most frequently detected drug in impaired driving cases, particularly among drivers ages 10 to 24, while individuals ages 25 to 29 account for the highest number of drug-related crashes.
Officials warn that combining drugs with alcohol or certain medications can significantly increase impairment and crash risk.
Drowsy Driving Can Be Just as Dangerous
Fatigue is another form of impairment that can dramatically impact a driver’s ability to safely operate a vehicle.
Drowsy driving slows reaction time, affects judgment, and can cause drivers to experience microsleep episodes, where they briefly fall asleep without realizing it.
High-risk groups include:
- Young drivers
- Shift workers
- Commercial drivers
- Individuals with untreated sleep disorders
Motorists are encouraged to take breaks every two hours or 100 miles, rest before driving, and use Florida’s rest areas and service plazas when needed.
Specialized Officers Trained to Detect Impairment
Florida currently has 303 certified Drug Recognition Experts (DREs) statewide, including 61 within the Florida Highway Patrol. These officers receive specialized training to recognize impairment caused by drugs, alcohol, or other substances.
Their training includes identifying physiological signs, conducting standardized field sobriety tests, and evaluating multiple categories of drugs that may impair a driver.
FHP Colonel Gary Howze said troopers regularly encounter situations that could have been avoided with one responsible decision.
“Every day, our troopers encounter situations that could have been prevented with one responsible decision to not get behind the wheel while impaired,” Howze said. “Every safe choice behind the wheel protects a family, a community, and a future that cannot be replaced.”
Recognizing the Signs of Impairment
Officials say impairment can affect drivers long before obvious signs appear. Warning signs include:
- Slowed reaction time
- Decreased concentration
- Reduced hand-eye coordination
- Difficulty judging distance and time
- Memory and attention problems
Authorities stress that impaired driving is entirely preventable and encourage motorists to plan ahead, designate a sober driver, or use rideshare services when necessary.
State officials say the message of the campaign is simple:
You only have one life — protect it.
More information and safety resources related to the Never Drive Impaired campaign can be found at FLHSMV.gov/impaired.
For a list of Florida Rest Areas CLICK HERE.
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