JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Florida toughened the reins on “super speeders” with harsher penalties for drivers who choose to push the pedal more than 50 mph past the posted speed limit.
The new law went into effect on July 1, and News4JAX took a look to see if the changes made an impact after enforcement began.
As of Sept. 2, the Florida Highway Patrol provided the following statistics:
- 18 people were cited for speeding above 100 miles per hour
- 12 people were cited for going 50 mph over the speed limit
Officers with the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office issued nine criminal citations with one arrest by Labor Day.
The St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office said it has made four arrests, including three people accused of driving over 100 mph.
In a recent high-speed chase that went from St. Johns County to North Jax police eventually used what’s called a pit maneuver to stop the driver who was able to walk away in handcuffs… but police say many times drivers like these don’t walk away.
“At that speed, you’re traveling such a massive distance in such a short period of time,” Crime and Safety Analyst Tom Hackney said. “All it takes is one person who doesn’t know you’re there, and then we’ve got a massive crash at very high speeds.
For a first offense, violators could face:
- Up to 30 days in jail
- A $500 fine
Repeat offenders—those caught again within five years—could face:
- Up to 90 days in jail
- A $1,000 fine
- A driver’s license suspension for at least six months
Orlando Diaz, a Corvette owner, said he takes his car to the track to satisfy his need for speed. Although other drivers often challenge him when they spot the Corvette, Diaz declines because he has too much to risk.
“I am a father and husband and want to come home safe,” Diaz said. “My car is just for show.”
Hackney advised other drivers who see super speeders in their rearview mirrors not to brake check them or race to get their tag number. That could only make matters worse.
It’s best to call the police if it is safe to do so.