Traveling to Florida for the first time? Maybe you are planning a move to the Sunshine State or have just relocated?
There is a lot to look forward to, including sun-kissed beaches, natural attractions, shopping havens, theme parks, and happening party spots. Yes, there is much to take in on a trip to the Sunshine State, or if you have just moved there, but one of the things that you absolutely need to be aware of is the Florida speed limit and the various speeds you can travel on different roads in Florida.
Knowledge of the different speed limits in Florida is especially important if you plan to do some driving, whether in the cities, on the highways, or in any of the rural communities. That is because speeding in Florida, like most places in the U.S., can attract hefty penalties and fines. You can be slapped with a speeding ticket, for example, as well as have your license suspended due to an accumulation of points.
Knowing the correct Florida speed limit is not only about avoiding punishment. It is also about driving safely on the roads to prevent accidents. Driving within the speed limit helps reduce the possibility of crashes and promotes efficient use of the road.
In Florida, legislation is put in place to govern the safe use of the roads. Speed limits on highways, for example, are established by the Florida Department of Transportation. The different limits indicate the fastest speeds you are legally allowed to drive when the conditions are good – that is when driving in fair weather and with good visibility.
Of course, a specific Florida speed limit does not necessarily mean you have to drive at that exact pace all the time. You still need to assess the road conditions and surrounding environment to determine the best speed at which to drive (that is also within the stipulated limit).
Different speed limits are implemented based on several factors, including population density and type of road. For each community and highway, the speed limits are often posted on prominent signs along the roadway.
What are the different speed limits in Florida?
Speed limits in Florida range from a low of 20 mph to a maximum of 70 mph, depending on the type of area and zone you are in. Here is a breakdown:
- School zones are 20 mph.
- Business, residential, and certain municipal speed zones have a limit of 30 mph.
- Rural interstate and limited-access highways are 70 mph.
- Some multi-lane highways (such as a divided four-lane highway outside an urban area) have speed limits of 65 mph.
- Other roads and highways (including those with no indicated speed limits) are generally 55 mph.
In addition, a 60 mph speed limit in Florida is enforced on some state highways and roadways where the physical environment demands a slower speed.
With these different speed limits implemented in Florida, it is important to pay attention to road signs. The last thing you want is to be slapped with a huge fine as a result of exceeding the speed limit in Florida.
Just in case you are wondering, however, there are different fines for speeding violations. If you are caught traveling 15 mph or more above the speeding limit, you will most likely get a ticket with a fine of up to $376.
If you are traveling 10 to 14 mph over the speed limit in Florida, there is also a good chance that you will receive a ticket and be fined up to $226.
For speeding violations under 10 mph, it is possible you may only receive a warning. However, if you are traveling just 5 mph over the limit, or less, in a school or construction zone, you may be fined as much as $143.
Moreover, being fined for exceeding Florida speed limits is just one way you may be punished. You can have up to four points on your license, in addition to an increase in your insurance premium.
When visiting or relocating your family to Florida, it is normal to have your mind focused on fun things to do. Knowledge of the speed limits in Florida – and adhering to them – will ensure your time is well spent and minimize the chance of you being fined.
