Florida Drivers Face Higher Traffic Fines

The Florida legislature is scrambling to make up for the state's budget deficit. It appears that one of the ways the state plans to do so is to raise the cost of most traffic citations. According to www.tbo.com, Governor Charlie Christ signed into law a bill that has $2.5 billion in spending cuts. Part of the bill includes statewide mandatory minimum increases to traffic fines for all types of automobile related conduct. The bill became law Sunday January 31, 2009

Under the new law, driving 10 to 14 mph above the speed limit has gone up to a minimum of $191; driving 15 mph to 19 mph over the limit has gone up to a minimum of $241; driving 20 mph up to 29 mph over the limit has gone up to a minimum of $266; and speeding in a school zone has gone up to $366. Many other traffic related infractions have gone up $10. The law also allows counties to add additional discretionary fees to the traffic fines.

Given the troubles in the economy, the fines will certainly be a hardship to many financially strapped families. However, maybe some good will come from it. Basic economic principles suggest that increasing fines has a deterrent effect on the fined conduct. Let's hope car accidents decrease as people work harder to obey the law to avoid the fines.

Scott distasio
Tampa auto accident attorney

DISTASIO LAW FIRM
HELPING INJURED PEOPLE
888-595-0022