TALLAHASSEE,Fla. (WTXL) - Students celebrating spring break are being urged by Florida law-enforcement officials to enjoy their vacations responsibly by not driving impaired.
Plan to Arrive Alive, Don't Drink and Drive, FHP says in its campaign directed toward students flocking to Florida's beaches on spring break.
"With record numbers of motorists on Florida roads, students and families enjoying their spring break are reminded to designate a sober driver or find a safe ride home," said DHSMV Executive Director Terry L. Rhodes.
"Drinking and driving can turn a fun and exciting vacation into a nightmare. Help everyone Arrive Alive this spring break; plan ahead and never let an impaired friend drive. Take the keys and save a life."
Preliminary data shows there were more than 37,000 crashes resulting in more than 2,000 serious bodily injuries and 295 fatalities statewide in March 2017. Those numbers made March the month with the highest number of crashes, injuries and fatalities.
"The Florida Highway Patrol is enhancing its efforts this month, with an emphasis on impaired drivers," said Colonel Gene S. Spaulding, director of the Florida Highway Patrol. "Be sure to use good judgment, enjoy your time in Florida and don’t drink or use drugs and drive."
Since 2013, more DUI citations have been issued in March than in any other month of the year.
Impaired drivers put the lives of everyone on the roadway at risk and can face serious legal and monetary consequences. Penalties for DUIs can include expensive fines, license revocation and jail time.
