NEW LAW SENDS BAD DRIVERS BACK TO SCHOOL

The Florida Dept. of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles reminds motorists of a new law that went into effect with the new year. Drivers who are found to be at-fault in 3 crashes within 36 month period will be required to successfully complete a Department-approved driver improvement course that indicates behind-the-wheel training and an assessment of their driving abilities.

In an effort to make the roads safer, those who display a pattern of poor driving ability or judgment will be required to complete a driver improvement course. This new law is designed to modify the behavior of some of the worst drivers.

The new law will count at-fault crashes as far back as 2007, so after Jan 1, 2010, the Department will notify any driver who causes a crash and has atleast two at-fault crashes in the preceding 36 months. The affected drivers will then be responsible for completing an approved course within 90 days in order to avoid the cancellation of their driving privilege. Each course will include a minimum of 16 hours, to include four hours of behind -the - wheel training.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Admin. estimates that the average cost of a crash in the United States is approximately $38,000. During the 36-month period ending December 31, 2008 there were 2,277 drivers with 3 or more at-fault crashes. That figure include drivers from nearly every age group. According to Department estimates, more than 1000 Florida drivers may be subject to new requirements during 2010.
www.flhsmv.gov