North Florida Injury Lawyer Blog

"Intersection" is defined, by Florida Statutes, as the lateral boundary lines of the roadways of two highways which join one another at, or approximately at, right angles; or the are within which vehicles traveling upon different highway joining at any other angle may come into conflict. See Florida Statute section 316.003(17)(a). Intersections are common places for Florida drivers to be involved in automobile crashes. Therefore Florida drivers should take extra precaution and care when entering or approaching intersections.

Title XXIII - Motor Vehicles, Chapter 316 - State Uniform Traffic Control, Section 316.121 - Vehicles Approaching or Entering Intersections, establishes certain duties, rules and regulations for Florida drivers who are approaching or entering an intersection:
1. Approaching an intersection. The driver of a vehicle approaching an intersection must yield the right-of-way to a vehicle was has entered the intersection from a different highway.
2. Two vehicles approaching at same time. When two vehicles enter an intersection from different highways at the same time the DRIVER OF THE VEHICLE ON THE LEFT SHALL YIELD THE RIGHT-OF-WAY to the vehicle on the right.
3. State-maintained roads or highways. The driver of a vehicle about to enter to cross a state-maintained road or highway from a paved or unpaved road (e.g., driveway) and not subject to control by an official traffic control device shall yield the right-of-way to ALL vehicles approaching on the state-maintained road or highway the driver of the other vehicle is attempting to enter or cross.
4. County-maintained or city-maintained roads or highways. The driver of a vehicle about to enter or cross a paved county-maintained or city-maintained road or highway from an unpaved road or highway (e.g., driveway) and not subject to control by an official traffic control device shall yield the right-of-way to ALL vehicles approaching on said paved road or highway.

Continue reading " Florida Traffic Laws - What Is the Duty of a Driver Approaching or Entering Intersections? " »

A 34-year-old woman from Texas was killed in a accident while driving on State Road 8 at the intersection with Interstate 10. Maria Chancelor, of Nederland, Texas, was pronounced dead at the scene. Chancelor's passenger, 35-year-old Michael Currier, of Fayetteville, Tennessee, sustained critical personal injuries as a result of the automobile accident. Currier was transported to Shands Medical Center in Jacksonville in critical condition. According to Florida Highway Patrol state troopers neither Chancelor nor Currier was wearing a seat belt. Investigators stated Chancelor's vehicle spun off the entrance ramp to I-10, onto the grass shoulder and finally into oncoming traffic where her vehicle struck an oncoming tractor trailer truck. The accident occurred around 12:30 a.m. in Baker County, Florida. The driver of the truck, who was reportedly wearing his seat belt, was not personally injured. For more details read Texas woman killed in Florida Crash in Baker County, Florida.

A man who was recently killed in a hit-and-run accident in Seminole County, Florida, has been identified as 36-year-old Charles Long. Long's body was lying in a grassy shoulder along Monroe Road for nearly two hours before he was found. He rode his bicycle to work everyday, a 14-mile trip from DeBary to Lake Mary and back. Long was employed as a dishwasher at a pizza restaurant. According to the Florida Highway Patrol, Long was traveling north in the outside, southbound lane of Monroe Road in Sanford, Florida, near U.S. Highway 17-92 when he was struck by a pickup truck that was traveling southbound in the same lane. The truck struck the front of Long's bicycle, sending him flying into the grassy shoulder where he was later found dead. The pickup truck that struck Long was turned into the Seminole County Sheriff's Office. For more details please read Man found dead in grassy shoulder of Monroe Road in Seminole, Florida, hit-and-run collision.

Florida law establishes a duty upon all drivers that are involved in a crash that results in injury to any person to stop their vehicle immediately at the scene of the crash, or as close thereto as possible. See Title XXIII - Motor Vehicles, Chapter 316 - State Uniform Traffic Control, Section 316.027 - Crash Involving Death or Personal Injuries.

Also, the driver of the vehicle has a duty to remain at the crash site until he or she has fulfilled the requirements set out in section 316.062, Florida Statutes. Any driver who willfully violates the provisions of sec. 316.027 commits a third-degree felony.

If you would like to read more Florida Traffic Laws visit the Wood, Atter & Wolf, P.A. website: North Florida Injury Lawyer Blog.

Title XXIII - Motor Vehicles, Chapter 316 - State Uniform Traffic Control, Section 316.091 - Limited Access Facilities; Interstate Highways; Use Restricted, establishes limitations, restrictions and other prohibitions to the access and use of certain facilities and interstate highways.

1. No person shall drive a vehicle onto or from any limited access roadway. EXCEPTION: Unless such entrances and exists are established by public authority.
2. No person shall operate upon a limited access facility any bicycle, motor-driven cycle, animal-drawn vehicle, or any other vehicle which by its design or condition is incompatible with the safe and expedient movement of traffic.
3. No person shall ride any animal upon any portion of a limited access facility.
4. No person shall operate a bicycle on the roadway or along the should of an interstate highway.

Bicycles:
In the state of Florida, bicycles are not allowed on limited-access roadways or on interstate highways. However, toll bridges are not always on limited-access facilities.

A "Freeway" is a limited-access highway with several significant characteristics:
1. Vehicles traveling in opposite directions are separated by a continuous unpaved median or fixed barrier;
2. There are at least two lanes of travel in each direction;
3. At-grade crossing conflicts are not allowed;
4. Vehicles enter and exit a freeway with merge, diverge and weave movements.

A "Limited Access Facility" is defined, by Florida Statute, as a street or highway especially designed for through traffic and over, from, or to which owners or occupants of abutting land or other persons have no right or easement, or only a limited right or easement, of access. Such highways or streets may be parkways from which trucks, buses, and other commercial vehicles are excluded; or they may be freeways open to use by all customary forms of street and highways traffic. See Florida Statute section 316.003(19).

Continue reading " Florida Traffic Laws - What Are the Restrictions on Using Limited Access Roadways? " »

Making a turn may seem like a simple, mundane driving task. However, many traffic crashes occur because of drivers who make incorrect, illegal, and / or unsafe turns. Pursuant to Title XXIII - Motor Vehicles, Chapter 316 - State Uniform Traffic Control, Section 316.122 - Vehicle Turning Left, drivers turning or intending to turn left must yield the right-of-way to any vehicle approaching from the opposite direction, or vehicles lawfully passing on the left of the turning vehicle.

Below are some tips Florida Drivers should follow when making or attempting to make turns, especially left-hand turns:

1. Use your turn signal and NEVER make "last minute" turns.
2. Use your turn signal. Specifically, give your turn signal for at least the last 100 feet before making your turn.
3. Slow down to an appropriate and safe turning speed.
4. ALWAYS yield to bicyclists and pedestrians.
5. Make your turn and stay in the proper lane. Yield the right-of-way to vehicles, including bicycles, coming from the opposite direction.
6. Finish your turn in the proper lane. A LEFT TURN may be completed in any lane lawfully available, or safe, for the desired direction of travel.

If you have been involved in and/or are the victim or an accident, please contact Wood, Atter & Wolf, P.A. regarding your rights. You can also read more Florida Traffic Laws on the Wood, Atter & Wolf, P.A. website.

Pursuant to >Title XXIII - Motor Vehicles, Chapter 316 - State Uniform Traffic Control, Section 316.123 - Vehicle Entering Stop of Yield at Intersection, a Florida driving approaching posted stop or yield must, in obedience with such sign, slow down to a reasonable speed for the existing conditions and, if required for safety to stop their vehicle before entering the crosswalk or intersection.

In Florida car accident cases, as a general rule, any car that is approaching an intersection or crosswalk shall yield the right-of-way to any vehicle or pedestrian that is already in or at the intersection.

- If approaching a stop intersection, Drivers must stop at a clearly marked stop line, or if there is no stop line before entering the cross walk, or at the point nearest the intersection roadway where the driver has a view of approaching traffic before entering the intersection. After stopping, the driver shall yield the right-of-way to any vehicle which has entered the intersection from another highway or which is approaching so closely on the highway so as to constitute an immediate hazard when the driver is moving across or within the intersection.

If you have been involved in and/or are the victim or an accident, please contact Wood, Atter & Wolf, P.A. regarding your rights. You can also read more Florida Traffic Laws on the Wood, Atter & Wolf, P.A. website.

Pursuant to >Title XXIII - Motor Vehicles, Chapter 316 - State Uniform Traffic Control, Section 316.123 - Vehicle Entering Stop of Yield at Intersection, a Florida driving approaching posted stop or yield must, in obedience with such sign, slow down to a reasonable speed for the existing conditions and, if required for safety to stop their vehicle before entering the crosswalk or intersection.

In Florida car accident cases, as a general rule, any car that is approaching an intersection or crosswalk shall yield the right-of-way to any vehicle or pedestrian that is already in or at the intersection.

- If at a four-way stop intersection, the driver of the first vehicle to stop at the intersection shall be the first to proceed. If two or more vehicles approach this type of intersection at the same time, the driver of the vehicle on the left shall yield the right-of-way to the vehicle on the right.

If you have been involved in and/or are the victim or an accident, please contact Wood, Atter & Wolf, P.A. regarding your rights. You can also read more Florida Traffic Laws on the Wood, Atter & Wolf, P.A. website.

Pursuant to Title XXIII - Motor Vehicles, Chapter 316 - State Uniform Traffic Control, Section 316.123 - Vehicle Entering Stop of Yield at Intersection, a Florida driving approaching posted stop or yield must, in obedience with such sign, slow down to a reasonable speed for the existing conditions and, if required for safety to stop their vehicle before entering the crosswalk or intersection.

In Florida car accident cases, as a general rule, any car that is approaching an intersection or crosswalk shall yield the right-of-way to any vehicle or pedestrian that is already in or at the intersection.

Below are some other duties imposed on Florida drivers approaching a Yield or Stop Sign:
- If approaching a stop intersection, Drivers must stop at a clearly marked stop line, or if there is no stop line before entering the cross walk, or at the point nearest the intersection roadway where the driver has a view of approaching traffic before entering the intersection.
- If at a four-way stop intersection, the driver of the first vehicle to stop at the intersection shall be the first to proceed. If two or more vehicles approach this type of intersection at the same time, the driver of the vehicle on the left shall yield the right-of-way to the vehicle on the right.

If you have been involved in and/or are the victim or an accident, please contact Wood, Atter & Wolf, P.A. regarding your rights. You can also read more Florida Traffic Laws on the Wood, Atter & Wolf, P.A. website.

A man who was recently killed after he was struck by a BMW has been identified by Jacksonville, Florida, police as 42-year-old Samir Masil. Masil was killed after he was hit by a BMW driven by 18-year-old Amer Osmanovic. The incident occurred at the intersection of Powers Avenue and Toledo Road. According to the Jacksonville Sheriff's Office, Osmanovic was driving his BMW south on Powers Avenue a little after 6:00 p.m. when he veered off the road, hit a pole, spun out of control and eventually collided with three people, a parked vehicle and a food stand. The food stand was located at a BP gas station at the Powers and Toledo intersection. After being hit, Masil and a child were transported to a nearby hospital where Masil died. The identity of the child has not been released by officials. Osmanovic was also transported to a hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. For more details please read Man killed after he was hit by a BMW near a Jacksonville, Florida, gas station and food stand.

The death of this man is a tragedy for his family and community. Automobile accidents are a leading cause of death and personal injuries in the State of Florida. Good driving consists of practice and being alert while behind the wheel. Florida drivers need to ensure nothing interferes with their ability to see the road and react to situations or operate their vehicle properly. Florida drivers must stay alert as to what is going on around them, avoid driver distraction, and concentrate on driving and being on the look out for other vehicles, pedestrians, and bicyclistsYou can read more Florida Traffic Laws on the Wood, Atter & Wolf, P.A. website.

A couple sustained personal injuries after a crash involving a water scooter near Cypress Cove Nudist Resort in Osceola County, Florida. According to emergency workers, the couple hit a sea wall while riding the scooter near the resort around 7:45 p.m. Eyewitnesses told authorities they believed the scooter was traveling at a rate near 40 mph when the crash occurred. The couple, a man and a woman, both 62-years-old, were transported to Orlando Regional Medical Center by helicopter. The man had two broken arms, as well as a laceration on his head. The woman was treated and eventually released from the medical center. For more read Couple injured in water scooter accident in Osceola, Florida.

Although wave runners, jet skis and water scooters are fun and enjoyable for people of all ages, these boats / watercrafts are highly dangerous and must be operated with great care and concentration. Below is a list of simple Safety Tips one should use when operating one of these water devices:
1. Wear a Life Jacket. Some State laws require individuals under a certain age to wear a life jacket. However, these devices have proven to save lives and should be worn by everyone who is operating these devices or riding as a passenger.
2. Use the device's safety precautions. These devices typically come equipped with a "kill cord," a device that operates as a kill switch when the operator goes overboard, deactivating the device.
3. Stay Alert. There are many other boats, skiers, divers and swimmer around, be aware of your surroundings at all times.
4. Do not drink and operate watercraft or boatss. Intoxication serves as a distraction and neither operators nor passengers should be on these devices if they have consumed alcohol.

Section 316.0895 - Following too Closely, Florida Statutes, states that the driver of any motor vehicle shall not follow another vehicle more clearly than is reasonable and prudent, while also having due regard for the sped of such vehicles and the traffic upon, and the condition of, the highway.

The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles defines "aggressive driving" as "the act of operating a motor vehicle in a selfish, bold, or pushy manner, without regard for the rights or safety of others." This type of driving includes behaviors stemming from road rage to street racing. Aggressive driving is a leading problem on Florida roadways and is a main factor in the amount of motor vehicle crashes and deaths.

Although Florida is prohibited from enforcing their aggressive driving law by state statute, aggressive driving can still be notated on a traffic citation. For example, once a driver is cited fora specific traffic infraction (i.e., Section 316.0895 - Following too Closely, Florida Statues), the issuing police officer may select the "Aggressive Driving" located on Florida traffic tickets.

"Following too Closely" combined with one of these actions is considered Aggressive Driving in the state of Florida:
1. Speeding;
2. Unsafe or improper lane change;
3. Failure to yield the right-of-way;
4. Improper passing;
5. Failure to obey traffic control devices.

You can read more Florida Traffic Laws on the Wood, Atter & Wolf, P.A. website.

Section 316.0895 - Following too Closely, Florida Statutes, states that the driver of any motor vehicle shall not follow another vehicle more clearly than is reasonable and prudent, while also having due regard for the sped of such vehicles and the traffic upon, and the condition of, the highway. Drivers of a motor vehicle that is towing another vehicle and traveling upon a roadway outside a business or residence district must stay at least 300 feet behind another motor truck.

Aggressive driving is a leading problem on Florida roadways and is a main factor in the amount of motor vehicle crashes and deaths. The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles defines "aggressive driving" as "the act of operating a motor vehicle in a selfish, bold, or pushy manner, without regard for the rights or safety of others." This type of driving includes behaviors stemming from road rage to street racing.

Aggressive driving can be notated on a traffic citation. For example, once a driver is cited fora specific traffic infraction (i.e., Section 316.0895 - Following too Closely, Florida Statues), the issuing police officer may select the "Aggressive Driving" located on Florida traffic tickets.

"Following too Closely" combined with one of these actions is considered Aggressive Driving in the state of Florida:
1. Speeding;
2. Unsafe or improper lane change;
3. Failure to yield the right-of-way;
4. Improper passing;
5. Failure to obey traffic control devices.

You can read more Florida Traffic Laws on the Wood, Atter & Wolf, P.A. website.

Section 316.0895 - Following too Closely, Florida Statutes, states that the driver of any motor vehicle shall not follow another vehicle more clearly than is reasonable and prudent, while also having due regard for the sped of such vehicles and the traffic upon, and the condition of, the highway. Those motor vehicles that are driven upon any roadway outside a business or residence district and traveling in a caravan, whether or not towing other vehicles, must allow sufficient space between each vehicle of combination of vehicles so as to enable other motor vehicles to enter or occupy such space without danger.

The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles defines "aggressive driving" as "the act of operating a motor vehicle in a selfish, bold, or pushy manner, without regard for the rights or safety of others." This type of driving includes behaviors stemming from road rage to street racing. Aggressive driving is a leading problem on Florida roadways and is a main factor in the amount of motor vehicle crashes and deaths.

Once a driver is cited for a specific traffic infraction (i.e., Section 316.0895 - Following too Closely, Florida Statues), the issuing police officer may select the "Aggressive Driving" located on Florida traffic tickets.

"Following too Closely" combined with one of these actions is considered Aggressive Driving in the State of Florida:

1. Speeding;
2. Unsafe or improper lane change;
3. Failure to yield the right-of-way;
4. Improper passing;
5. Failure to obey traffic control devices.

You can read more Florida Traffic Laws on the Wood, Atter & Wolf, P.A. website.

Pursuant to Title XXIII - Motor Vehicles, Chapter 316 - State Uniform Traffic Control, Section 316.090 - Driving on Divided Highways, whenever a Florida highway has been divided into two or more roadways, every vehicle shall be driven only upon the right-hand side of the roadway, unless directed or permitted to use another side of a roadway by official traffic control devices or police officers.

A Florida highway may be divided into two or more roadways by:
1. An intervening space;
2. A physical barrier; or
3. Any clearly indicated dividing section constructed so as to impede vehicular traffic.

Also, while driving on a divided Florida highway, no driver shall drive his or her vehicle over, across or within any dividing space, barrier or section. Exception: If driving through an opening in such physical barrier or dividing section or space, or at an established crossover or intersection, or unless specifically authorized by a public authority.

Violators of this Florida Statute will have committed a noncriminal traffic infraction, punishable as a moving violation.

In the State of Florida, yellow lane lines are indicative of divided highways. Specifically, yellow lane lines separate lanes of traffic traveling in opposite directions of one another. A single yellow line marks the left edge of the pavement on all divided highways and one-way streets.

You can read more Florida Traffic Laws on the Wood, Atter & Wolf, P.A. website.

A High Springs, Florida, firefighter was killed in a motorcycle-motor vehicle crash on U.S. 441 while he was headed to his 24-hour shift. The man was identified as 35-year-old Chad Hood of Gainesville, Florida. Hood is survived by his wife and 4-year-old son, among others. According to reports, Hood was en route to his 24-hour shift when his 1999 Suzuki motorcycle collided with a Volkswagen minivan a little after 6:30 a.m. The reports also state the collision occurred after the minivan pulled out of a Fast Track convenience store parking lot on U.S. 441. The collision between the motorcycle and the minivan caused the bike to burst into flames. The driver of the minivan, who's name not released by authorities, was the only occupant inside the van. Hood was transported to Shands at the University of Florida where he was pronounced dead. He began working for the High Springs Fire Department in 2007. For more details please read High Springs, Florida, firefighter dies in crash on U.S. 441.

The death of this man is an absolute tragedy for his family and community. Florida drivers must always stay alert while at the wheel. When driving, Florida drivers must ensure nothing interferes with their ability to see the road, react to situations or operate the vehicle properly. For an extensive list and summaries of various Florida Traffic Laws please see the Wood, Atter & Wolf, P.A. website.

Pursuant to Title XXIII - Motor Vehicles, Chapter 316 - State Uniform Traffic Control, Section 316.087 -Further Limitation on Driving to Left of Center of Roadway, drivers are prohibited from driving their vehicles on the left side of any roadway in the following conditions:

1. When the vehicle is approaching or upon the crest of a grade that obstructs the driver's view so as to create a hazard in the event another vehicle may approach from the opposite direction;
2. When driving upon a curve in the highway where the driver's view is obstructed and creates a hazard in the event another vehicle may approach from the opposite direction;
3. When the vehicle driven is within 100 feet of or traversing any intersection. However, this does not apply to any intersection on a state-maintained or county-maintained highway located outside city limits, unless marked otherwise;
4. When the vehicle driven is within 100 feet of or traversing any railroad grade crossing;
5. When the view is obstructed upon approaching within 100 feet of any bridge, viaduct or tunnel.

These limitations do NOT apply:
1. On one-way roadways
2. When an obstruction exists making it necessary to drive to the left of the center of the highway, and
3. To the driver of a vehicle turning left into or from an alley, private road or driveway.
A violation of section 316.087 is a noncriminal traffic infraction, punishable as a moving violation.

The following is a list of circumstances where Florida Drivers MAY NOT pass while driving upon a two-lane road with traffic moving in the opposite direction:
- Where there are visible signs reading "DO NOT PASS" or "NO PASSING ZONE"
- Where a solid yellow line is painted on your side of the center line
- When traveling upon hills or curves
- At intersections
- When you are within 100 feet of a bridge, viaduct, tunnel or railroad crossing.

You can read more Florida Traffic Laws on the Wood, Atter & Wolf, P.A. website.

Pursuant to Title XXIII - Motor Vehicles, Chapter 316 - State Uniform Traffic Control, Section 316.0875 - No Passing Zones, the Florida Department of Transportation and local authorities have the authority to designate portions of any highway where overtaking and passing or driving to the left of the roadway would be especially hazardous, as a No-Passing Zone. These zones shall be indicated as such by appropriate signs or markings on the highway or roadway. The signs shall also indicate the beginning and end of the No-Passing Zone. Every sign shall by clearly visible to an ordinarily observant person and shall be obeyed by every Florida driver.

When driving in a No-Passing Zone, Florida drivers shall not at any time drive on the left side of the roadway or on the left side of any pavement striping designed to mark a No-Passing Zone throughout its length. Section 316.0875 is not applicable when an obstruction exists, which makes it necessary to drive to the left of the center of the highway or roadway, nor to a Florida driver who is turning his or her vehicle left into or from an alley, private road or driveway.

The following is a list of circumstances where Florida Drivers MAY NOT pass while driving upon a two-lane road with traffic moving in the opposite direction:

- Where there are visible signs reading "DO NOT PASS" or "NO PASSING ZONE"
- Where a solid yellow line is painted on your side of the center line
- When traveling upon hills or curves
- At intersections
- When you are within 100 feet of a bridge, viaduct, tunnel or railroad crossing.

You can read more Florida Traffic Laws on the Wood, Atter & Wolf, P.A. website.

Pursuant to Title XXIII - Motor Vehicles, Chapter 316 - State Uniform Traffic Control, Section 316.088 - One-way Roadways and Rotary Traffic Islands, the Department of Transportation and local authorities, have the authority to designate any highway, roadway, part of a roadway, or specific lanes of traffic to proceed in one direction at such times, so long as such indication is indicated by official traffic control devices. When a roadway, part of a roadway, highway, etc. has been designated for one-way traffic, any vehicles on such roadway must be driven only in the designated direction. Any vehicles passing a rotary traffic island must be driven only to the right of such island.

A violation of the provisions of this statute is considered a noncriminal traffic violation, punishable as a moving violation.

Good driving consists of practice and being alert while behind the wheel. Florida drivers need to ensure nothing interferes with their ability to see the road, react to situations or operate their vehicle properly. Florida drivers must stay alert as to what is going on around them and never take their eyes off the road. You can read more Florida Traffic Laws on the Wood, Atter & Wolf, P.A. website, specifically Section 316.083 - Overtaking and Passing, Florida Statutes.

Pursuant to Title XXIII - Motor Vehicles, Chapter 316 - State Uniform Traffic Control, Section 316.089 - Driving on Roadways Laned for Traffic Florida drivers must comply with certain rules and regulations under this statute. When driving on a Florida roadway that is divided into two or more clearly marked lanes for traffic, the following rules apply:

- Drivers shall drive their vehicle as nearly as practicable entirely within a single lane and shall not move their vehicle from their said lane until they have first ascertained and determined that such movement can be made with safety.

Drivers in Florida need to aware of the challenger and obstracles they could potentially face on Florida roads and highways. Sometimes, a driver cannot control the many hazardous conditions and situations present on the road, Florida drivers should earn how to drive defensively and how to avoid such hazards. Intersections are a common place for car collisions. Florida drivers should never pass another car or change lanes at an intersection without it being safe to do so. Because of the high volume of traffic at an intersection, Florida drivers should never make any sudden changes. Doing so could easily cause an accident. You can read more Florida Traffic Laws on the Wood, Atter & Wolf, P.A. website.

Pursuant to Title XXIII - Motor Vehicles, Chapter 316 - State Uniform Traffic Control, Section 316.089 - Driving on Roadways Laned for Traffic, Florida drivers must comply with certain rules and regulations under this statute. When a Florida roadway has been divided into two or more clearly marked lanes for traffic, the following rules apply:

1. Drivers must drive their vehicle as near as practicable within a single lane and shall not move from said lane until they ascertained and determined that such movement can be made with safety;

2. When driving upon a roadway that is divided into 3 lanes and provides for two-way traffic, drivers shall not drive their vehicle in the center lane, except when overtaking and passing another vehicle traveling in the same direction, provided the center lane is clear of traffic within a safe distance, when in preparation for making a left turn, or where such center lane is at the time allocated exclusively to traffic moving in the same direction that the vehicle is proceeding.

Drivers in Florida need to aware of the challengers they could potentially face. Sometimes you cannot control the many hazardous conditions and situations present on the road, Florida drivers should earn how to drive defensively and how to avoid such hazards. You can read more Florida Traffic Laws on the Wood, Atter & Wolf, P.A. website, specifically Section 316.083 - Overtaking and Passing, Florida Statutes.

A Jacksonville, Florida construction worker tragically died as a result of a construction accident recently. The fatal head injuries occurred after the man fell from a ladder at College of Coastal Georgia's new Campus Center, confirmed Glynn County Coroner Jimmy Durden. The man was identified as 32-year-old John Thomas Orr, he died a little before noon at Southeast Georgia Health Center's Brunswick hospital.

Orr was working as a subcontractor on the project. It was reported that he was on the ladder to power on a piece of machinery. Witnesses reported hearing a loud "pop" noise, raising the possibility of electrical shock incident. However, Durden stated the autopsy revealed no evidence of electrical burns. Durden also stated the room where Orr was working had 10 foot high ceiling but Orr had removed tiles permitting him to work higher than normal. The incident is currently being investigated by Campus police and the Occupation Safety and Health Administration. For more details on this story please read Jacksonville construction workers dies from head injuries after falling from ladder.

The death of this man is a tragedy for his family and community. According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, more than 532,000 people were treated in hospital emergency rooms, clinics and other medical settings in 2007 due to injuries related to ladder use.

A 27-year-old man of Orange Park, Florida, sustained serious personal injuries in a six-vehicle crash in Fleming Island, according to the Florida Highway Patrol. According to news reports, the man was traveling in the wrong direction on U.S. 17 before the accident occurred. Per the Florida Highway Patrol Press Release, Christopher Luke Paquette was traveling North just before 11 p.m. and stopped to make a left-hand turn into Eagle Harbor Parkway. However, instead of turning, Paquette drove into the southbound lanes on U.S. 17 and proceeded to travel north toward oncoming traffic. Paquette's truck eventually collided with 3 vehicles. The third collision into a Chevy Lumina sent the Lumina spinning and into another southbound car, while the truck driven by Paquette made its final collision into a Kia Rio. Two people were hospitalized as a result of the collision, Paquette and a passenger in the Kia Rio. Paquette was transported to Orange Park Medical Center. The passenger of the Kia Rio, identified as 16-year-old Kyle Jesperson of Fleming Island, was transported to Shands Jacksonville where she was later listed in stable condition. The crash report by the FHP did not list any charges filed. For more details read Orange Park man seriously injured in 6-vehicle crash on U.S. 17.

Florida drivers should always remain alert and focused while driving on Florida roadways.

Florida law establishes duties upon drivers within the state. Among these duties is a Florida driver's duty to yield the right-of-way in certain circumstances, one of which is when a vehicle crosses the path of any public transit vehicles. Pursuant to Title XXIII - Motor Vehicles, Chapter 316 - State Uniform Traffic Control, Section 316.0815 - Duty to Yield to Public Transit Vehicles, drivers of vehicles must yield the right-of-way to any publicly owned transit bus that is traveling in the same direction when that bus has signaled and attempted to reenter the traffic flow from a specifically designated pullout bay. However, this section does not relieve the driver of any public transit bus from his or her duty to drive with due regard for the safety of all persons using the roadway.

When it comes to who has the right-of-way, Florida law only regulates who must yield (give up) the right-of-way. Every Florida driver, motorcyclist, moped rider, bicyclist and pedestrian must do everything possible to avoid a crash.

Safe driving in Florida results from practice and good habits. Safe driving in Florida is also based on being alert while behind the wheel. Drivers should ensure that nothing interferes with their ability to see the road, react to situations or operate a vehicle properly. Drivers should stay alert to their surroundings and never take their eyes off the road.

Florida law establishes various duties upon drivers within the State. Florida's traffic laws establish rules and regulations that Florida drivers must follow. Among these duties, rules and regulations, Florida drivers may only pass vehicles on certain sides of the roadway and in certain circumstances. For example, pursuant to Title XXIII - Motor Vehicles, Chapter 316 - State Uniform Traffic Control, Section 316.082 - Passing Vehicles Proceeding in Opposite Direction, Florida drivers may only pass vehicles proceeding in opposite directions shall pass each other to the right. When passing a vehicle traveling in the opposite direction upon a roadway that have a width no more than one line of traffic in each direction, each driver shall give to the other at least one-half of the main-traveled portion of the roadway, as nearly as possible.

A violation of these provisions is a noncriminal traffic infraction, punishable as a moving violation.

Drivers should take the following precautions when passing a vehicle:
- Keep a safe distance from the vehicle you are attempting to pass. The closer you are to the overtaken vehicle, the less you can see ahead (this is especially true when passing trucks, trailers and other large vehicles).

- Before passing, check your blind spots and make sure you have adequate of time and space to pass the vehicle safely.

Florida law establishes several duties upon drivers within the state. Among these duties is a Florida driver's duty to yield the right-of-way in certain circumstances, one of which is when a vehicle is approaching an animal. Pursuant to Title XXIII - Motor Vehicles, Chapter 316 - State Uniform Traffic Control, Section 316.0825 - Vehicle Approaching an Animal, every Florida driver has the duty to use reasonable care when approaching or passing a person who is riding or leading an animal upon a roadway or the shoulder thereof. Also, the driver must not intentionally startle or injure the animal.

A violation of the provisions under section 316.0825, Florida Statutes, is considered a noncriminal traffic infraction, punishable as a moving violation.

Animals, both wild and domestic, move unpredictably towards or across the path of a traveling vehicle. When an animal does cross the path of a Florida motorist, he or she should slow down and yield the right-of-way. Drivers should be especially aware and take extra precautions when traveling on rural roadways at night.

The driver of any vehicle has certain duties when overtaking and passing another vehicle that is traveling in the same direction as the overtaking vehicle. The following are duties of the driver of an overtaking vehicle:

1. The driver of the overtaking vehicle shall pass to the left of the overtaken vehicle.

2. The driver of the overtaking vehicle shall not return to the right side of the roadway until safely clearing the overtaken vehicle.

3. When overtaking a bicycle or other nonmotorized vehicle, the driver of the overtaking vehicle must pass the bicycle or nonmotorized vehicle at a safe distance not less than 3 feet.

These duties are provided under Title XXIII - Motor Vehicles, Chapter 316 - State Uniform Traffic Control, Section 316.083 - Overtaking and Passing a Vehicle.

Passing and/or overtaking another vehicle can be a dangerous task, especially on two-lane roads, rural roads or when attempting such action at night. Florida drivers should always pass on the left, given the appropriate signal, not speed and ensure a safe distance between his or her vehicle and the overtaken vehicle.

Title XXIII - Motor Vehicles, Chapter 316 - State Uniform Traffic Control, Section 316.083 - Overtaking and Passing a Vehicles, governs the rules, regulations and limitations applicable to vehicles overtaking and passing other vehicles that are proceeding in the same direction.

- The driver a vehicle overtaking another vehicle traveling in the same direction shall give an appropriate signal (provided in section 316.156), pass to the left at a safe distance, and not again drive to the right side of the roadway until safely clear and a safe distance from the overtaken vehicle.
- The driver of a vehicle overtaking a bicycle or other nonmotorized vehicle must pass such at a safe distance not less than 3 feet between the bicycle or other nonmotozied vehicle.

Exception:
- When overtaking and passing on the right is permitted, the driver of an overtaken vehicle must give the right-of-way to the overtaking vehicle, by audible signal or blinking headlamps of the overtaken vehicle if overtaking is attempted at nighttime. The driver of the overtaken vehicle is prohibited from increasing the speed of his or her vehicle until completely passed by the overtaking vehicle.

Essentially, Section 316.083, Florida Statutes, permits overtaking vehicles on the left provided the driver of the overtaking vehicle properly uses a signal, that a safe distance (at least 3 feet when overtaking a bicycle or other nonmotorized vehicle) exists between the two and the overtaking vehicle does not exceed the posted speed limit. The overtaken vehicle must yield the right-of-way and not increase speed.

Florida drivers are permitted to overtake and pass on the right side of another vehicle only under the following conditions:

1. When the vehicle overtaken is making or about to make a left turn;
2. When traveling upon a street or highway with unobstructed pavement not occupied by parked vehicles;
3. When traveling upon a one-way street, or upon any roadway on which traffic is restricted to one direction of movement, where the roadway is free from obstructions.

Florida drivers are permitted to overtake and pass other vehicles on the right only in certain conditions. However, the movement of overtaking and passing shall never be done if such movement requires the driver to travel off the pavement or main-traveled portion of the roadway.

A violation of section 316.084 - When Overtaking on the Right is Permitted, Florida Statutes, is deemed a noncriminal traffic infraction, punishable as a moving violation.

Under Florida law, drivers shall not drive to the left side of the center of the roadway in overtaking and passing another vehicle that is proceeding in the same direction, unless otherwise authorized or such left side is clearly visible and is free of oncoming traffic for a sufficient distance to permit such overtaking. Overtaking and passing another vehicle should be done without interfering with the operation of any vehicle approaching from the opposite direction of any vehicle overtaken. In every instance of overtaking and passing the overtaking vehicle must return to an authorized lane of travel as soon as practicable. In the event the overtaking of another vehicle involves the use of a lane authorized for vehicles traveling from the opposite direction, the overtaking vehicle must return to its authorized lane become coming within 200 feet of any approaching vehicle.

Drivers shall not travel from a direct course in any lane on any Florida highway until he or she has determined that that his or her vehicle is not being approached or passed by any other vehicle.

A violation of this section is a noncriminal traffic infraction, punishable as a moving violation. For the plain language of this Florida Statute please read Pursuant to Title XXIII - Motor Vehicles, Chapter 316 - State Uniform Traffic Control, Section 316.085 - Limitations on overtaking, passing, changing lanes and changing course.

Pursuant to Title XXIII - Motor Vehicles, Chapter 316 - State Uniform Traffic Control, Section 316.087 -Further Limitation on Driving to Left of Center of Roadway, drivers are prohibited from driving their vehicles on the left side of any roadway in the following conditions:

1. When the vehicle is approaching or upon the crest of a grade that obstructs the driver's view so as to create a hazard in the event another vehicle may approach from the opposite direction;

2. When driving upon a curve in the highway where the driver's view is obstructed and creates a hazard in the event another vehicle may approach from the opposite direction;

3. When the vehicle driven is within 100 feet of or traversing any intersection. However, this does not apply to any intersection on a state-maintained or county-maintained highway located outside city limits, unless marked otherwise;

4. When the vehicle driven is within 100 feet of or traversing any railroad grade crossing;

5. When the view is obstructed upon approaching within 100 feet of any bridge, viaduct or tunnel.

These limitations do NOT apply:
1. On one-way roadways

2. When an obstruction exists making it necessary to drive to the left of the center of the highway, and

3. To the driver of a vehicle turning left into or from an alley, private road or driveway.

A violation of section 316.087 is a noncriminal traffic infraction, punishable as a moving violation.

A Jacksonville man sustained life threatening injuries from an automobile accident that occurred on San Pablo Road. The accident occurred in the southbound lanes of San Pablo Road near the entrance to the Mayo Clinic. According to officials, the driver of a pickup truck stopped in the southbound lane to pick up building materials that had fallen out of his truck. One vehicle swerved out of the lane to miss the driver of the pickup truck, but the man was struck by a second vehicle. R.A. Harville of the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office said that the driver’s view was obstructed by the vehicle that made the evasive move. The victim sustained major personal injuries, and he was taken to Shands Jacksonville Medical Center for treatment. Police said that another automobile wreck occurred in the northbound lanes of San Pablo due to the driver looking at the first accident.

The leading cause of most automobile accidents and near accidents is driver distractions. According to a study by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and Virginia Tech Transportation Institute, 80 percent of crashes and 65 percent of near-crashes involve some sort of driver distraction. Further, the distraction occurred within three seconds of the vehicle crash. According to the study, the top five actions that occurred before a crash were: cell phone use, reaching for an object inside the vehicle, looking at an object outside the vehicle, reading, and applying makeup.

It order to avoid automobile accidents on Jacksonville's roadways, it is important that all Jacksonville drivers exercise caution and avoid distractions when driving. For more information on this topic, see Man Struck In San Pablo Road Crash.