Florida Highway Patrol cracking down on aggressive drivers

Sun-Sentinel

October 13, 2016

The Florida Highway Patrol is ticketing aggressive drivers statewide in an effort to reduce crashes, especially those involving trucks and tractor trailers. During the safety campaign, which runs through Oct. 20, troopers will be looking for car and truck drivers who follow too closely, speed and make unsafe lane changes.

About 88% of fatal crashes involving large trucks are caused by both car and truck driver error. Only 12% are the result of road conditions, poor weather or mechanical problems, the highway patrol said.

Besides traffic stops, the campaign uses billboards and public service announcements to increase awareness and promote safe driving habits.

Among the patrol’s safety recommendations:

• Don’t cut off trucks because it takes longer for the heavier vehicles to stop.

• Stay out of the “No Zone” or truck driver’s blind spots and pass on the left where there is more visibility.

• Don’t tailgate trucks because your view of the road is restricted and there is less reaction time if the truck slows down or makes a sudden stop.

• Change lanes only when both of the truck’s headlights can be seen in your rearview mirror.

• Dial *FHP [*347] to report aggressive or dangerous driving.

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