This bill amends various sections of Florida Statutes to introduce and regulate the use of railroad traffic infraction detectors and speed detection systems. It defines "railroad traffic infraction detector" as a system that captures images or video of vehicles violating traffic laws at railroad crossings. Counties and municipalities are authorized to install these detectors at at-grade railroad crossings with the railroad owner's permission, contingent upon enacting an ordinance that includes a public hearing. The Department of Transportation is also empowered to enforce speed limits in work zones using speed detection systems, with a requirement to provide public notification and signage regarding their use.

Additionally, the bill establishes procedures for issuing traffic citations based on violations detected by these systems, including requirements for notifying vehicle owners and allowing them to contest citations. It specifies that vehicle owners are generally responsible for violations unless they provide an affidavit identifying another person in control of the vehicle at the time of the infraction. The bill modifies the distribution of penalties collected from traffic violations, allocating funds to various state and local entities, and emphasizes the importance of a School Crossing Guard Recruitment and Retention Program funded by penalties from school zone speed detection systems. Overall, the legislation aims to enhance traffic safety at railroad crossings and in work zones while ensuring due process for vehicle owners.

Statutes affected:
S 812 Filed: 316.0776, 316.1894, 316.1906, 316.306, 316.640, 655.960