Starting July 1, Florida drivers caught speeding more than 50 mph over the posted limit could face much harsher penalties—including jail time—under a new state law aimed at cracking down on dangerous driving.
The law targets what the state calls “super speeders,” and introduces a range of escalating consequences.
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
The law also mandates that anyone caught driving more than 50 mph over the limit must appear in court. Simply paying a fine and moving on will no longer be an option.
Law enforcement officers also have the authority to impose additional fines for those speeding 30 mph or 50 mph over the limit, although those extra penalties are not mandatory.
The new law is drawing support from residents and safety advocates.
“I genuinely believe that’s a great idea,” said Christian Inyang, who spoke to News4JAX alongside Bailee Crews. “It’s not safe, especially with kids on the road. If you’re going 50 mph over the speed limit, that’s definitely unlawful.”
“When I heard about it, I was like, yes—new Florida law,” added Patrick Shipman.
News4JAX Crime and Safety Analyst Tom Hackney said the law is about saving lives.
“I really feel like it’s going to put some teeth into what currently exists,” Hackney said. “There’s always somebody driving carelessly and recklessly—and it has to do with speed.”
According to data from North Florida Safety Training, between 48,000 and 52,000 people die on U.S. roads each year.
The law goes into effect Tuesday, July 1, just ahead of the busy 4th of July holiday travel weekend.
