A record numbers of Americans travel during the holidays. Each holiday, AAA Auto Club South projects that millions of Americans travel more than 50 miles from home. Airports are packed and getting through security can be exasperating. Even more Americans crowd the highways. Therefore, travelers should be reminded to drive carefully and courteously.
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If you are traveling in Florida, whether on vacation
or a long weekend, pave the way to a smooth trip with these timely tips
and bits of information...
Florida Driving Information & Tips
- New Exit Numbers - Just in case you have a really old map, in January 2002, the Florida Department of Transportation began the task of changing the exit numbers of Interstate highways from consecutive numbers to mile-post numbers. For two years the exit signs displayed both numbers, but now this change may prove confusing to drivers using old maps or billboard directions that have yet to be changed.
- Move Over - Drivers are required now by law to "move over" or "slow down" when approaching an authorized emergency vehicle stopped on a Florida highway. On highways with two lanes in the same direction, vehicles must vacate the lane closest to the emergency vehicle. On highways with just one lane in each direction, drivers must slow down to 20 miles under the posted speed limit.
- Click-it or Ticket - Florida law is clear that all front seat passengers MUST buckle their seat belts, even if the automobile is equipped with air bags. All children under the age of 16 MUST use a seat belt while riding anywhere in the vehicle and children under the age of five must be restrained in an approved child-restraint system. Also, you may now be ticketed for not complying with any of these restraint laws.
- Red-Light Cameras - Beware that you could be caught on camera at major intersections in Florida's cities if you run a red light. Even some legal right-on-red turns could cost you a ticket if you don't understand how the red-light camera systems work.
- Florida Speed Traps - Beware of these real "traps" that will cost you when you're least expecting it.
Safety Tips
- Holiday Safety - General safety tips on drinking, violence, hotels, and the beach. Sun Safety - The weekend forecast for the UV Index is usually near 10, which is extremely high. Prevention is the key to avoiding scorching sunburns and becoming a "sun-baked tourist," and there's more to it than just applying sunscreen.
- Heat Stress - Central Florida temperatures are forecasted to be in the high 80s and low 90s during the Memorial Day weekend. In Florida, more people die from excessive heat than from lightning. Know heat stress symptoms and treatment before you travel and use these tips for how to beat the Florida heat.
- Lightning Safety - You should get off the beach when a thunderstorm threatens.
Florida Travel Planning
- Florida Vacation Travel Guide:
- Use this handy guide to plan your next Florida vacation. Everything you need is right here in the Florida Travel Planner and your Florida guide is as close as your email.
- Disney World Vacation Guide:
- Planning a trip to Disney World can be a bit overwhelming with all the ticket choices, deciding where to stay and the best places to eat; but, we'll help you make informed choices so you can get the most from your vacation dollar.
- Florida Beach Guide:
- Florida has some of the best beaches in the world. No matter where you are in Florida, there is a beach just a short drive away – from the Panhandle to the Keys and every place in between. Find everything "beachy" here – favorite beach destinations, photos, cams, what to pack, sun safety, and even how to build a sand castle!
- Florida Disabled Traveler Guide:
- Whatever your special need – wheelchair access, special transportation, TDD (Telecommunication Devices for the Deaf), signers, interpreters, or special medical equipment – you'll find it here.
- Canine Travel Tips:
- Florida's sun can be no fun for Fido. Get the inside scoop on traveling with your canine companion – including poochie packing tips.
