This bill amends several sections of Florida Statutes to impose stricter penalties for traffic infractions that result in crashes with other vehicles. Specifically, it requires that individuals found guilty of certain infractions at a mandatory hearing face civil penalties and driver license suspensions. For example, if a person is found to have committed an infraction resulting in a crash, they may face a civil penalty of $1,000 and a six-month license suspension. If the infraction involves a vulnerable road user, the penalties increase significantly, including a minimum civil penalty of $5,000 and a one-year license suspension. The bill also introduces new mandatory hearing requirements for specific infractions that result in crashes.

Additionally, the bill mandates that owners and operators of motor vehicles establish and maintain financial responsibility for liability in the event of accidents. This includes maintaining higher insurance limits for a specified minimum period, depending on the nature of the infraction. The bill specifies that those found guilty of driving under the influence or certain traffic infractions must carry insurance coverage of at least $100,000 for bodily injury or death, and $50,000 for property damage. The effective date for these changes is set for October 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
S 1054 Filed: 318.14, 318.19, 324.023
S 1054 c1: 318.14, 318.19, 324.023