Teen Distracted Driving in Florida: What You Need to Know (and How to Stay Safe)

Feeling nervous about getting your Florida driver’s license? That’s completely normal. Driving opens up a world of freedom—but it also comes with big responsibility. At DriversEd.comDriversEd.comDriversEd.com, we’ve helped millions of students (and their parents) feel prepared, confident, and safe on the road.

That’s why we’re sounding the alarm on distracted driving. The risks for teens are serious, but with the right awareness and habits, you can stay ahead of them.

Quick Stats: Why This Matters

• A crash happens every 44 seconds in Florida04 02 Life Takes A Turn Every 44 Seconds On Floridas Roadways 2024—and distracted driving is a major cause.

• In 2023, nearly 300 people lost their lives and more than 2,200 were seriously injured due to distracted driving.

• Teen drivers in Florida were involved in over 56,000 crashes, leading to hundreds of preventable injuries and fatalities.

What Counts as Distracted Driving?

Distractions fall into three main categories:

• Visual: Looking away from the road (e.g., reading a text or checking GPS)

• Manual: Removing your hands from the wheel (e.g., adjusting music or reaching for food)

• Cognitive: Thinking about anything other than driving (e.g., daydreaming or talking with passengers)

Even a two-second distraction can lead to a life-changing crash. Learn about distracted driving behaviors and how to prevent themWhy Were All Guilty Distracted Driving Behaviors TrendingWhy Were All Guilty Distracted Driving Behaviors Trending.

Even If You Think You’re Careful…

Even if you only glance at a message…
Even if you use hands-free tech…
Even if you wait for red lights to text…
You’re still at risk. Most crashes caused by distraction happen in under two seconds.

What’s at Stake? Fines, Points & Premiums

In Florida, texting while driving is a primary offense. That means law enforcement can stop you for it alone.

Here’s what you’re facing:

• First offense: $30 fine plus court costs

• Second offense: $60 fine and 3 points on your license

• Insurance impact: A single ticket can raise your premium by hundreds

Distracted driving can cost you far more than a text is worth.

Smart Ways to Stay Focused

You don’t need to ditch your phone—you just need to outsmart distraction.

• Use Do Not Disturb While Driving mode (available on iOS and Android)

• Set your playlist and route before hitting the road

• Try tech tools that support focus—see our guide on why we’re all guilty of distraction, and what to do about itWhy Were All Guilty Distracted Driving Behaviors TrendingWhy Were All Guilty Distracted Driving Behaviors Trending

• Understand how emotion impacts focus in our deep dive on how unsafe behaviors affect your crash riskJust How Much Do Distraction Emotion And Other Unsafe Behaviors Impact Driving Risk Trending

Your Best Defense? Be Proactive

You have more power than you think. Knowing the risks—and taking action—is your best move.

At DriversEd.comDriversEd.comDriversEd.com, our Florida drivers ed courseFlorida is designed to help you become a safer, more focused driver. You’ll learn practical strategies to avoid distraction and stay in control, every time you get behind the wheel.

Want More Tips?

Check out our library of teen driver safety tips and resourcesTrending to keep learning and stay sharp.