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What is the legal drinking age in the State of Florida?

The legal drinking age in the State of Florida is 21 years of age. All those under 21 who have tried alcohol were breaking the law.

What is a drug?

Any natural or man-made substance that changes the function or structure in a living being is a drug. Alcohol is a drug. It is the most used and abused drug in the world.

What is a depressant?

A depressant is a drug that slows down the central nervous system. Depressants are prescribed as sedatives, barbiturates or tranquilizers. These drugs are used to aid insomnia, nerve disorders and anxiety.

Name several depressant drugs: Barbiturates - (Downers) Valium, Librium, Xanax and Rohypnol (roofies), a sedative 10 times more potent than Valium.

What type of drug is alcohol?

It is a depressant.

Alcohol is made up of 3 groups: Wines, Beers and Distilled Liquors People of the ancient world began to make alcohol beverages originally to preserve food (not for drinking purposes).

The first alcoholic beverage known to man was wine. Wines were widely cultivated in Egypt about 3,000 BC. In 97 BC wine was a trade item in Rome. The Bible contains the earliest record of man using alcohol. It is said that after the great flood, Noah planted a vineyard and he drank the wine and became impaired. A famous monk Dom Perignon about 1670 AD was a wine maker and created champagne.

In Mesopotamia, brewing of beer began as early as 10,000 BC. In 5000 BC the ancient Babylonians and Chinese created the art of brewing beer. In the middle ages, European monks developed the art of beer making. Louis Pasteur established that yeast is a living microorganism and was able to control the conversion of sugar to alcohol. The Saxons and Danes believed beer to be the only beverage consumed in Valhalla, the dwelling place of their gods.

Vodka originated in Poland and Russia in the beginning of the 12th century. It was made for medical purposes to be used as an anesthetic and disinfectant. It was not until the 14th century that vodka was used for drinking. Rum is distilled from sugar cane and rice and dates back to the days of Sheba and King Solomon. In the 1500's a trade agreement between Europeans, Africans and the New England Colonies started known as the Triangular Trade. The Colonies traded rum for African slaves. The Boston Tea Party in 1773 was inspired by a tax that London wanted to impose on the colonist's rum trade. The royal Navy issued rum rations in 1655 as a substitute for water and beer, which went badly within weeks at sea.

How does alcohol and other drugs enter and leave the body?

(The rate of absorption and elimination of alcohol and other drugs)

How does alcohol enter your body (Absorption)?

When people drink alcohol, the alcohol goes directly through the walls of the stomach and small intestine. It is absorbed into the bloodstream, and it is not digested. Since alcohol is very similar to water, the blood will carry the alcohol to various tissues and organs of the body. The brain and muscle tissues contain a high water content and will receive a large share of the distributed alcohol. Blood is carried to the brain, and this affects the central nervous system. About 20 percent of the alcohol is absorbed directly across the walls of an empty stomach and can reach the brain within one minute.

How does alcohol leave your body (Elimination)?

As soon as alcohol enters the blood stream, the body begins getting rid of the alcohol. Most of the metabolism of alcohol takes place in the liver that breaks down 90% of the alcohol. Only a small portion (2-10%) leaves through the kidneys or lungs. Depending on your physical characteristics (body weight), or what you ate in the last several hours, alcohol will leave the body at a rate of 1 drink per hour. Example: If you have 3 drinks, it will take more than 3 hours for alcohol to leave your system. The weight of a person can affect the volume of alcohol in the blood. Usually a heavier person can consume more alcohol than a lighter person and still have the same proportion of alcohol in the blood. Black coffee, a cold shower, cool air, or your own special remedy will not work! Time is the only solution.

How is cocaine absorbed and eliminated in the body?

Cocaine gets into your body by snorting, smoking or injection. Snorting is the most common use of cocaine. When snorted into the nose, cocaine is slowly absorbed into the blood stream through the mucous membranes in the nasal and sinus cavities. The cocaine enters the blood stream and is circulated through the body. It is metabolized in the liver. Cocaine reaches the brain slowly and in small doses. Its high lasts 10 to 20 minutes. Cocaine's effects are short lived, and once the drug leaves the brain, the user can experience a "coke crash" that includes depression, fatigue and irritability. Cocaine will stay in your system 2 to 4 days.

How is marijuana absorbed and eliminated in the body?

Most people that use marijuana will roll it into a cigarette (called a "joint"). The marijuana plant contains over 400 different chemicals. The main active chemical in marijuana is delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol; THC for short. The marijuana is inhaled into the lungs, adheres to the lining of nasal passages through which it enters directly into the bloodstream. A small amount is metabolized in the lungs. The liver metabolizes most of the THC. The liver converts the THC into a metabolite that makes the user "high". THC in marijuana travels to the brain. The brain has receptors found in the part of the brain called the hippocampus, which processes memory. When the THC attaches to the receptors, short-term memory is weakened. Within a few minutes of inhaling marijuana, a person will start to feel impaired. This feeling will last 2 to 3 hours. Marijuana will stay in the body from 3 to 30 days.

How is heroin absorbed and eliminated in the body?

Heroin is a narcotic. The half-life for heroin is only 3-8 minutes and it clears most systems in the body within a couple of days. Heroin usually comes in powder form. It can be different colors depending on how refined it is - white powder is usually more refined than brown or pink rocks, which are lumpy powders. Heroin is usually injected, smoked or snorted. It is absorbed into the blood and acts on the brain. Heroin in the body is rapidly metabolized and its metabolites are rapidly excreted in the urine.

How are hallucinogens absorbed and eliminated in the body?

It depends on the hallucinogen. LSD is usually taken orally and is absorbed in the stomach. Mushrooms are eaten. Other hallucinogens such as salvia divinorum or DMT can be smoked. LSD is metabolized in the liver and is thereafter excreted in your urine.

How are inhalants absorbed and eliminated in the body?

Inhalant, chemical vapors are taken in several ways, including sniffing, snorting, or spraying the inhalant directly into the nose or mouth, putting it into a bag or other containers and then inhaling from there, putting the vapor onto a rag, or inhaling nitrous oxide from balloons. Due to the rapid entry of the fumes/chemicals into the bloodstream through the lungs, the effect will kick in within 20-30 seconds and last for the next 30-40 minutes. Inhalant vapors often contain more than one chemical. Some leave the body quickly, but others are absorbed by fatty tissues in the brain and nervous system. They can stay there for a long time.

How are amphetamines absorbed and eliminated in the body?

Amphetamines are taken orally on a strict schedule based on a doctor's orders. Illegal amphetamines are taken orally, smashed into a powder and "snorted," or shot into veins. Methamphetamines (crank) are melted on a spoon and inhaled as the vapor rises. Smoking Crystal Meth (ICE) effects occur in seconds.

Amphetamines are excreted through the urine after being transformed by liver enzymes. Half of the amount of amphetamine that you take is eliminated by your body in less than 11 hours (amphetamine elimination half-life). However, heavy and chronic amphetamine use can be detected in your system up to one week after your last dose.

How are MDMA, absorbed and eliminated in the body?

MDMA (Ecstasy) is taken orally, usually as a capsule or tablet. MDMA is rapidly absorbed into the human blood stream, but once in the body MDMA interferes with the body's ability to metabolize, or break down the drug. As a result, additional doses of MDMA can produce unexpectedly high blood levels, which could worsen the cardiovascular and other toxic effects of this drug. MDMA also interferes with the metabolism of other drugs, including some of the adulterants that may be found in MDMA tablets.

MDMA is metabolized in the liver to MDA, which is then excreted in the urine. Approximately 50-70%; of the total MDMA dose is recovered in the urine as MDMA and other metabolites. Although MDMA is metabolized in the body, a large proportion is excreted unchanged in the urine.

The Short Term Effects of Alcohol and Other Drugs On the Human Body

(Specifically, how heart rate and respiration are affected. Effects of alcohol on the brain, nervous system,

judgment, alertness, vision, physical condition, coordination and reaction time, motor skills)

The short term effects that alcohol and other drugs will have on an individual depends on several different factors such as how much a person weighs, his age, as well as his gender. Those factors will also vary depending on how much alcohol the person consumes - what type of alcohol he drinks, whether he mixes alcohols, if there is any food in his stomach, and if he has any medicine in his system.

Heart rate and Respiration: Alcohol can cause the heart rate to reduce more than normal, or healthy. More so, it also slows down the heart beat rate to an extent which may cause a person to lose consciousness altogether.

Brain: When you put them into your body (often by swallowing, inhaling, or injecting them), drugs find their way into your bloodstream and are transported to parts of your body, such as your brain. In the brain, drugs may intensify or dull your senses, alter your sense of alertness, and sometimes decrease physical pain. It may result in difficulty walking, blurred vision, slurred speech, slowed reaction times, and impaired memory.

Nervous system: Our nerves have certain sensory receptors. These receptors pass messages for our sensory organs to the brain for processing. This is a very fast process. However, depressants cause the receptors to get blocked. This prevents the messages from getting processed, causing a flaw in functioning. This is the reason why people end up having blurry vision and reduced motor control in an impaired stupor, hence, following the rule "No Drinking and Driving" is very important. These are mostly what are perceived as the short-term psychological effects of alcohol.

Vision: Alcohol affects vision in the following ways - it narrows the visual field, reduces resistance to glare, interferes with the ability to differentiate intensities of light, causes blurred vision and lessens sensitivity to colors.

Judgment: Often alcohol impairs judgment - making someone seem more confident and do things he wouldn't normally do, which can result in injury, unwanted sexual activity, or even death. Good judgment decreases with the use of alcohol. The concern for physical well-being also lessens. An impaired driver may take unnecessary and dangerous risks. The driver may drive too fast, tailgate or run a red light.

Alertness: Alcohol is a depressant. Alcohol slows all nerve impulses and body functions. It hinders the driver's reaction to changing driving conditions and situations. Keeping your mind on the task of driving is diminished.

Physical condition: Alcohol has serious physiological effects on drivers. Physical fitness is a major aspect of being a safe driver. The use and abuse of alcohol and other drugs pose a serious health problem that can severely impair a person's ability to properly perform driving tasks. Alcohol also has some serious psychological effects that can cause abnormal behavior. Alcohol is a depressant that easily qualifies as a mind-altering drug, which can lead to anger and aggressive driving behavior.

Coordination and reaction time: The ability to react quickly and safely to emergencies or a hazard on the road is reduced. Alcohol consumption as low as .02 percent BAL will cause a person to take longer to react. The coordination skills necessary to control a vehicle with hands, eyes and feet in response to other vehicles on the road are reduced.

Driving an automobile is usually taken for granted as being a relatively easy task, not requiring much conscious effort or critical judgment. Because alcohol acts to depress the reticular activating system, several things can occur. The altering mechanism is depressed such that a person does not become aware of potentially hazardous or dangerous situations that the sensory functions detect. The sensory functions themselves are deteriorated and may not be supplying complete or correct information to the brain. A person's motor functions are impaired; yet, because of alcohol's depressant effect, that person will feel less inhibited and more self-confident about his driving skills. As a result, a person, after having consumed alcohol, is more likely to speed into high-risk situations which would normally be avoided or treated cautiously.

The short term effects of drugs on the human body.

Hallucinogens are as follows: Increased heart rate, increased blood pressure, heart failure, abnormal, rapid breathing, lung failure, changed emotional feelings, confusion, disorientation, suspiciousness, mixed-up speech, loss of muscle control, meaningless movements, irrational actions, violent behavior, distorted reality, aggressiveness, distorted sense of time and space, sense of relaxation and well-being, nausea and loss of appetite, chills and flushing, shaking and or poor coordination, distorted body image (feeling of floating or out-of-body experiences and dilated eyes are short term effects of hallucinogens).

Hallucinogenic properties can strongly influence the senses, so drivers may react to objects or sounds that aren't there, and place themselves and other road users in danger. Coordination skills are likely to be greatly affected, and you may experience anxiety, blurred vision and a sense of detachment from reality - all of which could be deadly on the road. Hallucinogenic properties, ecstasy can distort your sense of vision and heighten sense of sound. Your concentration can be affected, while you may become over-confident and are more likely to take dangerous risks.

Amphetamines short term effects are as follows: Anorexia, hyperactivity, fatigue, dilated pupils, blurred vision, dizziness, elevated heartbeat, headache, lack of appetite, rapid breathing, restlessness, increased alertness are short effects of amphetamines. Amphetamines might give you a sense of heightened alertness and confidence. They can be highly dangerous for drivers as they distort your perceptions and can make you feel anxious, prone to panic attacks and lose coordination.

Heroin short-term effects are these symptoms as follows: The initial euphoric effects of heroin cause the user to feel care-free, relaxed and drowsy with a sense of warmth and wellbeing. Although these euphoric effects appear pleasurable, there are many additional negative short-term effects that make heroin very dangerous and deadly; euphoria, nodding off (alternately alert and drowsy state), dry mouth, severe itching, constricted pupils, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, slowed mental function, reduced physical pain, warm flushed skin, weakness in muscles, slowed breathing, overdose and/or death.

Heroin can slow down a person's reaction time, distort perception of speed and distance, reduce concentration and coordination when driving.

Inhalants: short-term effects are these symptoms are as follows: Most inhalants act directly on the nervous system to produce mind-altering effects. Within seconds, the user experiences impairment and other effects similar to those from alcohol. There are a variety of effects that may be experienced during or shortly after use, including: slurred speech-drunk, dizzy or dazed appearance, inability to coordinate movement, hallucinations and delusions, hostility, apathy, impaired judgment, unconsciousness, severe headaches, rashes around the nose and mouth, prolonged sniffing of these chemicals can induce irregular and rapid heartbeat and lead to heart failure and death within minutes. Death from suffocation can occur by replacing oxygen in the lungs with the chemical, and then in the central nervous system, so that breathing ceases.

Driving is dangerous and unsafe because it affects your ability to judge speed and distance, which increases the chances of a crash.

MDMA short-term effects are these symptoms are as follows: Distorts time and perception, increases enjoyment from touching, inability to regulate temperature, sharp increase in body temperature, hyperthermia, heatstroke, liver, kidney, and cardiovascular system failure, perceptual changes, anxiety, jaw-clenching, dry mouth, and appetite changes, blood pressure increases, headaches, chills, eye twitching, blurred vision, nausea, dehydration, muscle tension, severe sweating, seizures and death.

It affects coordination and the ability to judge speed and distance. MDMA also increases a person's confidence so he/she is more likely to take dangerous risks.

The Long Term Effects of Alcohol and Other Drugs On the Human Body

(Specifically, liver damage, stomach damage, pancreatic damage, esophagus damage, heart damage and brain damage.

Associated weigh loss/gain, nutritional factors. Long term effects of alcohol and other drugs.)

Alcoholism is the third leading health problem in the U.S. Malnutrition occurs when the enzymes that are produced in the liver are affected by alcohol draining the vitamins and minerals. It can produce brain damage and cancer of the mouth and stomach. It can lead to heart disease, ulcers, gastritis, damage to the pancreas and liver damage. The liver is the primary site of alcohol metabolism. It is the part of the body that is most affected by alcohol. When the liver becomes diseased, the functions of other systems that depend on a proper working liver will be affected. Cirrhosis of the liver is the ninth leading cause of death in the U.S. Hepatitis is the inflammation of the liver. Half of the cancers in the esophagus, larynx and mouth are linked to alcohol. Fetal Alcohol Syndrome is the leading known environmental cause of mental retardation in the Western World. Drinking of alcohol by a pregnant mother may cause physical birth defects, growth deficiencies, deformities, and/or behavioral abnormalities. Alcohol use impairs the functioning of the immune system as it weakens the body's ability to fight off disease, and a weakened immune system can increase in the number of colds a person experiences. Alcohol blocks the absorption of essential nutrients, and so alcohol consumption contributes to malnutrition.

Depending on The Drug, Long-Term Effects Vary

Marijuana: Long-term effects:

It can cause the following medical conditions: respiratory problems, lung damage, and cancer.

Memory and concentration impairments.

Possible motivational syndrome involving decreased motivation.

Cocaine: Long-term effects:

May cause extreme alertness, watchfulness, impaired judgment, impulsiveness, and compulsively repeated acts.

May cause stuffiness, runny nose, tissue deterioration inside the nose, and perforation of the nasal septum.

Barbiturates: Long-term effects:

May include over-sedation, decreased motivation, apathy, and lack of interest in surroundings.

A person may experience headaches, dizziness, sleep disorders, anxiety, depression, and tremors.

There may be an increase in appetite and impairment of thinking, memory, and judgment.

Heroin: Long-term effects:

May include impaired vision, pulmonary complications, and menstrual irregularity.

A person may experience nightmares, hallucinations, and mood swings.

Amphetamines: Long-term effects:

Anxiety and agitation.

Sleeplessness.

Higher blood pressure and irregular heartbeat.

Increased susceptibility to disease.

Hallucinogens long term effect on your body: Research has shown changes in the mental functions of some heavy users of LSD. These include signs similar to those of organic brain damage, such as impaired memory and attention span, mental confusion, and difficulty with abstract thinking. There is also evidence to suggest that hallucinogenic mushrooms contain many chemicals that the liver cannot tolerate and amphetamines (speed) can damage your liver. Cocaine and ecstasy can cause liver toxicity and even liver failure. Hallucinogens affect your brain. Hallucinogens alter how the brain perceives time, reality, and the environment around you. They also affect the way you move, react to situations, think, hear, and see. This may make you think that you're hearing voices, seeing images, and feeling things that don't exist.

Hallucinogens affect your heart. The use of hallucinogens leads to an increase in heart rate and blood pressure. Hallucinogens can put you into a coma. They can also cause heart and lung failure. Hallucinogens affect your well-being. The use of hallucinogens may change the way you feel emotionally. They may cause you to feel confused, suspicious, and disoriented. Use of PCP may interfere with hormones related to normal growth as well as with the learning process.

Topic

Comparison of the Effects of Different Types of Drugs.

(Specifically, antihistamines, pain relievers, tranquilizers, hallucinogens, stimulants and narcotics)

What are Antihistamines?

They are used to control allergy symptoms.

How can antihistamines affect driving?

Some antihistamines contain chemical substances that are found in Benadryl or Chlor-trimeton. These products can produce side effects that affect driving. They can cause drowsiness, slower reaction times, decreased attention and coordination. A person can be arrested for DUI under the Influence of a Chemical or Controlled Substance, if normal faculties are impaired. Always be aware that both over-the-counter medications and prescription drugs can affect your ability to drive safely.

What are Tranquilizers?

Tranquilizers are depressants (downers) that slow down the central nervous system. Librium, Valium and Rohypnol (roofies) are considered tranquilizers. Rohypnol sedation occurs in 20 to 30 minutes and lasts 8 hours. Rohypnol is not legal in the United States.

What are Pain Relievers?

Pain relievers in some cases contain controlled substances or narcotics. The narcotic morphine is often used before or after surgery for severe pain. Codeine is used for milder pain. Oxycontin is an oral pain reliever. Opioids act by attaching to specific proteins called opioid receptors, which are found in the brain and spinal cord. When these drugs attach to certain opioid receptors, they effectively block the transmission of pain messages to the brain. Both tranquilizers and pain relievers will slow down the central nervous system. These drugs will affect your ability to drive an automobile safely, cause slow reaction time, decrease eye-hand coordination, and cause poor judgment and drowsiness.

What are Hallucinogens?

Hallucinogens are drugs that distort the perception of objective reality.

Street Names: PCP (angel dust, rocket fuel, wack); LSD (blue heaven, acid, sunshine); Peyote (buttons, mescaline).

Facts: Hallucinogens are Controlled Substance Act Schedule 1 (CSA 1) drugs. In 2019, there were 1.1 million persons aged 12 or older who had used hallucinogens for the first time within the past 12 month. The average age at first use among recent hallucinogen users in 2019 is 19.9 years. The number of past year initiates of PCP aged 12 or older was 32,000 in 2019. The average age at first use of PCP in 2019 was 17.1 years. The number of past year initiates of Ecstasy was 751,000 in 2019.

Topic

History

PCP: Developed by Parke-Davis Company in 1957 for use in veterinarian medicine as a powerful tranquilizer. This drug produced many postoperative problems such as delirium, delusion and psychotic behavior.

LSD: First manufactured in 1938 by Swiss Scientist Albert Hoffman. While experimenting with a fungus that grows on cereal grasses (rye) a small amount of the solution came in contact with his skin. The LSD was absorbed through the skin causing a hallucination. LSD at first was believed to be useful in the study of the mind and treatment of emotional illness.

Peyote: The peyote cactus grows wild in Mexico and Southern Texas. Mexican Indians used it for centuries for religious rites, medicine and to relieve hunger and fatigue.

How can hallucinogens affect your health?

These drugs may lead to an increased heartbeat, high blood pressure, increased respiration rates, headaches, flashbacks, coma, convulsions, and even death.

How can hallucinogens affect driving?

The driver can experience blurred vision and distortion of colors. This can result in the driver not being able to distinguish signs and signals. The driver will feel a loss of attention and concentration. He will experience slow thinking, impaired judgment and the unreal seeming unreal. The driver will not be able respond to emergencies on the road and will find it very difficult to control the motor vehicle.

What is a Stimulant?

It is a drug that causes an intense stimulation of the central nervous system.

Topic

What is Cocaine?

Cocaine is a white powder that comes from the leaves of the South American coca plants. Cocaine is either "snorted" through the nasal passages or injected intravenously.

Crack is manufactured by mixing cocaine with baking soda. It is dried into a solid mass. When smoked, it makes a cracking sound.

Both cocaine and crack are stimulants.

Street Names: Nose candy, big C, dust, snow, coke.

Amphetamines - Black beauties, pep pills, chalk, dexies, ups, ice, crank and speed.

Facts: Cocaine is a CSA 1 drug. In 2019, there were 601,000 persons aged 12 or older who had used cocaine for the first time within the past 12 months; this averages to approximately 1,600 initiates per day. In 2019, there were 601,000 persons aged 12 or older who had used cocaine for the first time within the past 12 months; this averages to approximately 1,600 initiates per day. The number of initiates of crack cocaine about 58,000 in 2019.

The history of Cocaine: Cocaine use is over 3,000 years old. The coca plant grows wild in the Andes Mountains of South America. The Indians chewed the coca leaf to create a surge of strength and energy that enabled them to work long hard hours. Pure cocaine was first isolated in the 1880's and used as a local anesthetic in eye surgery. It was also useful in surgery of nose and throat because of its ability to provide anesthesia as well as to constrict blood vessels and limit bleeding. In 1890 coca was used in French wine. In 1886 Coca-Cola contained cocaine in its syrup. The French recommend the use of cocaine to treat a variety of conditions including morphine addiction. In 1912 there were over 5,000 cocaine related fatalities in one year. In 1914 cocaine was banned in the U.S.

Topic

What are Amphetamines?

Amphetamines are a group of synthetic psychotherapeutic drugs called central nervous system (CNS) stimulants. Amphetamines increase energy and decrease appetite; they are used to treat narcolepsy and some forms of depression. They are relatively common. These medications are also available by prescription for children and teens that have Attention-Deficit Disorder.

Street names: Speed, crank, ice (hydrochloride), bennies, glass, crystal, crank, pep pills, and uppers.

Facts: Amphetamine is a CSA 2 drug: According to the 2019 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, "psychotherapeutics" includes the nonmedical use of any prescription-type pain relievers, tranquilizers, stimulants, or sedatives. Over-the-counter substances are not included. Nonmedical use of psychotherapeutics includes nonmedical use of any prescription-type pain relievers, tranquilizers, stimulants, or sedatives. Over-the-counter substances are not included. In 2019, there were approximately 2.0 million persons aged 12 or older who used psychotherapeutics nonmedically for the first time within the past year, which averages to about 5,500 initiates per day. The number of new nonmedical users of psychotherapeutics in 2019 was lower than the estimates for prior years from 2008 through 2018 (ranging from 2.3 million to 2.8 million). In 2019, the numbers of initiates were 1.5 million for pain relievers, 1.2 million for tranquilizers, 603,000 for stimulants, and 128,000 for sedatives The number of recent new users of methamphetamine among persons aged 12 or older was 144,000 in 2019. The average age of a first use among new methamphetamine users' was 18.9 years.

The history of Amphetamines: Amphetamines were first put to use in 1932 in Benzedrine inhalers to clear the bronchial passage. The drugs also relieved fatigue, increased energy levels, reduced need for sleep, and suppressed the appetite. Amphetamines were used in tablet form in the 1930s. During WWII, they were given to troops to fight fatigue. In the 1950's, the medical use of amphetamines was mainly as antidepressants and diet pills. About 12 billion pills were produced in 1970 (many through the black market). Almost all amphetamines on the street are manufactured illegally and contain methamphetamine, a powerfully addictive stimulant that dramatically affects the central nervous system.

How do cocaine and amphetamines affect your health?

They can cause heart attacks, strokes, respiratory failure, brain seizures and reduce the body's ability to fight infection.

Topic

What is Heroin?

Heroin is a semi-synthetic narcotic analgesic drug. Heroin is a drug derived from the dried "milk" of the opium poppy plant which contains the painkillers morphine and codeine.

Street Names: smack, horse, dope and junk.

Facts: Heroin is a CSA 1 drug. In 2019, there were 169,000 persons aged 12 or older who had used heroin for the first time within the past 12 months. The average age at first use among recent heroin initiates 2019 was 24.5 years. 855,000 persons had cocaine dependence or abuse. Approximately 453,000 reported past year heroin use and 213,000 reported past month heroin use.

History: The use of opium dates back about 5,000 years. Greeks and Romans used it, both recreationally and medicinally to treat various illnesses. In 1806, the primary active substance in opium was separated and called "morphine." It was 10 times more powerful than opium. Opium and morphine in the 1800's were legal and over - the- counter drugs used as relaxants, cough medicine, to stop tooth pain, and treat alcoholism. During the American Civil War, with the invention of the syringe, morphine was injected into the bloodstreams of the many wounded soldiers, causing their addiction after the war. In 1874, an English chemist synthesized heroin from morphine. In 1898, the Bayer Chemical Company of Germany used heroin in their tonics and medication. In 1956, the use of heroin was made illegal.

What are the health effects of heroin use?

Heroin can cause malnutrition, collapsed veins, meningitis and death. Addicts sharing needles are at high risk of contracting HIV/ AIDS and Hepatitis B & C.

How does heroin affect driving?

Heroin will cause disorientation and loss of coordination. The driver may not be able to handle routine traffic situations. The driver may become confused and make the wrong decision. Relaxation and drowsiness will set in. The driver will not be able to react to emergency situations and reaction time is slower.

Topic

What are Steroids?

Anabolic steroids are synthetic versions of the male hormone testosterone. They increase the body's synthesis of protein, allowing growth of skeletal muscle and increase of lean body mass.

Street Names: Juice, hormones, and roids.

Facts: A steroid is a CSA 3 Drug. In 2019 it is reported that five to 12 percent of male high school students and 1 percent of female students have used anabolic steroids by the time they are seniors.

Steroid users can subject themselves to at least 70 side effects. Anabolic steroids are banned by all major sports.

History: The use of steroids in athletics was made popular by the Soviet weight lifting team in the 1950's. The team set world records in lifting. The U.S. team doctor was told by his Soviet counterpart that the Soviet team was using a hormone called Testosterone. This steroid was then introduced to the U.S. athletes with great success. Anabolic steroids were used to improve performance and physical appearance.

What are the health effects of steroids?

Some effects are liver tumors, high blood pressure, infertility, severe acne, trembling, depression, heart attacks and extreme mood swings.

Electronic cigarettes: (e-cigarettes) is high among teens with 8.7 percent of 8th graders, 16.2 percent of 10th graders, and 17.1 percent of 12th graders using e-cigarettes in the past month. Only 14.2 percent of 12th graders view regular e-cigarette use as harmful. The nicotine in e-cigarettes is vaporized and inhaled (not smoked), however, the health impact of e-cigarette use is not yet clear, nor is it known if use of e-cigarettes increases the likelihood of transitioning to conventional cigarettes or other tobacco products. While many of these student e-cigarette users have a history of cigarette and/or smokeless tobacco exposure, approximately 2.9% of 8th graders, 4.5% of 10th graders and 3.8% of 12th graders report past month use of e-cigarettes while denying ever using tobacco cigarettes or smokeless tobacco.

Electronic cigarettes first developed in China and were introduced to the U.S. market in 2007, marketed as safer than regular cigarettes, deliver a cocktail of toxic chemicals including carcinogens into the lungs, new studies show. Using e-cigarettes may even make bacterial infections resistant to antibiotics, according to one study. E-cigarettes deliver high levels of nanoparticles, the researchers found, which can trigger inflammation and have been linked to asthma, stroke, heart disease, and diabetes. Electronic cigarettes contain liquid nicotine is extracted from tobacco, but unlike tobacco leaves, liquid nicotine can be lethal. It can cause harm when it's inhaled, but it can also be harmful when ingested or absorbed through your skin. Only a small dose is dangerous - less than one tablespoon of many of the e-liquids on the market is enough to kill an adult, and as little as a teaspoon could kill a child.

Topic

What is Marijuana?

Cannabis sativa is the plant or weed from which marijuana is extracted. The potency of the marijuana plant is related to both the amount and quality of resin it produces. The resin is a sticky sap - a substance that contains THC. THC is the psychoactive ingredient that makes you "high". The THC depends on climate, nutrition, and genetics of the plant. THC can vary from 0 to 20%.

Street Names: Mary Jane, Weed, Bud and Grass.

Facts: Marijuana is a CSA 1 drug. Marijuana is the most widely used illicit drug in the United States. In 2019, there were 2.4 million persons aged 12 or older who had used marijuana for the first time within the past 12 months; this averages to about 6,600 new users each day. In 2019, among persons aged 12 or older, an estimated 1.4 million first-time past year marijuana users initiated prior to the age of 18. This estimate was similar to the corresponding estimate in 2017. The estimated 1.4 million persons in 2019 who initiated prior to the age of 18 represented the majority (56.6 percent) of the 2.4 million recent marijuana initiates. Among all youths aged 12 to 17, an estimated 4.8 percent had used marijuana for the first time within the past year in 2019. In 2019, the average age at first marijuana use was 18.0 years.

In 2019, more high school seniors regularly used marijuana than cigarettes as 22.7% smoked pot in the last month, compared to 16.3% who smoked cigarettes. 60% of seniors don't see regular marijuana use as harmful, but THC (the active ingredient in the drug that causes addiction) is nearly 5 times stronger than it was 20 years ago. About 40% of teenagers try marijuana before their senior year of high school. Marijuana that is used today is seven times more potent than pot of the 1960s.

History: About 6,000 years ago the people of India and Asia used the cannabis plant to make rope and hemp for clothing. In the 19th century marijuana was used in the treatment of insomnia, to improve appetite and for menstrual cramps. Prior to the Marijuana Tax Act of 1937, there were nearly 3 dozen medicines that contained marijuana. Today, there is limited use of marijuana in the treatment of nausea in chemotherapy patients and in treating glaucoma.

What are the health effects of marijuana?

Marijuana has twice the tar of cigarette tobacco. This tar is linked to lung cancer. Marijuana can also cause bronchitis and emphysema.

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What is an Inhalant?

An Inhalant is a substance that gives off fumes and is inhaled to give the user a sudden "high." Inhalants are chemical vapors that are found in many consumer products.

Street Names: Amy nitrite - (poppers and snappers).

Inhalants are found in:

Solvents: paint thinners, glues, felt-tip markers and white-out.

Gases: whipping cream aerosols, propane and Freon gases, aerosol hair and deodorant sprays, fluorocarbons and butane-type gases.

Facts: In 2019, there were 563,000 persons aged 12 or older who had used inhalants for the first time within the past 12 months, which was similar to the 2018 estimate of 584,000, but was lower than the numbers in 2008 to 2017 (ranging from 719,000 to 877,000). An estimated 46.8 percent of past year initiates of inhalants in 2019 were younger than age 18 when they first used. The average age at first time users was 19.2 years.

History: Inhaling vapors to alter one's state of mind dates back to the times of ancient Greeks. In 1840 nitrous oxide (laughing gas) was demonstrated to the general public. Experience with this early agent led to the use of inhalants as anesthetics. In 1849 nitrous oxide and chloroform were used as dental and surgical anesthetics. In America, gasoline sniffing became popular among teenagers in the 1950's. Glue sniffing became widespread in California in the 1960's.

What are the health effects of inhalants?

Inhalants cause brain damage, bone marrow damage, liver and kidney damage, heart failure and death (from suffocation displacing the oxygen in the lungs), hearing loss and limb spasms.

How does the use of inhalants affect driving?

Inhalants affect driving by causing violent behavior and mood swings.

The driver may not be able to control emotions in certain traffic situations. An aggressive driver can become enraged over the slightest traffic encounter. This can lead to aggressive driving. Hallucinations occur and the driver may not realize what is actually happening around the vehicle. The driver can experience numbness in hands and feet, loss of muscle control, slurred speech, and drowsiness while driving a motor vehicle.

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What are Designer Drugs?

Designer drugs are CSA 2.

A designer drug is a chemical compound that is similar in structure and effect to a controlled psychoactive drug, but differs very slightly in structure. These drugs can be several hundred times more powerful than the drug they are intended to copy. Street Names: MDMA (Ecstasy), GHB (Georgia Home Boy), and Ketamine (Special K) are among the drugs used by teens and young adults, especially at nightclubs. Use of designer drugs labeled as "bath salts" has been associated with extreme anxiety, extreme paranoia, delusional thinking, and visual and auditory hallucinations, leading to violent outbursts, self-mutilation, and suicidal thoughts; increased blood pressure and heart rate; chest pains so severe that people fear they are dying; and jerky muscle movements. Some authorities believe the patients they have seen will suffer long-term, if not permanent, effects due to use of designer drugs labeled as "bath salts."

What is Synthetic Marijuana: Common Street Names are K2, Spice, Incense, Fake Weed, Yucatan Fire, Genie, Skunk, Moon Rocks, Zohai, Black Mamba.

Synthetic marijuana is a designer drug in which herbs, incense or other leafy materials are sprayed with lab-synthesized liquid chemicals to mimic the effect of THC, the psychoactive ingredient in the naturally grown marijuana plant (cannabis sativa). It was frequently marketed as an incense in colorful three ounce pouches and labeled not for human consumption. Synthetic marijuana is 100 times more potent than the average THC found in marijuana.

Facts: Synthetic marijuana resulted in over 11,000 cases of emergency room visits. Complications due to synthetic pot use include high blood pressure, nausea, vomiting, anxiety, agitation and seizures. Synthetic marijuana abusers who have been taken to Poison Control Centers report symptoms that include rapid heart rate, vomiting, agitation, profuse sweating, confusion, and hallucinations Spice/K2 can also raise blood pressure and cause reduced blood supply to the heart (myocardial ischemia), and in a few cases it has been associated with heart attacks.

Bath salts. So-called "bath salts" are among the latest designer drugs to enter the scene. Questions on the use of these powerful and dangerous stimulant drugs have been included since the 2012 survey; that year the annual prevalence rates (the percent who reported any use in the prior 12 months) were 0.8 percent, 0.6 percent and 1.3 percent for grades 8, 10 and 12, respectively. This year, the rates have remained very low at 1 percent, 0.9 percent and 0.9 percent.

History: MDMA was patented in 1913 by the German chemical company Merck, to be used as a diet pill. It is said that the US Army tested MDMA in 1953 as a possible truth serum. A French researcher first synthesized GHB in the 1960's to explore the effects on the brain. In the 1970's Alexander Shulgin, a chemist at Dow Chemical was the first reported person to use MDMA as a possible therapeutic drug. It was used for the treatment of insomnia and relief of pain. In the 1980's GHB was an over-the-counter drug sold in health food stores as a dieting supplement for body builders. In 1962, American pharmacist Calvin Stevens first synthesized Ketamine in Parke-Davis Lab to replace PCP as an anesthetic. Ketamine was used in the 1960's in Vietnam as an anesthetic. Ketamine was also used for pediatric burns, in dentistry, and as a tranquilizer for horses.

What are the health effects of designer drugs?

Designer drugs can cause psychosis, paralysis, nausea, increased blood pressure, brain damage, seizures and sudden death.

How do designer drugs affect driving?

Designer drugs can affect your driving ability. These drugs can cause blurred vision. The driver can miss a sign, signal, or another vehicle in its path of travel. With hallucinations, the driver cannot justify a real driving condition from a condition that is not real. The driver may feel apprehensive and have a slow reaction time. Decisions in handling certain traffic conditions are difficult. Designer drugs affect perception. Anxiety, depression, paranoia, confusion and violent behavior may set in. Each will alter the ability to drive a motor vehicle.

Synergistic effects of the combination of alcohol and other drugs. Synergism is the combined effects of two drugs taken together that produce an effect much greater than if the drugs were taken singularly. This simply means that one-plus-one doesn't always equal two. The combination of drugs increases the risk of a driving fatality. For example, a combination of heroin and alcohol: Heroin and alcohol both suppress breathing. Another example is Marijuana: Using alcohol with marijuana can decrease motor control and mental concentration and greatly impair your ability to drive. Because marijuana suppresses the gag reflex, you may not be able to throw up alcohol when your body needs to. Alcohol with a prescribed drug or an over-the-counter drug may affect your liver's ability to metabolize the medication and can decrease the medication's effectiveness .The effect of alcohol taken with another depressant can increase potency. This could lead to death due to overdose as well as poisoning. Slow reaction time, tiredness, loss of coordination, reduced judgment; confused thinking and impaired judgment will affect your driving ability. Mixing alcohol with cocaine will mask the effect of the alcohol. You may think that you're able to drive, but you may be too impaired to drive in a safe manner. Your confidence is enhanced, but responsiveness and judgment is decreased. Overdosing is very common due to the unpredictable interaction between alcohol and drugs.

Equivalency of drinks. One 12 oz. beer, one 5 oz. wine or one 1.5 shot of 80 proof whiskey. You need to be especially careful with multi-shot specialty drinks like Long Island Iced Tea and higher proof drinks containing more alcohol.

Which of the following contains the most alcohol?

Is it beer, wine, wine coolers or liquor? A standard drink contains 12 grams of pure alcohol. This is equal to one 12- ounce beer or wine cooler, one 5-ounce glass of wine or 1.5 ounces of 80-proof distilled spirits. All of these drinks contain the same amount of alcohol. Carbonated drinks, watered-down drinks and fruit drinks containing a single shot of alcohol are still equivalent to one drink, even if the taste is diluted. However, specialty drinks such as Long Island Iced Tea and Rum Runners contain multiple shots of alcohol (sometimes 3 or 4 different alcoholic beverages). Therefore, one drink may be equivalent to three drinks. Non-alcoholic beer has trace amounts of alcohol below the 3.2% level. This amount of alcohol could be enough to impair the driver of a motor vehicle if done excessively. Remember, a 12 oz. can of beer, will increase your BAL the same as an 80 proof shot of straight liquor.

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The Physiological Aspects of Use, Abuse, Dependence and Addiction

The progression towards dependence and addiction begins as a craving for alcohol at a social event or to compensate for problems in one's life. Often, the alcohol usage masks a person's problems and leads to an increased dependency on alcohol for a false sense of stability. Addicts may feel that they cannot deal with problems without the use of alcohol or other drugs, and usage becomes more frequent. Dependence occurs in consistently heavy drinkers. The human body slowly builds a tolerance to alcohol. The alcoholic will need to increase the amount of alcohol to achieve impairment or the effects he/she desires. Alcoholics may experience withdrawal symptoms if they stop drinking. Withdrawal symptoms can be tremors (the "shakes"), convulsions and sometimes death. A long-term effect of heavy alcohol use includes loss of appetite, vitamin deficiencies, stomach ailments, skin problems, sexual impotence, liver damage, heart and central nervous system damage, and memory loss.

Many addicts have a physiological link to dopamine. Dopamine is the neurotransmitter involved in every pathway of drug addiction. As dopamine is utilized, it gives way to other neurotransmitters. The neurotransmitters reflect the personality that is displayed after one reaches a "high". Soon a person becomes dependent on the alcohol and the situation has progressed from casual use to an addiction. Children raised by addict parents have a greater likelihood of becoming addicted than children raised by non-addict parents.

Amphetamines

Amphetamines stimulate the production of the hormones responsible for the bodies "fight or flight" responses, naturally only triggered in a crisis. During amphetamine use, blood vessels constrict, resulting in an increase in blood pressure, a racing heart rate or irregular heartbeats .Frequent use can lead to cardiac problems including damage to the heart walls and heart attacks.

Muscle tension caused by amphetamine use is often expressed in jaw clenching and teeth grinding, which can result in severe damage to the teeth and gums. Amphetamines are also highly effective at suppressing appetite; some amphetamine addicted individuals can go for days without eating, causing rapid weight loss. The lack of food can result in stomach pain, as well as long-term digestive issues. Both dental and digestive problems are complicated by extreme dehydration experienced during amphetamine use.

Due to the insomniac effects of amphetamines, users can stay awake for days; finding themselves extremely tired and fatigued after use. This leads many addicted individuals to take more amphetamines rather than coming down-a practice known as to "topping up"-continuing the high for another 4 to 8 hours. In some cases, amphetamine dependent individuals will keep using for week-long binges.

Hallucinogens

A person on LSD may experience physiological effects, including raised blood pressure and heart rate, dizziness, loss of appetite, dry mouth, sweating and tremors; but the drug's major effects are emotional and sensory. The user's emotions may shift rapidly from fear to euphoria, with transitions so rapid that the user may feel several things simultaneously, including panic and extreme terror. LSD users quickly develop a high degree of tolerance for the drug's effects; larger doses become needed as usage increases.

Herion

Physical dependence develops with higher doses of the drug. With physical dependence, the body adapts to the presence of the drug and withdrawal symptoms occur if use is reduced abruptly. At some point during continuous heroin use, a person can become addicted to the drug. Sometimes addicted individuals will endure many of the withdrawal symptoms to reduce their tolerance for the drug so that they can again experience the rush.

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Inhalants

The effects of inhalant abuse resemble those of alcohol impairment. When these chemical vapors are inhaled, the body becomes starved of oxygen, forcing the heart to beat more rapidly in order to increase blood flow to the brain. The high begins after a few seconds and can include dizziness, distortion in perceptions of time and space, and stimulant effects. This high lasts just a few minutes; however, users will often repeatedly use in order to sustain the high. After the initial effects of inhalant use begin to wear off, the senses become depressed and a sense of lethargy may arise as the user's body attempts to restore proper blood flow to the brain. Many users experience headaches, nausea or vomiting, slurred speech, loss of motor coordination, and wheezing.

MDMA

The physical effects of usual doses of MDMA usually begin with a light sickness feeling, thirst, jaw clenching, teeth grinding, rapid eye movements, sweating, or nausea. Others report feelings of profound physical relaxation. After 30 minutes the euphoria occurs. Typical sought-after psychological effects include feeling "at peace" or experiencing a generalized "happy" feeling, and emotional closeness to oneself and others. MDMA can significantly enhance and distort the senses of touch, vision (contours of things and persons fade and are colored), taste, and smell. But for others (or even the same person at different times) the hallucinations can be scary and produce feelings of anxiety. Under moderate doses, the user seldom loses complete control of the situation.

At higher doses, MDMA can produce physical effects resembling amphetamine use (and fast or pounding heartbeat, sweating, dizziness, restlessness). MDMA overdose can also occur - the symptoms can include high blood pressure, faintness, panic attacks, and in severe cases, a loss of consciousness, and seizures.

The warnings below apply to legal prescription medicines as well as over the counter medications. Be sure to check the legal prescription medicines as well as over the counter medications or consult with your doctor for the affect of these drugs on the driving task.

What is an over-the-counter drug?

An over-the-counter drug is a drug that can be purchased without a prescription.

How can OTC drugs affect driving?

Many OTC drugs contain alcohol, sometimes as high as 40 percent. Alcohol can be found in many cough and cold medicines such as Dimetane. A very common OTC drug is Dramamine. It is used to prevent motion sickness or nausea.

These OTC drugs can affect your ability to drive a motor vehicle in a safe manner. OTC medications can affect your driving. They can cause drowsiness, slower reaction times, decreased attention and coordination. Always check warnings on legal prescription medicines as well as over the counter medications or consult with your doctor or pharmacy for the effect of these drugs.

What is a Prescription Drug?

A prescription drug is a controlled substance that can only be prescribed by a physician. It is ordered through a pharmacist. Many prescription drugs have side effects; some must be taken at specific times, with food or before meals.

How can Prescription Drug affect driving?

Prescription Drug acting on the brain can impair one's motor skills, reaction time, and judgment. Antihistamines (often used in flu and hay fever remedies) and tranquillizers (used to treat anxiety, depression and sleeping disorders) may significantly affect reaction times and cause drowsiness.

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Effective Ways to Deal With Stress, Fatigue, Emotional Stress and Appropriate Positive Driver Attitude

What is aggressive driving?

For example: You just had an argument with the person you love, you leave and enter your motor vehicle, and you're still infuriated. Angrily, you slam the door; turn the key and burn rubber. Your hostilities are taken out on your vehicle. This is the first sign of aggressive driving. Now you are on the road angered and protected by a 3000 lb. vehicle. If someone should cut you off, or if you're being tailgated, or there is traffic congestion, or a slow moving vehicle is blocking you, you might be ready to explode! This can lead to aggressive driving and cause you to take your hostilities out on the other drivers!

Stress that can affect your everyday driving: As a driver, you must learn to deal with everyday stresses that can affect your driving skills. Rush-hour traffic, collisions, running late for work, money and family problems, stress on the job, and countless other problems can affect your ability to drive a vehicle in a safe manner. In order to reduce stress when driving, try to avoid driving when upset. Always know your routes and exits before going on a trip. Avoid rush hour traffic. Keep your vehicle properly maintained. Avoid the path of an aggressive driver. If you encounter a problem on the road, think before you take any action. Count to ten or listen to soft music to calm yourself down. Family or money problems can cause a lack of concentration and add to hostility on the road. Before a problem escalates to the point where it affects your driving ability, speak to a friend or seek professional help when necessary. Always be a courteous driver and remember that the best of drivers sometimes make mistakes.

Dealing with the stress: The stress of heavy traffic, an argument with your friend, a major illness, school, loss of a job, or the death of a friend are all forms of stress that can affect you. To help relieve stress, speak up. Not being able to talk about your needs and concerns creates stress and can make negative feelings worse. Sometimes stress is just too much to handle alone. Talking to a friend or family member may help, but you may also want to see a school counselor or a clergy.

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How do you deal with fatigue?

Never drive when tired! A person can become drowsy within a short period of time. Teenagers, driving late at night, especially between the hours of eleven p.m. and two a.m. are susceptible to falling asleep behind the wheel. Fatigue will increase reaction time. Fatigue will reduce your concentration and judgment. The fatigued driver will not be able to react to emergency situations. Taking a nap is only a temporary solution to the problem. Sleep is the only possible answer. To help avoid fatigue, get plenty of rest before beginning a trip; avoid eating heavy foods and drinking alcohol. Stop periodically to rest and stretch. Keep the vehicle cool and comfortable, listen to the radio, drive a reasonable distance and recognize when you are over-tired. If you start yawning or have difficulty keeping your eyes open, it's time to stop driving. Do not push ("I only have a few more miles to go"). Because once you go, you go - and you'll be out cold.

Dealing with emotional distress: Depression is a psychiatric disorder characterized by an inability to concentrate, insomnia, loss of appetite, feelings of extreme sadness, guilt, helplessness and hopelessness, and thoughts of death. Depression symptoms are characterized not only by negative thoughts, moods, and behaviors, but also by specific changes in bodily functions. Examples: Eating, sleeping, and sexual activity may be disturbed. It can be very difficult to overcome emotional distress and, if the distress has been very traumatic, it may be helpful to talk over your feelings with a doctor who may be able to prescribe some kind of drug therapy or refer you to see a psychologist.

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Death of an Innocent

I went to a party, Mom, I remember what you said.

You told me not to drink, Mom, so I drank soda instead.

I felt proud inside, Mom, the way you said I would.

I didn't drink and drive, Mom, even though the others said I should.

I know I did the right thing, Mom. I know you are always right.

Now the party is finally ending, Mom, as everyone is driving out of sight.

As I got into my car, Mom, I knew I'd get home in one piece.

Because of the way you raised me, Mom, so responsible and sweet.

I started to drive away, Mom, but as I pulled into the road,

The other car didn't see me, Mom, and hit me like a load.

As I lay there on the pavement, Mom, I hear the policeman say,

The other guy is drunk, Mom, and now I'm the one who will pay.

I'm lying here dying, Mom, I wish you'd get here soon.

How could this happen to me, Mom? My life just burst like a balloon.

There is blood all around me, Mom, and most of it is mine.

I hear the medic say, Mom, I'll die in a short time.

I just wanted to tell you, Mom, I swear I didn't drink.

It was the others, Mom, The others didn't think.

He was probably at the same party as I.

The only difference is, Mom, he drank and I will die.

Why do people drink, Mom? It can ruin your whole life.

I'm feeling sharp pains now. Pains just like a knife.

The guy who hit me is walking, Mom, and I don't think it's fair.

I'm lying here dying, Mom, and all he can do is stare.

Tell my brother not to cry, Mom, Tell, daddy to be brave.

And when I go to heaven, Mom, put "Daddy's Girl" on my grave.

Someone should have told him, Mom, not to drink and drive.

If only they had told him, Mom, I would still be alive.

My breath is getting shorter, Mom, I'm becoming very scared.

Please don't cry for me, Mom, when I needed you, you were always there.

I have one last question, Mom, before I say goodbye.

I didn't drink and drive, Mom, so why am I the one to die?

1. An over-the-counter drug can be purchased without a prescription and many over-the-counter drugs contain alcohol.

2. Antihistamines with make the driver drowsy.

3. A prescription drug is a controlled substance.

4. An over-the-counter drug can contain alcohol as high as 40%.

5 Tranquilizers are depressants that slow down the central nervous system.

6. Pain relievers can cause slower reaction time when driving.

7. CSA 1 drug: It has the highest potential for abuse and has no recognized legitimate medical use.

8. Peyote, cannabis, heroin and cocaine are CSA 1 drugs.

9. Cocaine will stay in your system 2 to 4 days.

10. Cocaine will stay in your system 2 to 4 days.

11. Cocaine is metabolized in the liver.

12. A marijuana plant contains over 400 different chemicals.

13. The liver metabolizes most of the THC in marijuana.

14. The hippocampus is the part of the brain that processes memory.

15. Many over-the-counter drugs contain alcohol.

16. Amphetamines increase energy and decrease appetite.

17. Heroin is a semi-synthetic narcotic analgesic drug.

18. Heroin is a drug derived from the dried "milk" of the opium poppy plant.

19. Inhalants affect driving by causing violent behavior and mood swings.

20. Inhalants are found in paint thinners and glues.

21. Hallucinogens are drugs that distort the perception of objective reality.

22. Hallucinogens can cause increased heartbeat and high blood pressure.

23. PCP was used by veterinarians as a medicine and as a powerful tranquilizer.

24. Designer drugs can cause brain damage, seizures and sudden death.

25. Designer drugs are several hundred times more powerful than the drug they are intended to copy.

26. Designer drug MDMA (ecstasy) was first used in 1913 as a diet pill.

27. Anabolic steroids are synthetic versions of the male hormone testosterone. They increase the body's synthesis of protein, allowing growth of skeletal muscle and increase of lean body mass.

28. Anabolic steroids cause liver tumors, high blood pressure, infertility, severe acne, trembling, depression, heart attacks and extreme mood swings.

29. Steroids affect your driving, the driver can experience aggression and mood swings.

30. Anabolic steroids are banned by major sports.

What are the psychological aspects of alcohol?

Alcoholism is an insidious illness that sneaks up on a person. People deny they have a drinking problem because they believe that alcoholics live in the "gutter." The addictive aspect of alcohol and drugs is strongly attached to the psychological component. Studies indicate that of the four stages of alcoholism (physical dependence, psychological dependence, tolerance and withdrawal), psychological dependence is the most difficult to overcome.

Drugs and alcohol become a problem when they impair our capacity to successfully function as social beings or employees. It is not unusual for drug and/or alcohol abuse to spawn physiological problems which can, in turn, create deeper psychological pain than was present at the outset of the cycle. Some people are able to use alcohol casually, but these people can easily become addicted. An addicted person will feel the necessity to drink every day, and this can have a harmful effect on the person's social relationships and interactions. Psychological problems may lead to family conflict, arrest, job instability, injuries related to violence or collisions, depression and anxiety.

Learn How to Cope with an Alcohol Problem

Learn to face your problems. If you are aware of your problems, seek professional help if necessary. Early screening and intervention by a family physician will be helpful. Never look for the easy way out; it never works!

There are many reasons why a person makes the decision to use alcohol. Many of us can be influenced by peers to join in the fun and become part of the group. Some of us do not want to drink but are too embarrassed to say "no". The first sip of alcohol is usually an unpleasant taste to a non-drinker, and this should tell the person that his/her body truly does not enjoy drinking. People drink to reduce pain, stress, boredom, or other problems. Alcohol is never a solution.

MDMA: Ecstasy is addictive because it causes an intense feeling of euphoria. But like other drugs, Ecstasy acts like a poison on the body. It burns out neuro-transmitters and can cause depression. Abuse of the drug can lead to severe anxiety, paranoia and sometimes even permanent brain damage.

Psychologically, it may cause anxiety, panic attacks, disorientation, depression, delusions, mood swings, lapses in memory and insomnia. Medically, it may cause acute renal (kidney) failure, liver damage, convulsions and seizures, coma, stroke, hyperthermia, cerebral edema, and incontinence.

Inhalants: Psychological and mental dangers result directly from damage to the brain and can cause severe mental health conditions. The overall impact of inhalants upon the body can be devastating. Addiction to inhalants has a profound influence upon the health of major systems of the body respiratory, blood, central nervous system and brain function. Inhalant abuse can seriously impair every system in the body.

Heroin: Long-term use of heroin can cause the user to become almost immune to its effects, so that they need to take more of the drug to achieve the same effect. Some of the psychological effects of withdrawal - a sense of discomfort and loss of wellbeing - can take months to settle and result in high relapse rates from detoxification.

Amphetamine: Long-term Amphetamine Dependence may lead to significant weight loss, anemia, and poor health due to a lack of personal hygiene. In severe cases skin-picking can develop. This leads to severe infections. Skin-picking may occur because amphetamine use causes dry skin and itchiness. It may also result from amphetamine-induced psychosis. This occurs when a person hallucinates that there are bugs crawling just below the surface of the skin. Psychological dependency arises from the desire to continue and heighten the euphoric effects of the drug. During an amphetamine euphoria, the individual feels an enlargement of physical, mental, and sexual powers along with the absence of the urge to eat or sleep.

Hallucinogen: Hallucinogens tend to be used on an irregular basis only so addiction doesn't occur but a tolerance can build up if the drug is used on a regular basis, These drugs have a strong psychological effect which often involves a change in the brain's chemistry and structure which in turn results in dependence. Addicts also find that they experience some rather unpleasant withdrawal symptoms if they stop which results in their continuing to take these drugs.

Cost of Addictions, Alienation of Friends and Family and Loss of Job

In 2019, over 10,142 people were killed in alcohol-impaired driving crashes, accounting for nearly one-third (31%) of all traffic-related deaths in the United States. In Florida in 2019 there were over 32,177 DUI arrest. Over 1.28 million drivers were arrested in 2019 for driving under the influence of alcohol or narcotics. This is an arrest rate of 1 for every 165 licensed drivers in the United States According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, U.S. motor vehicle crashes in 2019 cost almost $1 trillion in loss of productivity and loss of life. Economic costs of alcohol-related crashes are estimated to be $59 billion yearly. An additional $70.5 billion is the loss in quality of life due to these crashes. Law enforcement spends millions of taxpayer dollars to enforce DUI regulations. Family and friends can be torn apart as a result of the actions of an impaired driver. A loved one can be killed, injured or maimed. The loss of a family provider can ruin a family for life. The action of one impaired driver can destroy the lives of many in a matter of seconds. There is a personal economic cost to medical treatment for addictions. Legal fees resulting from a DUI conviction can be enormous.

Learn how to cope with an alcohol problem:

Learn to face your problems. If you are aware of your problems and if necessary seek professional help. Early screening and intervention by a family physician can be helpful. Never look for the easy way out; it never works!

Personal Economic Costs and Legal Problems

What are the personal economic costs and legal problems caused by alcohol abuse?

Alcohol use lessens both your inhibitions and willpower. You may make bad choices that are detrimental to your family, your health and welfare. Alcohol is only a temporary escape, and its use will often only make problems worse. Alcohol consumption can lead to loss of job productivity and absenteeism, which can result in loss of a job. Alcohol can result in legal problems. Alcohol problems can conclude in divorce or spousal abuse, which can result in jail time. This effect of alcohol is especially dangerous when dealing with depression.

Loss of judgment - Many people who are impaired don't think they are impaired. What is an impaired driver?

A person is considered impaired if he/she is driving or in actual physical control of a vehicle and under the influence of an alcoholic beverage, chemical substance or controlled substance to the extent his/her normal faculties are impaired. "Normal faculties" means those faculties of a person such as the ability to see, hear, walk, talk, make judgments and, in general, to normally perform the many mental and physical acts of our daily lives. A person will be considered impaired if driving with a Blood Alcohol Level (BAL) of 0.08 or above. A person who is driving a vehicle could be arrested and convicted of DUI at any BAL below 0.08 if your normal abilities to operate a motor vehicle are impaired. Younger people generally have a lower tolerance for alcohol than adults.

Many people don't realize that the presumptive limit is 0.08. It only takes a few drinks to reach a 0.08 level. Alcohol will induce a loss of judgment. Alcohol affects the driver's general perception; the driver is less likely to realistically recognize the dangers of drinking and driving. With loss of judgment, a driver's perception and the driver's abilities are overestimated. They may believe they can do things better than when sober. Without thinking rationally, teens sometimes use drinking and driving as a proof of adulthood. They may say, "I only live 2 minutes away, why call a cab?" The bottom line is that most people don't realize the dangers of driving impaired. There are still a lot of people who simply are unaware of its serious consequences.

Alcohol as a Gateway Drug

Alcohol is known as a "gateway drug". The use of alcohol often leads to the usage of harder drugs. People who begin drinking, especially at a young age, often move on to other illegal substances due to peer pressure and dependency issues. Personal problems start with the influence of alcohol and other drug use. Alcohol and drug use are extremely negative ways of coping with your problems. They can destroy your family and friends, cause health problems, poor grades, arrests, and even death. There are many alternative coping strategies to deal with problems rather than using alcohol and other drugs as escape mechanisms.

Positive versus Negative Coping Skills

(The choice to use alcohol in the first place; the compounding of problems with the use of alcohol and other drugs.

Depressed person using alcohol and other drugs as an escape mechanism, only making the problems worse).

Negative Coping Skills: We may act violently, lash out at others, or have angry outbursts when drinking. We may sometime over-eat or under-eat. Drinking alcohol can lead to excessive sleep or unhealthy dwelling on the past (regrets, failures, could-haves, should-haves). Other negative coping skills may include socializing with non-sober and/or negative friends, withdrawal from support and/or isolation, or engaging in negative self-talk or self-pity.

Developing positive coping skills can help bring balance to your life. Address the issues which may cause you to seek escape or relief by using alcohol. Set positive goals and make a plan to reach those goals. Simplify personal situations at work or at home and communicate with your family and friends openly and honestly. Think positively and stay away from negative people. Talk to a trusted friend, family member, and/or religious counselor about anything that may be troubling you. Express your anger; cry if you feel like it (it can relieve tension). Spend time alone, take up a hobby, listen to music, eat healthy, exercise, set clear goals, keep busy, volunteer or write a journal. Attend a support group to help you cope with your problems (12-step/ support group meetings). All of these positive coping skills will help in the road to recovery.

1. Alcohol is known as a "gateway drug".

2. Alcohol is a drug.

3. Alcohol use lessens both your inhibitions and willpower.

4. A person will be considered impaired if driving with a BAL level of 0.08 or above.

5. Alcohol is a depressant.

6. Alcohol will induce a loss of judgment.

7. Many people don't realize that the presumptive limit is 0.08.

8. An example of a positive coping skill is to express your anger; cry if you feel like it.

9. Psychological dependence is the most difficult to overcome.

10. Alcohol and drugs are extremely negative ways of coping with your problems.

Societal and Economic Costs of Alcohol and Drug Abuse

Quantified measures of the cost of alcohol and drugs abuse in the operation of a motor vehicle (number of alcohol-related crashes, injuries and deaths, dollar costs for medical, property damage, loss of productivity and insurance).

How many Americans died in the U.S. in traffic-related collisions in the last 10 years?

More than 300,000 died. In 2019, an estimated 2.74 million people were injured in motor vehicle traffic crashes. NHTSA says that 36,096 people died in motor vehicle crashes in 2019. In 2019 there were over 5,687,000 police-reported motor vehicle traffic crashes. A motor vehicle death occurred on average every 16 minutes and an injury every 14 seconds in 2019. An average of 90 people died each day in motor vehicle crashes. In 2019, there were over 10,142 fatalities in crashes involving a driver with a BAC of .08 or higher, accounting for 31 percent of total traffic fatalities for the year an average of one alcohol-impaired driving fatality every 51 minutes . 31 percent of total traffic fatalities are alcohol-related. Alcohol impairment among drivers in fatal crashes was four times higher at night. Most fatal crashes occur on weekends. 21 to 24 year olds have the highest percentage of drivers in fatal crashes with a BAL levels of .08 or higher. 1.4 million drivers were arrested for DUI or drugs while driving. Every day, nearly 30 people in the United States die in motor vehicle crashes that involve an alcohol-impaired driver. More than 3 people under the age of 21 die each day in alcohol-impaired driving crashes.

Costs for medical, property damage, loss of productivity and insurance: According to DUI records in the state of Florida, average costs are almost $100,000 for each person injured in an alcohol related crash that survived; average costs for fatalities in the state of Florida alone was $3.4 million. Costs factored include items such as insurance payments and medical bills for injured parties.

Most people would assume that it's the medical bills that make up most of the cost in fatal accidents, but actually, almost all of that cost is work-loss related as the victim's family and friends deal with insurance companies and struggle with their loss. The National Safety Council estimates that just one traffic fatality will ultimately cost $1,410,000 in lost productivity, administrative costs, property damage, and unrecoverable expenses. The overall cost of $4,360,000 is insurance increases. Crashes caused by drivers under the influence of alcohol accounted for 18 percent of the total economic loss due to motor vehicle crashes and cost the nation $49 billion, an average cost of $158 for every person in the U.S. Including lost quality of life, these crashes were responsible for $199 billion or 23 percent of the overall societal harm caused by motor vehicle crashes. Over 90 percent of these costs occurred in crashes involving a drunk driver with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .08 or higher.

What are the facts on young drivers?

A sixteen year old person causes more collisions per mile than any other group. 44% of young drivers will be involved in a crash before the age of 17. The #1 killer of 16 to 24 year olds is an auto crash! Teen driver errors are the major factor in these auto crashes (82%). In 2019, there were over 1,875 young drivers (15 to 20 years old) who died in motor vehicle crashes and 184,000 young drivers were injured in motor vehicle crashes in 2019. In 2019, there were over 4,283 young drivers involved in fatal crashes. Young people ages 15-24 represent only 14% of the U.S. population. However, they account for 30% ($19 billion) of the total costs of motor vehicle injuries among males and 28% ($7 billion) of the total costs of motor vehicle injuries among females. In 2019, 9 percent of all drivers involved in fatal crashes were 15 to 20 year olds and 13 percent of all drivers involved in police-reported crashes were young drivers. Total drivers involved in police-reported crashes increased by 5 percent to 9,882,000 in 2019 from 9,390,000 in 2018. Young drivers involved in police-reported crashes increased 2 percent for the same period from 1,229,000 to 1,258,000. August has the highest number of teenage crash deaths of any month.

The Risk to Sober Drivers from Drivers Who are on the Road and Have Been Drinking

After drinking, the brain works inefficiently, taking longer to receive messages from the eye; processing information becomes more difficult and instructions to the muscles are delayed. Alcohol can slow down reaction time by 10 to 30 percent. It also reduces ability to perform two or more tasks at the same time. Alcohol reduces the ability to see distant objects and night vision can be reduced by 25 percent. Blurred and double vision can also occur. Ability to perceive what is happening at the roadside is weakened. Loss of peripheral vision can be crucial. Alcohol may also create a sense of overconfidence, with the result that people are prepared to take greater risks.

A driver that is impaired may do the following:

1. Straddling center lane or lane marker and almost striking an object or vehicle.
2. Taking extremely wide turns or driving the wrong way.
3. Weaving from one side of the road to the other.
4. Driving on the wrong side of the road or on the shoulder.
5. Driving at very slow speed - at least 10 mph below the limit.
6. Following another car too closely.
7. Narrowly missing another car or object by passing too closely.
8. Braking erratically.
9. Driving without headlights.
10. Signaling inconsistently with what they are doing.
11. Stopping inappropriately in places such as at green lights and crosswalks with no pedestrians, etc. Each maneuver is a danger to the sober driver as well as the driver who has been drinking.

How the Impaired Drivers Actions Affect Other People. Courts, Law Enforcement, Family, Friends, etc.

In 2019, over 10,142 people were killed in alcohol-impaired driving crashes. In Florida there were 647 people killed in DUI collisions. Over 1.28 million drivers were arrested in 2019 for driving under the influence of alcohol or narcotics. This is an arrest rate of 1 for every 165 licensed drivers in the United States Economic costs of alcohol-related crashes are estimated to be $59 billion yearly. An additional $70.5 billion is the loss in quality of life due to these crashes. Drugs other than alcohol (e.g., marijuana and cocaine) are involved in about 18% of motor vehicle driver deaths. These other drugs are often used in combination with alcohol.

In 2019 there were 32,177 arrests in Florida. Law enforcement spends millions of taxpayer dollars to enforce DUI regulations. Family and friends can be torn apart as a result of the actions of an impaired driver. A loved one can be killed, injured or maimed. The loss of a family provider can ruin a family for life. The action of one impaired driver can destroy the lives of many in a matter of seconds. There is a personal economic cost for medical treatment for addictions, and legal fees resulting from a DUI conviction can be enormous.

Persuasive Methods to Prevent Drinking and Driving

The two main methods used to prevent drinking and driving are individual behavior changes or environmental strategies. Individual prevention programs include school-based programs targeting the adolescent, such as D.A.R.E. programs. Drug Abuse Resistance Education Programs include methods to increase self-esteem, improve decision-making skills, and resist peer pressure. Warning labels on alcohol beverages include the potential for health problems and impairment of your ability to drive a vehicle or operate machinery.

Deterrent factors include no plea-bargaining and certainty and swiftness of punishment for driving under the influence. Other possible deterrent methods include decreasing availability by increasing the price of alcoholic beverages, higher taxes on alcohol, and fewer stores selling alcohol. Bars and restaurants that wish to deter drinking and driving should not advertise "Happy Hours", "Ladies Drink Free", "2 for 1" drinks and a buy-back policy. This type of advertising only encourages the participants to consume more alcohol.

How to persuade a friend not to drive under the influence: Put away all of the liquor and beer at least an hour before your event is scheduled to end. Look for a designated driver, a person who hasn't been drinking. If you notice a person you feel is impaired, help the person recognize he or she can't drive. Talk to him and show him that he is increasingly clumsy or slurring, and give him an alternative way to get home. For example, ask who you can call to pick him up, or what cab company he would like to use. If all else fails and an impaired person is about to drive home, threaten to call the police or take their keys. Ask him or her where their keys are and, when they are distracted, take away his keys. This may make it easier to convince him or her to take a cab home or spend the night.

1. A sixteen year old person causes more collisions per mile than any other age group.

2. In the past 10 years more than 300,000 Americans died in the U.S. in traffic-related collisions.

3. A sixteen year old person causes more collisions per mile than any other group.

4. Alcohol can slow down reaction time by 10 to 30 percent.

5. Alcohol reduces the ability to see distant objects and night vision can be reduced by 25 percent.

6. A driver who is impaired may do the following:

1. Straddling center lane or lane marker and almost striking an object or vehicle.
2. Taking extremely wide turns or driving the wrong way.

7. The two main methods used to prevent drinking and driving are individual behavioral changes or environmental strategies.

8. One person is killed in an alcohol-related crash every 51 minutes.

Effect of Alcohol and Other Drugs On the Driver of a Motor Vehicle

(The effects of alcohol and other drug abuse on the judgment of the driver of a motor vehicle and the order of these effects)

What effects do alcohol and other drugs have on driving a motor vehicle?

Driving is a complex task, largely because a driver must actually perform several tasks at one time. A driver may have to brake or accelerate, control steering, react to driving conditions and perform many other routine activities. Alcohol and drugs will affect the ability to perform these tasks.

Impairment begins on the driver of a motor vehicle at the first intake of alcohol and other drugs. The more a person consumes, the more the ability to safely operate a motor vehicle decreases. Once alcohol is absorbed into the bloodstream, it is quickly distributed throughout the body.

It will affect the central nervous system. The short-term effects include the following:

The alcohol acts as a depressant causing the body to slow down. The flow of blood carries the alcohol with the oxygen to the brain. Alcohol will reach the brain within minutes. The alcohol inhibits blood from transporting oxygen to the brain cells. When the brain cells are deprived of oxygen, a person becomes impaired. The alcohol has an affinity for water. The brain tissues have high water content and will receive a great amount of the distributed alcohol.

The first thing affected will be a person's judgment, as a false sense of confidence may develop. Many people who are under the influence of alcohol do not believe that they are impaired. Alcohol affects a person's vision and reduces alertness. There is a 30% reduction of peripheral vision, and double or blurred vision may occur. This makes it more difficult to see vehicles and pedestrians at your side.

Hearing becomes less acute and concentration and alertness become more difficult when alcohol is consumed. The driver may not hear an emergency vehicle or may not observe a stop sign or red light.

Reaction Time is increased, and a driver cannot react as well to emergency situations. Alcohol causes rapid heart rate and respiration rate (shortness of breath) resulting in increases reaction time, poor coordination, and poor reflex responses. The effects of alcohol will inhibit your ability to drive a motor vehicle in a safe manner.

Effects of Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse On the Motor Skill

(Reaction time and physical coordination) and vision of the driver of a motor vehicle)

Alcohol slows down the central nervous system function and is a depressant. Messages that are carried to and from the brain and body's nerves and muscles can transmit incorrectly or slowly. Signals coming into the brain are dulled, like pain which lessens awareness of injury. There is equal deterioration of signals from the brain to the muscles which results in a loss of precision motor skills. This becomes more severe with higher concentration of alcohol in the blood. Certain messages may be blocked from reaching your brain. Hearing, vision, and emotions can be affected in addition to your reaction time. Drugs and alcohol can also diminish coordination of muscles. A driver who has been drinking cannot react properly to his or her surroundings if he/she has been drinking. As early as ten minutes after drinking starts, the immediate physical effects of alcohol abuse can be felt. If one continues to consume alcohol, the immediate effect worsens and becomes more serious.

Consuming alcohol can cause behavioral changes. As little as one or two drinks can cause physical effects of alcohol abuse. Impaired coordination and judgment may result in a collision.

Vision: When drinking alcohol, vision may be impaired. Alcohol degrades vision in numerous ways. Some of the ways that vision becomes impaired are increased susceptibility to glare, narrowed field of vision, and decreased ability to differentiate colors. A mistake in motor control is a result of not being able to see surrounding clearly.

Physical alcohol abuse effects:

1. Reduction of Inhibitions - at a Blood Alcohol Level of 0.05, there is a noticeable change in a person's behavior.
2. Loss of Muscle Control - at a BAL of 0.10, there can be evidence of slurred speech. Poor coordination, impaired judgment and physical effects of abusing alcohol can lead to a collision or fall.
3. Memory Loss and/or Blackouts - The brain's control mechanisms are depressed by alcohol. If blood alcohol levels increase, there may be a loss of memory.
4. Stupor - at a BAL of 0.40, a person can act dazed, be confused, and hardly able to function.
5. Coma - at a BAL of 0.50, a person is at risk for coma, which is life-threatening. Respiratory paralysis and death at this level and higher become strong possibilities.

The dangers of driving after using alcohol or drugs include:

1. The driver's reaction time may take longer, especially during emergencies.
2. There is a reduced ability of the driver to think clearly. This makes it difficult to perform multiple tasks in order to safely drive.
3. The driver's ability to pay attention is reduced, including not being aware of other drivers on the road, blurred vision and reduced hearing.

Category of Drugs and How They Affect the Driving Task

The Controlled Substance Act of 1970: This act controlled the manufacturing, distribution, preparation, dispensing, and administration of such substances. It categorizes drugs into 5 schedules:

CSA 1 drug: It has the highest potential for abuse and has no recognized legitimate medical use.

Example: Peyote, cannabis, heroin, cocaine.

CSA 2 drug: It has a high potential for abuse and has a currently-accepted but severely restricted medical use.

Example: Amphetamine, methadone, codeine, and raw opium.

CSA 3 drug: It has potential for abuse but less than CSA 1 or CSA 2.

It has current accepted medical use.

Example: Anabolic steroids. Included in Schedule III are anabolic steroids, codeine and hydrocodone with aspirin or Tylenol®, and some barbiturates.

CSA 4 drugs:

1. Are accepted for medical use in the United States.
2. May lead to limited psychological and/or physical dependence.
3. Have a relatively low potential for abuse.

Drugs classified as Schedule IV include various benzodiazepines, including alprazolam (Xanax) and diazepam (Valium).

CSA 5 drug

1. Are accepted for medical use in the United States.
2. Are less likely to cause psychological and/or physical dependence than drugs in any other Schedule.
3. Have a low potential for abuse. Drugs classified as Schedule V include various over-the-counter medicines that contain codeine.

How CSA 1 Drugs Affect Driving

How does marijuana affect your driving?

Marijuana distorts the message to the brain (same as being impaired). It alters perception, vision, hearing, sense of time, concentration, coordination, judging distances and increases reaction time. All can affect your ability to drive a motor vehicle in a safe manner.

How does heroin affect your driving?

Heroin will cause disorientation and loss of coordination. The driver may not be able to handle routine traffic situations. The driver may become confused and make the wrong decisions. Relaxation and drowsiness will set in. The driver cannot react to emergency situations and reaction time is slower.

How CSA 2 Drugs Affect Driving (Amphetamine, Methadone)

How can cocaine and amphetamines affect your driving?

A person under the influence of cocaine or amphetamines can become confused while driving. These drugs speed up the central nervous system, giving a driver a false feeling of alertness and self-confidence. The driver may be willing to take risks and be over-confident. Amphetamines may cause dizziness, blurred vision, or restlessness, and may hide the symptoms of extreme tiredness. Fatigue is masked with these drugs. The driver may step on the gas pedal instead of the brake pedal; the driver can show or exhibit violent or erratic behavior. If another driver makes a mistake on the road, this can lead to aggressive driving "road rage." The driver will experience loss of coordination and disorientation and a slower reaction time. The driver may not be sure what to do in certain normal everyday traffic conditions.

How CSA 3 Drug Affects Driving (Anabolic Steroids)

How do steroids affect our driving?

The driver will experience aggression and mood swings. The driver may take chances a normal driver would not. The driver may experience aggressive driving and become easily hostile to another driver. The driver, under the influence of steroids, will have delusions and impaired judgment. The driver will drive erratically, not realizing the danger he is creating to himself and others.

How CSA 4 Drug Affects Driving?

The benzodiazepines are depressants used therapeutically to produce sedation, induce sleep, relieve anxiety and muscle spasms, and prevent seizures. They include alprazolam (Xanax), chlordiazepoxide (Librium), clonazepam (Klonopin), and diazepam (Valium). Symptoms include drowsiness, poor concentration, muscle weakness, dizziness and mental confusion. Each symptom can affect driving ability.

How CSA 5 Drug Affects Driving?

These drugs include: cough suppressants containing small amounts of codeine (e.g., promethazine codeine); preparations containing small amounts of opium or diphenoxylate (used to treat diarrhea); pregabalin (Lyrica), an anticonvulsant and pain modulator. Codeine is an opiate pain reliever and cough suppressant. It makes patients sleepy and causes blurred vision or slowed breathing, unusual thoughts or behavior, confusion, agitation, hallucinations, convulsions. Many of these symptoms can affect your driving ability.

When Does Impairment Begin On the Driver of a Motor Vehicle Motor Skills and Vision?

(Impairment begins at the first intake of alcohol and other drugs)

As use increases, ability to safely operate a motor vehicle decreases. Impairment begins with the first intake of alcohol or other drugs. The more you drink, your ability to safely operate a motor vehicle decreases. If a 120 lbs. person reaches a BAL of . 01-.04), the person will experience a slight feeling of muscle relaxation and slight mood elevation. At BAL of .05-.07, there will be a feeling of relaxation and warmth a slight increase in reaction time, decrease in fine muscle coordination. At BAL of.08-.15 the driver's balance, speech, vision and hearing will be slightly impaired. He may experience feelings of euphoria, increases in reaction time and increased loss of motor coordination. At BAL of .16-.20 the person will experience a major impairment of mental and physical control. This may include slurred speech, blurred vision, and lack of motor skills. At BAL of .21-.30, the person will experience loss of motor control; the person will need assistance moving around and have minimal control of mind and body. At BAL of.31-.40, the impairment will produce unconsciousness - (little to no reflexes). This may lead to abnormal temperature, lack of circulation; it will lead to a deep coma and probability of death from respiratory paralysis.

Ways to Avoid Driving Impaired

• Don't drink if you will drive
• Designated driver
• Call a cab
• Call a friend
• and stay overnight

How can you become a responsible host?

Avoid succumbing to peer pressure and do not drink simply because everyone else is drinking. Do not put out a large quantity of alcohol at one time, since this will encourage drinking. Encourage games, conversation or anything to interest a person and prevent him from having a drink in his hand. If you choose to drink, do not drive; call a cab, a friend, or stay overnight. Choosing a designated driver should be done prior to drinking, but always remember that abstinence is the best way to avoid DUI. No amount of drinking is acceptable before driving a motor vehicle.

1. When drinking alcohol, the first thing affected will be a person's judgment.

2. Alcohol affects a person's vision and reduces alertness. There is a 30% reduction of peripheral vision.

3. Impairment begins for the driver of a motor vehicle at the first intake of alcohol and other drugs.

4. CSA 1 drug: It has the highest potential for abuse and has no recognized legitimate medical benefit.

5. Examples of CSA1 drugs are peyote, cannabis, heroin and cocaine

6. CSA 2 drug: It has a high potential for abuse and has a currently-accepted but severely restricted medical use.

7. Examples of CSA 2 drugs are amphetamine, methadone, codeine, and raw opium

8. CSA 3 drug: It has potential for abuse but less than CSA 1 or CSA 2. It has current accepted medical use.

9. Examples of CSA 3 drugs are Anabolic steroids. Included in Schedule III are anabolic steroids, codeine and hydrocodone with aspirin or Tylenol®, and some barbiturates.

10. CSA 4 drugs are accepted for medical use in the United States, but may lead to limited psychological and/or physical dependence.

11. Drugs classified as Schedule IV include various benzodiazepines, including alprazolam (Xanax) and diazepam (Valium).

12. CSA 5 drugs are accepted for medical use in the United States.

13. Drugs classified as Schedule V include various over-the-counter medicines that contain codeine.

14. Impairment begins at the first intake of alcohol and other drugs.

What is meant by the term "graduated licensing"?

A person under 18 years of age must hold a learner's license for 12 months without a traffic conviction. A parent or guardian must certify that the applicant has at least 50 hours of behind the wheel driving experience and at least 10 hours of night time driving. A person who holds a driver's license who is 17 years of age, when operating a motor vehicle between 1 a.m. and 5 a.m., must be accompanied by a licensed driver, at least 21 years or older with a valid driver's license. The licensed driver must be in the front passenger seat, unless the 17 year old is driving to or from work. A 16 year old cannot drive between the hours of 11p.m.and 6 a.m. unless there is a licensed driver at least 21 years old in the front passenger seat, or the 16 year old is going to or coming from work. There are a number of infractions that can cause you to lose or restrict your driving privileges. The following are of particular interest to teen drivers' .If you receive a moving traffic conviction while you have a Learner's License, the one year period you are required to hold your Learner's License will be extended for one year from the date of the conviction or until you are 18 years old, whichever happens first. If you receive 6 points on your driving record within a 12 month period, your driving privileges are automatically restricted to business purposes only for 12 months or until you are 18, whichever happens first. If you receive additional points during this restricted period, the restriction is extended 90 days for each additional point. If you have a blood alcohol level of .02% or more (applies to those under age 21), an administrative suspension of six months will result. If you are truant in your school attendance, your driving privilege is suspended until you provide proof you have attended school for 30 consecutive days. If a person under 18 years of age and convicted of possession of tobacco, their license will be revoked from six months to one year.

What are the insurance requirements?

Minimum insurance coverage allowed:

• $10,000 Bodily Injury Liability
• $20,000 Bodily Injury Liability- two or more persons
• $10,000 Property Damage Liability
• $30,000 Combined single limits

Why is it important to have insurance and what are the consequences if you do not?

If you hit someone, you will be responsible for the damages you caused, including car repairs, medical bills, car rental and so on. All it takes is one accident to ruin your life if you are not protected by auto insurance.

If a Florida driver is caught for the first-time without car insurance, the first-time offender may have his license plate confiscated or in some cases the court may impose a 60 day license revocation. In Florida drivers who are caught without car insurance more than one time, the vehicle they are driving can be impounded In Florida, for instance, the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles can suspend your driver's license, your registration and your vehicle tags for up to three years or until you take out car insurance policy. You can also be fined anywhere from $100 to $500 for failure to keep insurance.

No-Fault Law: The law requires anyone that owns, or has a registered motor vehicle that has been in Florida for at least 90 days during a 1 year period, to have the following coverage: $10,000 in Personal Injury Protection and $10,000 in Property Damage Liability.

Zero Tolerance, Implied Consent, Minimum Drinking Age

(It is illegal for most of the people taking this course to have or consume alcohol)

Progressive DUI Laws

What is the "ZERO TOLERANCE LAW"?

Any driver under 21 years of age who is stopped by law enforcement and is under the influence of alcohol or who has any breath-alcohol level may lawfully be detained and asked to submit to a breath test. If the driver submits to the breath test and has a breath or blood alcohol level of .02 or higher, his or her driving privilege will automatically be suspended for 6 months. If the driver refuses to take a test, his or her driving privilege is automatically suspended for 1 year or 18 months if previously refused. One beer, a glass of wine, or a shot of liquor may put a driver at or above the .02 level.

What does Implied Consent mean?

In the state of Florida, any person who accepts the privilege to drive a motor vehicle is deemed under the law to have given consent to submit to a breath or urine test if he or she is arrested for any offense committed while driving under the influence of alcohol beverages, chemical, or controlled substances. If a person refuses to submit to the blood, breath or urine test this will result in a license suspension for 1 year for a first refusal. Refusal to submit to a breath, urine, or blood test is admissible as evidence in DUI criminal proceedings. Second or subsequent refusal is a misdemeanor of the first degree and there is an18 month suspension for any subsequent refusals.

Minimum Drinking Age: It is unlawful for any person under 21 years of age to have in his possession an alcoholic beverage. It is unlawful for any person to possess an open container of alcoholic beverage or consume an alcoholic beverage while operating a vehicle. It is unlawful for any person while seated in or on a motor vehicle that is stopped within a road or being operated in the state to possess an open container of an alcoholic beverage or consume an alcoholic beverage.

The Law

What does DUI mean?

Driving under the Influence of alcoholic beverages, chemical substances or controlled substances.

What does BAC mean?

Breath/Blood Alcohol Content

How is BAC measured?

• Breath Test - It is measured in grams of alcohol per 210 liters of breath.
• Blood Test - It is measured in grams of alcohol per 100 milliliters of blood with a gas chromatograph.
• Urine Test - It is measured in grams of alcohol per 67 milliliters of urine. Both blood and urine can be used to detect alcohol or other substances.

What factors can affect BAL?

BAL is the weight of alcohol in a volume of blood. BAL levels are only general guidelines and are easily influenced by other factors: number of drinks that are consumed per hour, the food you eat, weight, age, gender, time, personal tolerance, metabolism and amount of body fat. Each person is affected differently.

What should you do when a police officer stops your vehicle?

Pull to the side of the roadway, remain seated in your vehicle with both hands on the steering wheel, turn off the engine, keep your hands in plain sight and do not reach for an item in the car suddenly or without direction from the officer. If your vehicle is equipped with tinted windows, roll the windows down. If a traffic citation is issued, you must sign it. It is the law.

What is the BAT?

The BAT is the Breath Alcohol Testing Unit. If arrested for DUI, you will be taken to the BAT, where roadside exercises may be performed and recorded on video to be used in court. Implied consent will be read to you. Breath, urine or blood tests may be performed. You can remain at BAT until your BAL is lower than 0.05 or eight hours have elapsed from the time you were arrested.

Progressive DUI Law

DUI Enhanced Penalties: Penalties may be enhanced for the following reasons:

1. BAL above .15 at the time of arrest.
2. A minor (under 18 years old) in the vehicle at time of incident.
3. A 2nd DUI conviction within a 5-year period.
4. A 3rd DUI conviction within a 10-year period.
5. A collision with injuries or property damage.

Penalties for Driving Under the Influence Offenses

First conviction: Jail sentence of 0-180 days; up to one year probation; Fine: $500-$1,000; driver license revocation for 6-12 months. 50 hours of community service and Level 1 DUI School; vehicle impounded for 10 days; an Ignition Interlock Device administered if ordered by the court.

First conviction enhanced penalties: Jail sentence of not more than six months; with a BAL .15 or higher and a minor in the vehicle at the time of arrest not more than nine months; Fine: with a BAL .15 or higher and a minor in the vehicle, $1000-$2000; up to 12 months probation; Ignition Interlock Device is mandatory for at least six continuous months if the chemical test results show a BAL of .15 or higher or if a minor (younger than 18 years of age) was in the vehicle, when the convicted person qualifies for a permanent or restricted license. For DUI arrests and convictions after July 1, 2005, the department shall administratively order an Ignition Interlock Device if the court does not.

Second conviction: Jail sentence of 10-270 days; Probation up to 1 year; A fine of $1000-$2000; 5 year license revocation; Level 2 DUI School; Vehicle immobilization for 30 days; An Interlock Ignition Device must be installed on all vehicles that the individual owns, and must remain for a minimum of one continuous year. For DUI arrests and convictions after July 1, 2005, the department shall administratively order an Ignition Interlock Device if the court does not.

Second conviction enhanced penalties: If not within 5 years from prior conviction, it will result in a 180-day to 1-year revocation. You cannot reinstate early for hardship. The full revocation period must be served before requesting driver license reinstatement. Fine of $1000-2000; Imprisonment for up to 9 months (not mandatory); Probation for a period not to exceed 1 year; DUI School; 10 day vehicle immobilization; 50 hours of community service; Mandatory placement for a period of at least 1 continuous year (at the convicted person's sole expense) of an Ignition Interlock Device approved by the department upon all vehicles that are individually or jointly leased or owned and routinely operated by the convicted person, when the convicted person qualifies for a permanent or restricted license.

Second DUI within Five (5) Years of Prior DUI Conviction

Second (2nd) Offense Enhanced: Mandatory 10 days in jail, but it may be up to 364 days; Fine for a Second Conviction: Not less than $1,000, or more than $2,000. With BAL of .15 or higher or minor in the vehicle the fine is not less than $2,000, or more than $4,000. The Interlock Ignition Device will be installed in defendant's car and remain for a minimum of 2 continuous years, when the convicted person qualifies for a permanent or restricted license. For DUI arrests and convictions after July 1, 2005, the department shall administratively order an Ignition Interlock Device if the court does not.

Third conviction (the 2nd offense having occurred within the past 10 years) - 3rd Degree Felony: If third conviction within 10 years, mandatory imprisonment from 30 months to 5 years (at least 48 hours of confinement must be consecutive); probation up to five years; license revocation for 10 years; Level 2 DUI School; 90 days vehicle immobilization; 2 continuous years minimum of an Ignition Interlock Device.

Third conviction enhanced (the 2nd offense having occurred within the past 10 years). With BAL of .15 or higher or minor in the vehicle, same penalties as "third conviction" above with the exception of a fine of not less than $4,000. If third conviction is more than 10 years since the prior conviction, imprisonment for not more than 12 months; Probation for up to 12 months; A fine of $2000-$5000; License Revocation of 6-12 months; Level 2 DUI school; 10 days vehicle immobilization; 2 continuous years minimum Ignition Interlock Device. For DUI arrests and convictions after July 1, 2005, the department shall administratively order an Ignition Interlock Device if the court does not.

Fourth conviction: - 3rd Degree Felony; Jail up to 5 years; Probation for up to 5 years; Fourth or Subsequent Conviction: Not less than $2,000. DUI School Level 2; All of Defendant's cars will be impounded for 10 days; A driver whose license has been permanently revoked for driving under the influence may apply for a restricted license 10 years after the last conviction and upon meeting all other requirements of law. If the application is approved, the driver must install an Ignition Interlock Device for not less than 5 years.

4th DUI or Subsequent DUI Conviction

You must serve 5 years of this revocation period before being eligible to apply for a hardship license in the Administrative Reviews Office (see listing "Under Suspension - Need Driver License for Work") where you live. You must complete DUI School, and treatment, if referred, and have a favorable recommendation from the Special Supervision Services Program to be eligible for a hardship license. If given approval to reinstate early for hardship, you must present this approval to the driver license office. You must remain in the Special Supervision Services Program to retain your hardship license. If approved for a restricted license, a driver permanently revoked for driving under the influence must install an Ignition Interlock Device for not less than 5 years.

At the time of reinstatement you must take the required examination, and pay an Administrative fee and revocation reinstatement fee and any license fee required. For a DUI conviction on or prior to October 1, 2007, you must provide proof of bodily injury liability insurance in the amount of $10,000 per person and $20,000 per occurrence and $10,000 property damage liability on the arrest date or pay a $15 reinstatement fee. Any DUI conviction after October 1, 2007, must provide proof of bodily injury liability insurance in the amount of $100,000 per person,$300,000 per occurrence and $50,000 property damage liability on the arrest date or pay a fee of $150 up to $500.

A DUI conviction will remain on your driving record for 75 years

Drug Laws

Possession of Cannabis: Less than 20 grams is a 1st degree misdemeanor punishable up to 1 year in jail, a $1000 fine, or both.

Possession of Cocaine: Any amount is a 3rd degree felony, punishable up to 5 years in jail, a $5000 fine, or both. Possession of any drug, if adjudicated guilty, is an automatic license revocation for 2 years.

Insurance: The first major effect you will see on your insurance after a DUI is gaining the classification of a "high risk driver." This classification gives your insurance company the right to dramatically increase your insurance premiums. In some cases, the company can even opt to cancel your insurance coverage. If you are convicted of a DUI in Florida, you are required to carry $100,000-300,000 in bodily injury liability insurance and $50,000 in property damage liability insurance.

Point System, Suspension, Cancellation, Revocation and Disqualification

(Including the definition of the sanction of your driving privilege)

What are my options after receiving a traffic citation?

A person cited for a traffic violation, who does not elect to appear in court, shall pay the civil penalty. If applicable, fines can be paid in person or by mail within 30 days of the date the citation was received.

If a person decides to go to court, the judge shall make a decision after the hearing as to whether an infraction has been committed. At a court hearing, if it is determined that a violation has been committed, the court may impose a civil penalty not to exceed $500.00 or require attendance at a traffic school, or both. On violations involving death or speeding in a school/construction zone, the fine shall not exceed $1,000.00. Failure to appear, failure to complete court ordered traffic school or failure to pay court costs will result in your driver's license being suspended until all requirements are met.

If the judge determines that no infraction has been committed, no costs or penalties shall be imposed except court costs. All traffic cases must be heard within 180 days. Any person cited for a traffic infraction may elect to attend a Driver Improvement Course to have adjudication withheld, provided the person hasn't made that election within the previous 12 months. Drivers are limited in the number of traffic school elections they may make in order to avoid points, to no more than five in a lifetime.

Florida Point System

A conviction in another state of a violation therein which, if committed in Florida would be a violation of the traffic laws of Florida, or a conviction of an offense under federal law substantially conforming to the traffic laws of Florida in another state, may be recorded against a driver on the basis of the same number of points received had the conviction been made in a court of the State of Florida.

Lengths of Suspension:

1. Total of 12 points within a 12-month period - 30 days.
2. Total of 18 points within an 18-month period, including points which cause suspension under line 1 above - 3 months.
3. Total of 24 points within a 36-month period, including points which cause suspension under lines 1 and 2 above - 1 year.

3 points will be deducted from the driving record of any person whose driving privilege has been suspended only once under the point system and has been reinstated, if such person has complied with all other requirements.

Points Assessment for Minors

The department shall restrict the driving privilege of any Class D or Class E licensee ages 15 through 17 who has accumulated four or more points within a 12-month period. Upon determination that any person has accumulated four or more points, the department shall notify the licensee and issue the licensee a restricted license for business purposes only. The licensee must appear before the department within 10 days after notification to have this restriction applied. The department after 1 year shall automatically withdraw the restriction if the licensee does not accumulate any additional points. If the licensee accumulates any additional points, then the period of restriction shall be extended an additional 90 days for each point. The restriction will also be automatically withdrawn upon the licensee's 18th birthday.

What do License Suspension, Revocation, Cancellation and Disqualification Mean?

Suspension is the temporary withdrawal of a licensee's privilege to drive a motor vehicle. A license can be suspended for several reasons. The most common suspensions are for accumulating too many points within a given period of time or for refusing to submit to a breath, blood or urine test in order to determine the blood alcohol level. Your license can be suspended for not paying one traffic citation. Truancy: If your school reports you as truant (not regularly attending school) your driving privilege will be suspended until you provide proof that you have attended school for 30 consecutive days.

Revocation: The privilege to drive a motor vehicle has been terminated. It is administrative in nature. The Department of Highway Safety & Motor Vehicles will immediately revoke a driver's license upon receiving a record of a licensee's conviction for the following: manslaughter resulting from the operation of a motor vehicle; driving or being in actual physical control of the motor vehicle while under the influence; any felony in commission of which a motor vehicle was used; conviction upon three charges of reckless driving committed within twelve months, or conviction of a felony for possession of a controlled substance (if at the time of possession, the person was driving or in actual physical control of the motor vehicle).

Physical and Mental Requirements: You must list any physical or mental problems on your license application which might affect your driving. Many of the physical problems can be handled by placing restrictions on your license. If you have epilepsy, fainting spells, dizziness, blackouts or any other medical condition that could impair your driving, you may be asked to have your doctor complete a medical report form. These forms may be requested through your local driver licenses office and will be mailed directly to you. The report must be completed by your doctor and submitted to the Department before a license can be issued. If you are diabetic, and use insulin, you may request that it be indicated on your license. You can be revoked for a medical condition unit the condition is clears up. A person with epilepsy may be licensed to drive upon their doctor's recommendation after they have been seizure-free for six months, so long as they are under regular medical supervision and submit a current neurological evaluation. The application is reviewed by the Medical Advisory Board of the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, which makes a recommendation to the Department. If the MAB believes there are particular factors which would make it unsafe for a person to drive even though the person has been seizure-free for six months, it may recommend a longer seizure-free period. An evaluation is not needed for applicants who have been seizure-free for 2 years.

Cancellation means that a license which was issued through error or fraud has been declared void and terminated. The Department of Highway Safety & Motor Vehicles is authorized to cancel a Florida driver's license if the licensee was not entitled to the issuance of the license or if the licensee failed to give the required or correct information or committed fraud in making an application. Your license may be cancelled if you fail to complete a department required driver improvement course.

Disqualification will occur if the holder of a commercial driver's license commits certain offenses and is disqualified from operating a commercial vehicle. Reasons for disqualification include driving a commercial motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or a controlled substance, driving a commercial motor vehicle while the alcohol concentration of blood, breath or urine is .04, or higher, or if a person is convicted of two serious traffic violations committed in a commercial vehicle within a 3 year period.

Driving in the State of Florida is a privilege. If you break the traffic laws or become an unsafe driver, your license can be taken away. It can be suspended, revoked or cancelled. Since Florida has "reciprocal agreements" with most of the other states, the loss or suspension is also applied to those states where if you have privileges, or if you have neglected to pay a ticket in another state. When you are stopped by a police officer while driving under the influence, you may be asked to take a blood, urine or breath test. You may refuse, but you will face immediate administrative sanctions and possibly a suspension of your driving privileges. Persons convicted of driving a commercial motor vehicle with a blood alcohol level of .04 or above: driving a motor vehicle while he or she is under the influence of alcohol or a controlled substance or refusing to submit to a test to determine the alcohol concentration while driving a commercial motor vehicle, driving a commercial motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or controlled substance, or driving a commercial motor vehicle while in possession of a controlled substance shall be disqualified from operating a commercial motor vehicle for a period of 1 year. This is in addition to any provisions of f.s.316.193 for DUI convictions. A second or subsequent conviction of any of the above offenses arising out of separate incidents will result in a permanent disqualification from operating a commercial motor vehicle. There are no provisions for persons disqualified from operating a commercial motor vehicle to obtain a hardship (business or employment) license to operate a commercial motor vehicle.

Safety Equipment, Seat Belts, Child Restraints, Air Bags

(and the driver's responsibility to ensure that all safety equipment is used in accordance with the law)

Why should I wear a seat belt?

Each year, hundreds of people are killed each day in motor vehicle crashes, about 1000 are hospitalized due to traffic collisions. Many lives and injuries can be prevented if people "buckle up". After receiving your driver's license, most of you will go out and celebrate. Some of you will take your friends out for a ride. Some of you will put nine of your friends into a vehicle that seats five. STOP- two people cannot share one seat belt. When a person sits on the lap of another person, it creates a blind spot. Changing lanes is impossible to do safely. Concentration with more than five people in your vehicle is unsafe and futile due to many distractions.

What happens during a collision?

Most collisions take place at speeds under 40 mph and within 25 miles from your home. During a collision, a vehicle may hit a wall, tree, pole or another vehicle. The vehicle will come to a stop in 1/10 of a second. In 1/100 of a second after the first collision there is a second collision - which involves the driver. The driver and other people or objects that are inside the vehicle are still moving. If not secured in the vehicle, people and objects will be tossed around inside the vehicle or ejected during a crash. At 30 mph, a 150-pound person who is not restrained may crash into the steering wheel, dashboard or windshield with an impact force of greater than 70 tons of force to dissipate. The driver may lose control of the vehicle during a crash and passengers inside the vehicle can be thrown against each other. This is known as a human collision.

How are seat belts worn?

Belts are designed to lock at impact speeds of 3 to 5 mph. The lap belt should be worn around the hip, not the stomach. Fasten the belt snuggly and securely. The shoulder belt should be worn across shoulder and chest. Check proper position by inserting a closed fist between your chest and the belt with your thumb against your chest. The belt should feel comfortable.

What are the responsibilities of the occupants in the vehicle?

The fine for not wearing a safety belt is $30, but added court costs and fees could bring the total to over $100.The driver and all passengers in the front seat must wear a safety belt. It's the law. Passengers under the age of 18 in all seated locations (front or back seat) must be restrained by a safety belt or by a child restraint device. If they are not restrained properly, the driver will be issued a citation. Occupants over the age of 18 have their own responsibility to wear a safety belt. They may receive a citation if they are not belted. They are responsible for their own safety in this regard. Primary enforcement of the seatbelt law: Not wearing a seatbelt was made a nonmoving violation, on June 30th, 2009.Under the seatbelt law, officers may be able to pull people over if they feel that the driver of, or a passenger in, the car is not wearing a seat belt. "Click It or Ticket."

Concept of 2nd Collision

What happens during a collision?

In a crash there are actually three collisions.

1) The car's collision.

2) The human collision

3) The internal collision.

The car crash: During a collision, the car crashes to a stop. At 30 mph, a car hitting an object that is not moving will crumple in about two feet. As the car crushes, it absorbs some of the force of the collision.

The human crash: At the moment of impact, driver and passengers in the vehicle are still traveling at the vehicle's original speed. When the vehicle comes to a complete stop the passengers continue to move forward until they come in contact with some part of the vehicle-- for example, the steering wheel, the dashboard or windshield. Humans in a crash can also cause serious injuries to other humans when they collide with each other. People in the front seat of a car are often hit by rear-seat passengers as they fly forward at incredible force. An unrestrained passenger weighting 180 pound moving at 35 mph will have an impact force of 236,970 pounds.

The internal collision: In a crash, even after a human body comes to a complete stop, its internal organs are still moving. Suddenly, these internal organs slam into other organs of the skeletal system. This "internal collision" is what often causes serious injury and death. An example of an internal collision is when, after the person stops moving, the brain hits the inside of the skull. The impact can result in a concussion, brain damage, or death.

Air Bags

Air bags were designed to provide protection in frontal and side crashes only. Therefore, seat belts must always be used. The air bag detonates in a crash of 8 to 12 mph. The air bag will inflate within 1/20 of a second at a speed in excess of 200 mph. After impact, within 4/20 of a second, the air bag begins to deflate. It's all over in less than one second. If a subsequent crash should occur during this time, your air bag will be deflated, but your seat belt is still on and your chances of survival improve. The American Automobile Manufacturers recommend positioning yourself as far back from the air bag compartment as is comfortable while allowing for safe operation of the vehicle to prevent injuries from air bag deployment.

Head Rests

Headrests reduce the risk of neck injury in a rear end collision. The headrest should be adjusted between the top of your ears and top of your head. Horizontal placement should be as close to your head as possible, without pushing your head forward or causing the height of the head restraint to drop. The passenger in the front seat should also adjust the headrest for proper fit.

Child Restraints: Jan 1, 2015 Change, 316.613 Child Restraint Requirements.

(1)(a) Every operator of a motor vehicle as defined in this section, while transporting a child in a motor vehicle operated on the roadways, streets, or highways of this state, shall, if the child is 5 years of age or younger, provide for protection of the child by properly using a crash-tested, federally approved child restraint device.

1. For children aged through 3 years, such restraint device must be a separate carrier or a vehicle manufacturer's integrated child seat.

2. For children aged 4 through 5 years, to be secured in a separate child carrier, or a vehicle manufacturer's integrated child seat, or a child booster seat may be used.

However, the requirement to use a child restraint device under this subparagraph does not apply when a safety belt is used as required in s. 316.614(4)(a) and the child: a. Is being transported gratuitously by an operator who is not a member of the child's immediate family; b. Is being transported in a medical emergency situation involving the child; or c. Has a medical condition that necessitates an exception as evidenced by appropriate documentation from a health care professional.(5) Any person who violates this section commits a moving violation, punishable as provided in chapter 318 and shall have 3 points assessed against his or her driver license as set forth in s. 322.27. In lieu of the penalty specified in s. 318.18 and the assessment of points, a person who violates this section may elect, with the court's approval, to participate in a child restraint safety program approved by the chief judge of the circuit in which the violation occurs, and, upon completing such program, the penalty specified in chapter 318 and associated costs may be waived at the court's discretion and the assessment of points shall be waived. The child restraint safety program must use a course approved by the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, and the fee for the course must bear a reasonable relationship to the cost of providing the course.

Drivers should use the restraints in the rear-facing position as long as children fit within the height and weight limits of the car seat as established by the manufacturer. When you have children in your car, it is compulsory to use a child restraint for those children under five. However, it is a good idea to keep children in a child restraint or booster seat until they can use an ordinary car seat belt safely. It is the driver's responsibility to see that children are safely restrained. Using a child restraint correctly will greatly reduce the chance of your child being injured or killed in a crash. It is the driver's responsibility to ensure that children under the age of 18 years are restrained correctly in accordance with the law. The safest place for a petite adult or child under the age of twelve is the back seat.

Driver's legal responsibilities: It is unlawful for any person to operate a vehicle in the state of Florida unless every passenger of the vehicle under the age of 18 is restrained by a safety belt or by a child restraint device, regardless of the seating position.

A seat belt violation will be charged to the driver when a person under 18 is not restrained by a safety belt or a child restraint device. If a passenger is 18 years or older and fails to wear a seat belt when required by law, the passenger will be charged with a seat belt violation.

Do not place a child or infant in front of an active airbag. If the air bag inflates, the force could seriously injure or kill the child .The safest place for a petite adult, child under the age of 13, or infant, is the back seat.

In Florida, the law mandates that drivers and front-seat passengers of a vehicle must wear seatbelts, and all backseat passengers who are under 18 years old must also wear them. However, if you are over 18 years old and in the backseat, wearing a seatbelt is not mandatory. The only exception is minors, who must wear seatbelts in the backseat unless they have a medically diagnosed condition that prevents them from doing so. Regardless, you should always wear your seatbelt unless you have a medical condition prohibiting it.

Florida has a primary seat belt law (section 316.614, Florida Statutes), which means that law enforcement officers can issue citations to drivers and front-seat passengers who do not wear seatbelts. In addition, drivers can receive citations for not ensuring that minors in their vehicle wear seatbelts or for using inappropriate child safety restraints.

What should you do when approaching a school bus?

When approaching a school bus that displays flashing red lights or a stop signal, the vehicle must come to a full stop and remain in this position while the bus is stopped. The vehicle shall not pass the bus until the signal has been withdrawn.

Any person using, operating, or driving a vehicle that passes a school bus on the side that children enter and exit when the school bus displays a stop signal commits a moving violation and is subject to a mandatory hearing. If you are convicted of passing a stopped school bus, you are also required to attend a department-approved basic driver improvement course. The course must be completed within 90 days after receiving notice from the department.

The penalty for failure to stop for a school bus is $100, and for a second offense within a period of 5 years, the driver will have his/her driver's license suspended for a minimum of 90 days and up to 6 months.

Penalty for failing to stop and passing a school bus on the side where children enter and exit is $200 with a driver's license suspension of 180 days to a year, for a second offense within a period of five years. If convicted for passing a school bus, you will receive 4 points on your license. An additional $65 penalty is added for passing a stopped school bus. The additional revenue is to be distributed to the Department of Health for trauma centers. The driver of a vehicle moving in the opposite direction of a bus does not have to stop if driving on a divided highway with an unpaved space of at least 5 feet. The same applies to a raised physical barrier.

For traffic proceeding in the same direction as the school bus, the traffic must come to a complete stop each time the school bus stops to load and unload children. Each school bus that was bought after Dec 31, 2000, and used to transport students in grade pre-K through grade 12 must be equipped with seatbelts.

The speed limit in an activated school zone may not be less than 15 mph or more than 20 mph "Speeding Fines Double" within an active school zone.

How Should You Handle Approaching an Emergency Vehicle?

When approaching an emergency vehicle traveling to meet an existing emergency, the driver shall yield the right-of-way to the emergency vehicle. The driver shall immediately proceed to a position parallel to, and as close as reasonable to, the closest edge of the curb or the roadway. The driver shall stay clear of any intersection. The vehicle shall stop and remain in position until the emergency vehicle has passed or the driver is directed by a law enforcement officer to move.

What Should You Do at a Railroad Crossing?

At a railroad crossing, always stay alert. Look for warning signs and signals. Watch for flashing lights; listen for the ringing of bells or whistle of the approaching train. If an oncoming railroad train is plainly visible, emits an audible signal or approaches the crossing, a vehicle that is approaching the railroad-highway grade crossing shall stop within 50 feet (but not less than 15 feet) from the nearest rail of such railroad. Do not proceed until it is safe. Never try to outrun a train or drive around lowered gates. Do not move forward until the gate is completely up and lights stop flashing. Never enter the crossing unless you can proceed forward completely clear of the crossing. At a railroad crossing, look under the crossbar; this will tell you the number of tracks. At a multiple track crossing, wait for the train to pass and stay alert for a possible second train passing in your blind spot. If your vehicle stalls on tracks, leave your vehicle at once and move as far away from the tracks as possible.

"Move-Over-Law"

On a two-lane roadway, you are required to slow to a speed that is 20 miles per hour less than the posted speed limit if approaching an emergency vehicle. If the speed limit is 20 miles per hour or less, you must slow down to five miles per hour. If you are driving on an interstate or roadway with multiple lanes of travel in the same direction, and you approach an emergency or law enforcement vehicle parked along the roadway, you must vacate the lane closest to that vehicle as soon as it is safe to do so. If you are not able to safely "move over," you must slow down to a speed of 20 MPH below the posted speed limit unless directed otherwise by a law enforcement officer.

What happens when you speed?

Speeding affects your field of vision. The faster you travel the narrower your visual field. Driving faster than the posted speed limit or too fast for conditions will make it difficult to foresee road hazards or negotiate a curve. Driving fast contributes to less time to react in an emergency. It also increases the distance necessary to come to a complete stop. According to NHTSA, the chances of death double for every 10 mph over 50 mph a vehicle travels.

A vehicle can travel much faster in a straight line than it can in a curve. It is easy to go too fast in a curve. If you go too fast, the tires will not be able to grip the road and the vehicle will skid. Always slow down before you enter the curve so you do not have to brake in the curve. Braking in a curve can cause the vehicle to skid.

Speeding Facts: Speeding-related crashes cost society about $40.4 billion each year. In 2019, over 10,000 lives were lost in speeding-related crashes. In 2019, 24 percent of female drivers in the 15 to 20-year-old age group and 19 percent of female drivers in the 21 to 24-year-old age group involved in fatal crashes were speeding at the time of the crash. Among males, 37 percent of 15 to 20-year-old and 37 percent of 21 to 24-year-old drivers involved in fatal crashes were speeding. Drivers 21 to 24 years old who were involved in fatal crashes in 2019, 50 percent of speeding drivers had BACs of .08 or higher, compared with only 24 percent of non-speeding drivers.

Effect of Speed: There is a strong effect of speed on the force of impact. If you are traveling at a speed of only 20 mph and hit an object, the force of the impact is equivalent to your vehicle plunging off a one-story building. At 40 mph, the force of the impact is equal to plunging off a four-story building. At 60 mph, the force of the impact is equal to plunging off a nine-story building. Speed Kills!

Imagine that two drivers travel 100 miles. Driver 1 averages 65 mph over the trip, and Driver 2 averages 85 mph. Driver 1 remains calm, uses less gas, and avoids risk. Driver 1's total time for the trip is 90 minutes. Driver 2 takes lots of risks, has an increased heart rate and uses more gas. Drive 2's total driving time is about 70 minutes. Would you risk your life to save 20 minutes?

Stopping Distance in Relation to Speed

The faster you travel, the greater the stopping distance. The response time is the total time it takes for a driver to perceive, evaluate, decide and react to a situation on a roadway. If you notice a hazard on the roadway, your response time can be one second to a second and a half and can vary depending on the type of hazard, your age, the weather, time of day and alcohol consumption. It will take 3/4 of a second to remove your foot from the gas pedal to the brake pedal. The distance you travel after applying your brakes depends on the speed your vehicle was traveling and the time it took you to realize there is a hazard. This time factor is called your Reaction Time. The 3/4 second reaction time is in a laboratory setting with an alert and prepared driver. When on the road under normal driving conditions, the reaction time increases as more things compete for the driver's attention.

Suppose you're driving on a beautiful clear day at 55 mph (80.67 feet/sec). A vehicle cuts in front of you, and you apply the brakes. If your reaction time is 1.5 seconds, your vehicle will travel 1.5x80.67 or 120.9 feet before the brakes are applied. Once the brakes are applied, the stopping distance is determined. In this case the stopping distance is 134.4 ft. Total stopping distance is 255.3 ft. for this entire process beginning from when you move your foot.

Imagine that you're driving along I-95 at 70 mph following 200 feet behind a truck carting unsecured material. All of a sudden, the material breaks loose and falls to the road. You notice the hazard. Your foot goes from the gas pedal to the brake pedal. You just traveled 154 feet. You start to apply the brake. It takes another 245 feet of braking distance to stop. The total stopping distance is 399 feet. (399 ft. - 200 ft. = 199 ft.) As you can see, you're short 199 feet; you're dead!

Speed Limit Zones

55 mph is the maximum speed limit in Florida if there are no posted speed limit signs. 70 mph is the usual posted speed limit on rural interstate highways. Driving too slowly is also against the law. In business and residential areas, 30mph is the default speed limit. 40mph is the minimum speed on interstate highways. Be aware of signs reducing the maximum posted speed. Use caution when approaching congested areas.

Racing on a Highway

Any person actively participating in any unauthorized motor vehicle or motorcycle contest of speed, acceleration or endurance on any highway, roadway, or parking lot is guilty of a misdemeanor of the second degree. A fine shall be imposed of not less than $250 and not more than $500. An additional $65 penalty is added for racing on the highway. Drivers who are convicted of racing on the highway are required to take a driver improvement course upon a first offense and their license will be revoked for 1 year. The fine for a second violation of street racing is increased to a minimum of $1,000 and a maximum of $3,000. A person convicted of a third violation of street racing commits a misdemeanor of the first degree with a minimum fine of $2,000 and a maximum fine of $5,000. The department shall also revoke the driver's license of the offender for 4years. When law enforcement determines that a person was engaged in a racing contest, the officer can arrest the person and a court can impound or immobilize the vehicle.

Speed Law

Florida law provides that people who are caught speeding excessively will pay a much greater fine than those driving just slightly over the posted limit. Drivers who are caught speeding 50 miles per hour over the posted speed limit face a $1,000 fine for a first offense, $2,500 and a one year suspended license for a second offense, and $5,000 and a ten year license suspension for a third offense. There is a mandatory hearing when speed exceeds the limit by 30 mph or more. Fines are doubled for a second or subsequent conviction within 12 months when speed exceeds the limit by 30 mph.

Fines for Speeding

*Speeding fines can vary on a case by case basis

Fines: A person cited for exceeding the speed limit by 5 mph in a legally posted school zone will be fined $50. A person exceeding the speed limit in a school zone or active construction zone will be assessed a fine double the usual amount. If a person chooses to plead not guilty to the traffic infraction, the person may elect to have the case heard. If at the hearing it is proven that an infraction has been committed, a civil penalty may be imposed not to exceed $500. In cases of unlawful speed in a school or construction zone, the civil penalty may not exceed $1000 and the driver can be required to complete a driving school course.

Scanning is knowing what is in front, in back, and to the side of your vehicle at all times. Check your side and rear mirrors every 5 seconds so that you know the positions of vehicles near you. Proper scanning is to look ahead to avoid last minute maneuvers of other drivers.

In city driving, scan down the road at least 10 to 15 seconds ahead of your vehicle. Scan 1 city block or to the next intersection. Scan for parked cars that may enter your path, jaywalkers, and red light runners. Within 1 mile of city driving, a driver can see about 200 hazards. In city driving, always scan down the road from sidewalk to sidewalk.

On a rural road or expressway, scan down the road about 1/4 of a mile or 20 to 30 seconds ahead. When scanning, take in the whole roadway. As you scan, note warning signs & signals, erratic driving patterns, debris on the road, a collision, traffic or a vehicle carrying unsecured material.

The average person will take between 2 and 4 seconds to recognize a hazard: It will take 0.5 sec. to 1 sec. to move the right foot from the accelerator to the brake and press the pedal. A motorist will travel more than 11 feet for each 10 mph at which he is traveling. Example: At 55 mph your vehicle will travel more than 60 feet before applying your brakes. With proper scanning, your ability to avoid a collision is greatly improved.

Response Time: Some feel overwhelmed by all of the traffic signs and signals. Gaps in traffic are hard to judge, making it more difficult to turn left at intersections or to merge with traffic when turning right. Medication may make you drowsy. Driving at night is difficult. All of these factors can impact your reaction time.

Reaction time has 3 categories:

Sensation: The time it takes to detect the problem (obstacle on the road). Audible detection is faster than visual.

Perception: The time that is needed to recognize the means to react (crash on the road).

Response Time: Acting in response to the problem by either braking or steering around it.

Why do you need a proper following distance?

If the vehicle in front of you slows down or stops quickly, you will be able to make a proper adjustment and avoid a rear end collision. A proper following distance will help scan in front of the vehicle you are following.

How do you obtain a proper following distance?

When the back bumper of the vehicle ahead passes a fixed object (a sign, shadow, pole or tire mark) start counting (1001, 1002, and 1003). When your front bumper reaches that spot, stop counting. If it took less than two seconds, you're too close. Slow down and re-establish the correct following distance of THREE SECONDS.

The faster you travel, the greater the following distance should be. Sometimes a vehicle may enter your following distance. DON'T PANIC! Just slow down and re-establish your correct following distance. The THREE Second Rule is used for city driving, highway driving and ideal weather conditions. Increase your following distance one or two seconds in inclement weather, rain, fog or night driving. Add two seconds or more when following a truck or being tailgated.

REMEMBER! You can't stop in time if you're too close to the vehicle in front of you.

How do you get rid of a vehicle that is tailgating?

Look in your rearview mirror. If you do not see tires of the vehicle in your rearview mirror - plus pavement - that vehicle is tailgating you. The best way to rid yourself of the tailgating vehicle is to change lanes or slow down to increase your following distance to 3 or 4 seconds. This maneuver will encourage the tailgating vehicle to pass. If the tailgater continues to follow you after you have given them room to pass, go to the nearest law enforcement agency or gas station and ask for help.

School and Construction Zones

In a school zone, drivers must always be alert and expect the unexpected. Many young children are not conscious of their surroundings. Children at play, children who are late or running to school, and children on bicycles are oblivious to traffic conditions. In a school zone, a driver must slow down and always watch for posted speed limits or flashing signals. School zones are essential for the safety of these children.

In a construction zone, signs and road markings may be confusing to drivers. Lanes may narrow; there may be slow moving traffic, large trucks or debris on the road. The driver should always be prepared for the unexpected or confused driver. Always reduce your speed, scan well ahead 1 or 2 blocks and always drive with care.

Fines: A person cited for exceeding the speed limit by 5 mph in a legally posted school zone will be fined $50. A person exceeding the speed limit in a school zone or active construction zone will be assessed a fine double the usual amount. If a person chooses to plea not guilty to the traffic infraction, the person may elect to have the case heard. If at the hearing it is proven that an infraction has been committed, a civil penalty may be imposed, not to exceed $500. In cases of unlawful speed in a school or construction zone, the civil penalty may not exceed $1000.

Specific Information on Motorcycle Licensing and Training

Motorcycles: Motorcycle licensing and training: If you wish to operate any two or three wheel motorcycle, with an engine more than 50 cc, you are required to have a motorcycle endorsement on your driver's license or a motorcycle-only license.

What are the requirements to obtain a motorcycle endorsement?

You must hold at least a regular Class E operator's driver license and complete the basic motorcycle safety course. The only way to obtain a motorcycle endorsement in the State of Florida is by completing the Basic Rider course given through the Florida Rider Training Program, regardless of age. Anyone riding without an endorsement can be charged with operating without a valid driver's license. Persons holding a Florida Learner's Driver's License may not legally operate or be licensed to operate any two or three wheel motor vehicles on Florida roads, streets or highways regardless of his or her age. Go to a driver license office or tax collector office that issues driver licenses and inform them that you have completed the course. Upon providing proper ID and paying the required endorsement fees, your license will be issued with a motorcycle endorsement.

Motorcycle Only License

You must be at least 16 years old, and if under 18, hold a Learner's License for one year with no traffic convictions - and pass the same knowledge test as for a regular Class E operator's driver license. You must complete the basic motorcycle safety course. After you complete the course go to a driver's license office or tax collector office that issues licenses and inform them that you completed the course. Upon providing proper ID and paying the required endorsements fees, your license will be issued with a motorcycle endorsement. If you are over 18 years old, you must pass the vision, road sign and road rule examinations or hold a current Learner's License and must provide completion of an approved motorcycle safety course.

Training: Every motorcycle rider must complete a basic motorcycle safety course before obtaining a motorcycle endorsement or motorcycle-only license. The course must be one that is approved by the State of Florida.

Basic Rider Course (BRC): The BRC has approximately five-hours of classroom instruction and 10-hours of on-cycle instruction. Training includes starting, stopping, turning, swerving, and cornering. Bikes, safety gear, and handbooks are provided. You'll need at least a Class E learner's license. Operators under 21 years old must wear a helmet. A person over 21 years of age may operate or ride a motorcycle without wearing a helmet if such person is covered by an insurance policy for at least $10,000 in medical benefits for injuries as a result of a motorcycle crash.

Eye Protection: Anyone operating a motorcycle must wear eye protection.

General Importance of Vehicle Safety Maintenance

(Including the dangers of carbon monoxide poisoning)

What should you do if your car breaks down on a freeway?

When your car starts having trouble, immediately turn on your hazard lights. Start maneuvering your vehicle to the side of the road. Whenever possible, pull the vehicle to the right hand side of the road. Try to avoid being in the middle lane. This lane is the most dangerous. If you have a cell phone, call for help immediately. Don't get out of your car until it is safe. If you are having car trouble and want to flag down a nearby driver, consider putting up your hood to attract attention. If you get out of the car, keep facing the traffic; don't stand behind or next to your vehicle. Get far away from the vehicle quickly to avoid being hit by oncoming cars. Stand behind a barrier, if possible. Never attempt to cross a multi-lane, high speed roadway.

You can use a cell phone to contact assistance for free. To contact Road Ranger Service Patrol - dial *FHP (*347) to request assistance. Road Rangers are equipped with first aid kits, two-ton jacks, and an air compressor. They operate twenty four hours a day, seven days a week. Road Rangers will assist the Florida Highway Patrol with incidents including blocked lanes or debris on the highway.

Vehicle Safety Maintenance

Maintenance is usually ignored until something goes wrong with your vehicle. The average automobile is made up of over 15,000 parts of which 5,000 are moving parts. Let us see what we really know about our vehicle.

Proper Maintenance: How do we keep our vehicle running safely?

Belts & Hoses: Check belts and hoses at least once a month. Don't touch the hoses if the vehicle was driven for a long period of time; hoses can be hot. Belts should be tight. Press down with your thumb midway along the belt's longest span. The belt should not give more than 1/2 inch of play. Look for cracks, brittle or soft spots. Belts should be changed every 60,000 - 120,000 miles. If a belt breaks, it can damage your engine. Hoses should be firm not brittle or cracked. Hoses which have soft spots, bulges or loose fittings should be replaced. It's very difficult to tell the condition of belts and hoses. You should follow the manufacturer's recommendations.

What Do You Know About Fluids?

Brake fluid: Check monthly. Fluid level should be 1/2 inch from the top of the reservoir.

Transmission fluid: Check monthly. Engine should be warm and running.

Power steering fluid: Check monthly. Remove reservoir dipstick. If level is down, add fluid.

Radiator coolant level: Check weekly. Keep radiator filled about a few inches below cap. You can fill with tap water or a 50/50 mixture of antifreeze and water. Replace every 30,000 to 60,000 miles. The coolant cleans and lubricates the components of cooling system.

Oil: Change every 3000 to 7500 miles. Check twice a month. If you drive 6,000 miles a year, change the oil filter in spring and fall each year.

Battery: Check at least monthly. Make sure that cables are attached securely and free of corrosion. To clean post and terminals, brush off acid with a wire battery brush or remove the acid with baking soda, water and toothbrush. Coat terminals with petroleum jelly to prevent corrosion.

What Do We Know About Tires?

1 of every 4 vehicles on the road has under-inflated tires 89% of drivers don't check tire pressure. 9% of vehicles on the road have at least one bald tire.

Tire Care: Ideally, you should rotate, balance and align tires every 5000 to 6000 miles.

Alignment should at least take place every 15,000 miles for better tire wear.

Use a tire air pressure gauge to check the pressure. The tire should be cold when checking. Check tires every two weeks. Use pressure that car manufacturer recommends. Correct air pressure can be found in the car owner's manual, vehicle door edge or glove compartment. In some cases, the front and rear tires may have different tire pressure.

What to note when checking your tires: In warm weather, a tire will lose more than 2 pounds of pressure per month. Tires have built-in tread wear indicators that let you know when it is time to replace your tires. These indicators are raised sections and spaced intermittently in the bottom of the tread grooves.

To check whether a tire needs to be replaced, place a penny within the tire's grooves and channels. Insert the penny so that Abraham Lincoln's head faces downward. Check to see whether you can still see Lincoln's face. If the tire tread obscures his face, then your tires probably don't need to be replaced. However, if the tire grooves are shallow enough that all of Lincoln's face can still be seen, it may be time to replace the tire.

Excessive wear in center of tire: An over-inflated tire is susceptible to impact, penetration and blowouts.

Both edges are worn: Indication of an under-inflated tire.

Feathering: wearing along one side only: Indication of poor alignment.

Bald spots: Regular scalloping of the tread: indication of out-of-balance wheels, alignment or weak shocks. The edge of the tire will wear faster on one side.

Uneven tire wear on front tires: Check steering or shocks.

Vehicle Safety Equipment

Make sure that headlights are clean and aligned. If they are not aligned or clean, the lights may blind other drivers and reduce visibility. Low beams should reflect 150 ft. ahead and high beams should reflect 450 ft. ahead. Turn signals should be seen from 1000 ft. and brake lights should be seen from 330 ft. in daylight. A headlight that is burned out can confuse on-coming vehicles as to your position on the road. A nonfunctional signal or brake light confuses other drivers of your intentions. The horn is heard from 200 ft., and it is used to ward off possible danger. It is not to be used to try to intimidate slow moving vehicles into going faster. The Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard regulates safety standards pertaining to certain types of equipment.

Some Standards are as Follows

Hydraulic and electric brake system to ensure safe braking performance under normal conditions and emergency conditions.

Brake hose standards are used to reduce brake system failure from pressure or vacuum loss due to hose rupture.

Bumper standard is used for impact resistance in low speed front and rear collisions. The height of the bumper is determined by the weight of the vehicle.

Impact protection standards minimize chest and facial injuries by providing steering systems that yield and seat belts to protect the occupants in the vehicle. These standards protect the public against unreasonable risk of crashes occurring as a result of design, construction, or performance of motor vehicles. These standards also protect against unreasonable risk of death or injury in the event crashes do occur.

Energy absorption in relation to vehicle design: It is reported that, of 3 million severe crashes annually, about 1.6 million are frontal crashes and about 800,000 are side crashes. Many late model vehicles are equipped with energy absorption safety features. These include crumple zones (engineering advancements in crumple zones design reduce passenger injury in a collision), side-impact door beams and 5 mph bumpers (bumpers designed to withstand a crash of 5mph without damage).

Side air bags, anti-lock brakes and updated head restraints are all great features, but nothing beats the defensive driver.

Carbon Monoxide: Carbon monoxide is a deadly, colorless, odorless, poisonous gas. The initial symptoms of low to moderate carbon monoxide poisoning are headache, fatigue, shortness of breath, nausea and dizziness. More severe symptoms include loss of muscular coordination, loss of consciousness, falling asleep behind the wheel and death.

Prevention: Run your vehicle's engine as little as possible inside a garage, and then only with the garage doors open. Keep windows partially open in your vehicle to ensure a good flow of fresh air. Have your vehicle's exhaust system inspected for leaks and have it repaired as needed. If the vehicle has air vent intakes in the front, close them and open the window when your engine is running while waiting in line behind other vehicles. If you drive a vehicle with a tailgate, when you open the tailgate, you also need to open vents or windows to make sure air is moving through your car. If only the tailgate is open, carbon monoxide from the exhaust will be pulled into the car. Carbon monoxide is odorless, tasteless and colorless. It is produced from the incomplete combustion of hydrocarbon fuels. A driver in a car with a faulty exhaust system is likely to be exposed to carbon monoxide poisoning. It will cause unconsciousness and death.

If you have symptoms that you think could be caused by carbon monoxide poisoning, leave the area at once, and call 911 or go to the emergency room. If you keep inhaling the fumes, you may die.

Never leave a child alone in a car, even with an open window. The temperature inside a vehicle can skyrocket in minutes. The temperature can rise from 94 degrees outside the vehicle to over 122 degrees inside the vehicle in just 30 minutes, causing the child to suffer dehydration, heat stroke or suffocation.

Other Dangers for Children: Each year children needlessly die because their heads or necks are caught in power windows, causing suffocation. Children also have a tendency to explore their surroundings. Many children unintentionally lock themselves in the trunk of a vehicle. About 35 to 40 percent of children, ages 14 and under, who accidentally lock themselves in a trunk will die of suffocation. Beware. Keep car keys out of a child's reach, lock all doors, keep rear fold-down seats closed, warn your children about these dangers, and always watch your child.

Blind Person: A person who is blind often walks with a white cane or a trained guide dog. When driving be aware of predestines with a white cane or guide dog. Drivers must always yield the right-of-way to persons who are blind. When a pedestrian is crossing a street or highway guided by a dog or carrying a white cane (or a white cane with a red tip), vehicles must come to a complete stop.

Mobility-Impaired Persons: Drivers must yield the right-of-way to mobility-impaired persons and pedestrians utilizing the assistance of a guide dog or service animal. When a pedestrian is crossing a public street or highway and the pedestrian is using a walker, a crutch, or an orthopedic cane or wheelchair, vehicles must come to a complete stop. Every totally or partially blind person and every deaf person shall have the right to be accompanied by a guide dog or hearing ear dog on a blaze orange leash. The driver of a vehicle approaching a blind, partially blind, deaf or hearing impaired pedestrian carrying a cane predominantly white or chrome metallic in color or using a guide dog shall take all necessary precautions to avoid injury to the pedestrian. Any driver failing to take these precautions is liable in damages for any injury caused the pedestrian.

Vehicle Emergencies

What should you do if your vehicle goes into a canal?

The first thing to do is unbuckle your safety belt and try to roll down the window. If you can't roll down the window, break the window using a center punch. If you can't break your window, as the vehicle is sinking it will fill with water; this will create equal pressure inside and outside of your vehicle and you will be able to push the door open. Since canals are very mucky, it may be difficult to tell which way is up. Blowing bubbles in the water, so you will see the "up" direction.

What should you do in the following emergencies?

Brake Failure: If you don't have an anti-lock braking system, you should pump the brakes several times hard and fast, then downshift to the lowest gear. Hold open the parking brakes, release, and pump. Look for escape routes, and rub against curb or wall to slow down.

ABS Brakes (Anti-lock Braking System): If your car has an ABS, do not pump the brakes. Hold the pedal down with steady pressure. Steer the vehicle around obstacles, as necessary, while continuing to brake.

Blowout: Lift your foot off the gas pedal and do not brake. Wait until the engine has slowed the vehicle to allow you to maintain control of the vehicle. Grip the steering wheel firmly to control the vehicle. Gently and evenly apply pressure to brakes. Check traffic and pull off the road.

Oil pressure light on: The light indicates either that the engine has dangerously low oil pressure or the oil pressure unit that triggers the warning light has failed. Stop the engine immediately and coast the vehicle off the road. Let the vehicle sit for a while, and then check the oil level. Add oil if necessary. If you hear a rapping sound or knocking noise when the engine starts, it's too late. This indicates problems!

Water temperature light: This light indicates overheating. Pull the vehicle off the road. Turn off the engine. Open the hood and allow the vehicle to cool off for 45 min. Remove cap carefully by turning it slowly only halfway to allow the steam to escape before removing cap.

Gas pedal sticks: Apply gentle and even pressure to the brakes. Try to pull up the gas pedal with your foot. If this doesn't work, shift to neutral. Turn on your emergency lights to warn other drivers. Apply your brakes but keep coasting. Search the roadway for a safe place to pull over. Pull off the road cautiously. Turn off the ignition when you get to the side of the road and are safely parked.

Fire in engine: Immediately drive off of road and turn off ignition. Seek shelter about 500 feet away from vehicle. Call the fire department or put out the fire with a blanket only.

Loss of power steering: Ease up on the gas pedal and grip the wheel firmly. Keep the vehicle movement straight ahead and brake gently. If the vehicle is heading off of the road, brake firmly.

What Every Young Driver Should Know

I hope everyone taking this program will never drink and drive, take drugs or receive a traffic citation. Before we conclude this program, think about this: One out of three 16-year-olds will crash their vehicle in their first year of driving and some will die.

Going to school and driving a motor vehicle are very similar. First, you must pass a written test to receive your driver's license or permit. In school, you must take tests to pass a class. In driving, you must study to learn the laws. To become a better student, you must practice to gain experience. To become a better driver, you must practice to gain experience on the road. When taking a test in high school, 98% will equal an "A". The high student can afford to make just one small mistake. However, when driving a motor vehicle, you must receive 100% every day you drive your vehicle. If you make a small mistake when it comes to driving, it can cost you your life. Please drive defensively! Driving takes 100% of your concentration. Don't be distracted.

Distractions

What is considered distracted driving?

Visual - taking your eyes off the road

Manual - taking your hands off the wheel

Cognitive - taking your mind off of what you're doing.

*Texting involves all three types of distractions.

Distractions: Distractions are very hazardous. Putting on makeup, eating, reading a map, changing radio station, or looking at a car collision are all distractions that will affect your driving ability. Distractions lead to 25 to 50 percent of all collisions. Each day, driver inattention is a contributing factor in 4,000 to 8,000 crashes. These crashes cost society between $40 billion and $80 billion dollars each year. The use of cell phones or text messaging when driving is considered very dangerous. Nearly 80% of crashes involve a driver distracted within 3 seconds before the collision. It is reported that approximately 1.6 million crashes are caused each year by drivers talking on cell phones and an additional 390,000 crashes each year involved drivers texting. In 2019, over 3,142 people were killed and 421,000 were injured because of distractions.

Texting while driving is now a primary offense. A primary offense is an act that allows a police officer to pull a vehicle over and give the driver a traffic citation. Primary offenses include but are not limited to tailgating another vehicle, running a red light or stop sign, speeding and front seat adult or minor not wearing a seatbelt and now texting and driving. The law also requires school zones and active work zones to be hands-free areas as in, you're not allowed to pick up your devices while driving in these areas.

Text messaging: 27 trillion each year and over 6 billion messages are sent every day in the U.S.A. Many of these messages are being sent by people driving cars. Texting or using a cell phone while driving, (whether it's hand-held or hand-free) is about 6 times more likely to result in a collision than driving while impaired. It is estimated that when a driver is texting; the driver will take his or her eyes off the road for about 5 seconds. If you are traveling at 55 mph, you will travel 403.3 feet "blind." You may pass a traffic light, run a stop sign, or crash into the vehicle in front of your vehicle. The under-20 age group has the highest proportion of distracted drivers involved in fatal crashes.

The studies have shown that having friends in his or her car can increase a teen's risk of a collision. These studies indicate that when teens drive with multiple friends, those passengers may contribute to crashes by distracting the driver and promoting risky driving behaviors, such as speeding, tailgating, or weaving.

The dangers and possible solutions: When texting, the driver's mind is on the message he or she is reading or composing. This prevents the driver from thinking quickly and delays the driver's reaction time. The best solution is to put your cellular phone on silent mode while driving or, if you're with another passenger, have that person answer your call. If you must answer a call or text, drive off the road to a safe area and make your call or text.

Blind Spots

If you are in back of a truck, stay out of the blind spot. Position your vehicle to the left side of the lane. Stay behind the truck (about 4 seconds) so that the truck driver can see your vehicle in the side mirror. If you can see the truck driver’s face in their side mirrors, then the driver can see you, however, if you cannot see the truck driver’s face in the side mirrors, then they have no idea that you are there driving next to or behind them. The length of the truck will decide your following distance. You need at least one second for each 10 feet of vehicle length. For example, if there is a 40-foot vehicle, you should leave at least 4 seconds between you and the vehicle ahead. When practical pass a truck on the left not the right. A truck's blind spot on the right runs the length of the truck and extends out almost 3 lanes. When passing a truck, tap your horn to alert the truck driver of your intentions. Make sure that you can see the entire front of the truck in your inside rear-view mirror before you pull back into lane. When passing at night, let the truck driver know you are passing by blinking your headlights, providing another vehicle is not approaching in the opposite direction. It takes 3 to 5 seconds longer to pass a truck on a level highway. At an intersection, never try to drive by a truck attempting to make a right turn. A truck needs a wide and open space when turning.

How should I drive when it rains?

In Florida, when driving on roads with speed limits at or above 55 mph and encountering conditions such as rain, smoke, or fog that result in "extreme low visibility," you may use your hazard lights. However, it's important to note that even when it's raining, you still need to have your windshield wipers and headlights turned on.

The most dangerous time to drive is within the first 30 minutes after a rain starts (this includes a misty rainfall), because all the grease and oil that is on the roadway come to the surface. If it is raining or the roadway is wet, slow down and increase your following distance.

To make this very simple, drive below the speed limit. The safest lane of travel during a rain is the middle or right lane, so use these lanes whenever possible. When it rains, wipers and lights must be on. Rain will reduce your ability to see or be seen by other vehicles. Water on the ground can cause your vehicle to hydroplane.

What is Hydroplaning?

Hydroplaning can occur when your tires are riding on top of water and not making contact with the road. The driver can lose control of the vehicle and skidding is likely to occur. Hydroplaning is caused by several factors: speed over 35 mph, bad tires (less than 1/16 of tread), or the amount of water on the road and road surface. Improperly inflated tires and the weight of the vehicle can increase the risk of a skid.

What do you do when your vehicle starts to skid?

Do not panic and do not brake. Take your foot off the gas pedal. Steer the vehicle in the direction you want to go. This maneuver may be repeated several times before control of the vehicle can be obtained. Do not over-steer. Over-steering will often induce a second or third skid in the opposite direction

Fog: Driving in fog is like driving blindfolded. When driving in fog, the best thing to do is to move well off the road and wait for the fog to lift. If this can't be done, the next best options when driving in fog is reduce your speed, following distance and turn your low beams on.

Night Driving

Why is night driving so dangerous? One obvious answer is darkness. Ninety percent of a driver's reaction depends on vision, and vision is severely limited at night. Depth perception, color recognition, and peripheral vision are compromised after sundown. When driving at night, reduce your speed and increase your following distance. It is more difficult to judge other vehicles' speeds and distances at night. Don't overdrive your headlights. You should be able to stop inside the illuminated area. If you're not, you are creating a blind crash area in front of your vehicle.

How do you drive at night?

Driving at night can be difficult because visibility is reduced. The driver will face the glare from oncoming vehicles. What you see during the day will look completely different at night. When driving at night, slow down and increase your following distance. Turn on low beams between the hours of sunset and sunrise. This will aid in other vehicles seeing you better.

What should you do if the approaching vehicle has its high beams on?

Do not flash your high beam headlights at the oncoming vehicle. You can temporarily blind a person for 2 to 5 seconds, depending on the age of the person. You can slow down and look to the right shoulder of the road. Within 500 feet of the oncoming vehicle, switch to low beams. If you are behind another vehicle, switch from high beam to low beams within 300 feet. If a vehicle in your rear is displaying its high beams, slow down and adjust your night.

1. A person under 18 years of age will have to hold a learner's license for 12 months without a traffic conviction.

2. If a person refuses to submit to a blood, breath or urine test, this will result in a license suspension for 1 year for a first refusal and 18 months for any subsequent refusals.

3. It is unlawful for any person under 21 years of age to have in his or her possession an alcoholic beverage.

4. Unlawful speed resulting in a crash is equal to 6 pts. on your license.

5. A total of 12 points within a 12-month period will lead to a 30-day suspension of your license.

6. Seatbelts are designed to lock at an impact speed of 3 to 5mph.

7. The "Move-Over-Law" - On a two-lane roadway, you are required to slow down to a speed that is 20 miles per hour less than the posted speed limit.

8. If you are traveling at a speed of only 20 mph and hit an object, the force of the impact is equivalent to your vehicle plunging off a one-story building.

What is Aggressive Driving?

The definitions of aggressive driving and road rage are as follows: At least two of the following: speeding, unsafe or improper lane change, following too closely, failure to yield right of way, improper passing, failure to obey traffic control devices. The commission of two or more moving violations that is likely to endanger other persons or property, or any single intentional violation that requires a defensive reaction of another driver. Aggressive driving is defined as "the operation of a motor vehicle in a manner that endangers or is likely to endanger persons or property."

Aggressive Driving

Aggressive driving can be caused by long commutes, traffic congestion, and other drivers' behaviors. It can also be caused by your mood, reactions, and ability to deal with stress on and off the road. Examples of aggressive driving behaviors are excessive speed, frequent or unsafe lane changes, failure to signal, and tailgating. Aggressive driving can lead to road rage.

Aggressive Driving vs. Road Rage

What is the difference between aggressive driving and road rage?

When a driver displays any kind of aggression, this is aggressive driving. Frequently, it is used to describe physical assault as a result from disagreements between drivers. A traffic offense or combination of offenses such as speeding, failing to signal intent to change lanes, following too closely, and other forms of negligent or inconsiderate driving is aggressive driving. The common cause of the aggressive driver is traffic congestion with a tough schedule. This driver generally commits several violations in order to make up time. These actions put us at risk. Example- an aggressive driver who uses a roadway shoulder to pass, may cause other drivers to take an evasive action that results in a crash or taking more risks themselves. Then, the offending aggressive driver continues on his way, may be not even realizing what he caused. A major contributor to road congestion is rush hour crashes which are frequently caused by aggressive drivers. There are more vehicles on the road and the number of vehicle miles driven each year has increased. People are busy, time is at a premium and frustration is a result of road congestion.

Aggressive driving is a traffic offense; road rage is a criminal offense.

Road rage: This term has probably been started by the media. This is a criminal offense. When a traffic incident escalates into a serious situation, this occurs. Example- A person reacting angrily over an aggressive driving incident may retaliate with some kind of violence. These acts may range from a physical confrontation to an assault with a motor vehicle or maybe a weapon. Frequently, the incident may have been simple or trivial. Some incidents are intentional acts but not all of them. An intentional act is when a motorist changes from lane to lane to go around other vehicles. An unintentional act is when a motorist abruptly exits from a roadway without proper signaling.

It is an incident in which an angry or impatient motorist or passenger intentionally injures or kills or attempts to injure or kill another motorist, passenger, or pedestrian, in response to a traffic dispute, altercation, or grievance. Hopefully, you will never allow your stress or emotional distress rise to the level of aggressive driving and certainly not to road rage. There are ways to manage your stress so that you do not endanger yourself or others on the road.

Road Rage is an assault with a motor vehicle or other dangerous weapons by the operator or passenger(s) of one motor vehicle on the operator or passenger(s) of another motor vehicle, caused by an incident that occurred on a roadway.

Reckless Driving

Reckless driving occurs when an individual operates a motor vehicle in a dangerous and negligent manner. Driving recklessly is a misdemeanor criminal offense that is punishable by high fines and/or imprisonment and the suspension or revocation of one's driver's license.

Reckless driving can happen when an individual's mental state leads him/her to behave and operate his/her automobile in an irresponsible manner. Even though a driver may be behaving normally and is not in a reckless mental state, if he or she is driving in a way that is unlawful, it can still be considered reckless driving.

Driving reckless often refers exclusively to excessive speeding violations. In many jurisdictions, driving more than 20 miles per hour above the posted speed limit is considered reckless driving. This means that even if a driver is driving straight, using the turn signal, and yielding to traffic, he or she can be pulled over and charged with reckless driving.

Reckless drivers are likely to change lanes frequently, speed, tailgate, and swerve. Studies have shown that reckless drivers are more likely to play music at a level that is audible to other drivers and will use their horns to move other drivers out of the way more often than non-reckless drivers.

You can protect yourself against the threat of reckless drivers in a number of ways. Law enforcers suggest driving in the lane farthest away from the driver in question and reducing your speed so that the driver may pass you. If the driver's recklessness is extreme, pull over until they have passed and alert law enforcement.

316.192 Reckless driving

• 1. Any person who drives any vehicle in willful or wanton disregard for the safety of persons or property is guilty of reckless driving.
  2. Fleeing a law enforcement officer in a motor vehicle is reckless driving per se.

1. Except as provided in subsection (3), any person convicted of reckless driving shall be punished:
   1. Upon a first conviction, by imprisonment for a period of not more than 90 days or by fine of not less than $25 nor more than $500, or by both such fine and imprisonment.
   2. On a second or subsequent conviction, by imprisonment for not more than 6 months or by a fine of not less than $50 nor more than $1,000, or by both such fine and imprisonment.
2. Any person:
   1. Who is in violation of subsection (1);
   2. Who operates a vehicle; and
   3. Who, by reason of such operation, causes:
      1. Damage to the property or person of another commits a misdemeanor of the first degree, punishable as provided in s. 775.082 or s. 775.083.
      2. Serious bodily injury to another commits a felony of the third degree, punishable as provided in s. 775.082, s. 775.083, or s. 775.084. The term "serious bodily injury" means an injury to another person, which consists of a physical condition that creates a substantial risk of death, serious personal disfigurement, or protracted loss or impairment of the function of any bodily member or organ.
3. Notwithstanding any other provision of this section, $5 shall be added to a fine imposed pursuant to this section. The clerk shall remit the $5 to the Department of Revenue for deposit in the Emergency Medical Services Trust Fund.
4. In addition to any other penalty provided under this section, if the court has reasonable cause to believe that the use of alcohol, chemical substances set forth in s. 877.111, or substances controlled under chapter 893 contributed to a violation of this section, the court shall direct the person so convicted to complete a DUI program substance abuse education course and evaluation as provided in s. 316.193(5) within a reasonable period of time specified by the court. If the DUI program conducting such course and evaluation refers the person to an authorized substance abuse treatment provider for substance abuse evaluation and treatment, the directive of the court requiring completion of such course, evaluation, and treatment shall be enforced as provided in s. 322.245. The referral to treatment resulting from the DUI program evaluation may not be waived without a supporting independent psychosocial evaluation conducted by an authorized substance abuse treatment provider, appointed by the court, which shall have access to the DUI program psychosocial evaluation before the independent psychosocial evaluation is conducted. The court shall review the results and recommendations of both evaluations before determining the request for waiver. The offender shall bear the full cost of this procedure. If a person directed to a DUI program substance abuse education course and evaluation or referred to treatment under this subsection fails to report for or complete such course, evaluation, or treatment, the DUI program shall notify the court and the department of the failure. Upon receipt of such notice, the department shall cancel the person's driving privilege, notwithstanding the terms of the court order or any suspension or revocation of the driving privilege. The department may reinstate the driving privilege upon verification from the DUI program that the education, evaluation, and treatment are completed. The department may temporarily reinstate the driving privilege on a restricted basis upon verification that the offender is currently participating in treatment and has completed the DUI education course and evaluation requirement. If the DUI program notifies the department of the second failure to complete treatment, the department shall reinstate the driving privilege only after notice of successful completion of treatment from the DUI program.

Florida Traffic Laws: Careless and Reckless Driving Citations

Careless driving and reckless driving are two very similar traffic violations that occur on Florida state roadways. Both infractions indicate that a vehicle is being operated in an irresponsible fashion that could potentially cause harm to others. They diverge, however, because careless driving encompasses drivers who appear to be unaware of their bad driving, and reckless driving indicates that the motor vehicle operator is willfully acting to drive in such a manner as to cause damage to property, physical injury or death. Both tickets can be issued in addition to other infractions such as speeding or traffic light violations, and unfortunately, these are common charges against drivers whose actions cannot be easily categorized into another existing Florida statute.

What are the causes of aggressive driving?

The mad hatter in Alice in Wonderland said, "I'm late I'm late for a very important date no time to say hello goodbye I'm Late I'm Late I'm late". In today's society this is an understatement. Our lifestyle is moving at a very fast pace. Everyone is in a rush to get where they are going. Even the slightest delay can cause us to behave in an aggressive manner. When driving on the road with commuter traffic and you are running late, the vehicles on the road become obstacles that you must overcome to reach your destination. Sharing the road with other vehicles is now obsolete. Getting to your destination is now your objective and sharing the road is now putting you in jeopardy.

When you drive aggressively, many factors are taking place psychologically and are usually difficult to control. Many drivers are naturally prone to territoriality and tend to think that they own the space they are in. The person that is driving may feel threatened by another vehicle entering their domain and may respond aggressively or out of an instinct of self-protection.

When behind the wheel of a vehicle, some people become a "Jekyll and Hyde". They suddenly develop a power that is never shown at home or a work. Normal courtesy and sharing the road become a thing of the past and aggressiveness takes its place.

In aggressive driving, man's competitive instinct can become a factor in driving. An aggressive driver will respond to being overtaken by another vehicle as a challenge. In a situation like this, it will often lead to showing off and racing on the roadway. Each driver will race and take risks overtaking maneuvers to get where they are going first. However, the driver doesn't realize the dangers to themselves and others on the road. Only the thrill of victory in a make believe competitive race and getting there first is what's on your mind.

More serious is the driver that will threaten or punish another driver for a driving behavior which displeases him. Example: The driver is driving too slow, fails to signal and accidently cuts you off. An aggressive driver will retaliate. He may tailgate the other driver, brake suddenly, block the passing lane, using headlights, and shouting or making obscene gestures to the other driver. If both drivers experience aggressive behavior, it can often lead to the death of another driver.

All these behaviors are exacerbated by the stress and pressures of the fast moving pass of today's society. Traffic on the road, road congestion and road construction will lead to a feeling of frustration and may lead to aggressive driving. The aggressive driver lacks the respect of other drivers. They will use the shoulder of the road to pass, change lanes without signaling and prevent other vehicles from entering their lane of traffic. An aggressive driver will show his anger at a slow moving driver or if he feels a traffic light is taking too long to change.

What are the causes of aggressive driving?

People who are experiencing aggressive/emotional or angry feelings before getting into their car are more likely to continue this behavior behind the wheel. Moreover, the use of alcohol and drugs may also increase the likelihood of aggressive driving.

Aggressive driving is the operation of a motor vehicle in a manner that endangers or is likely to endanger persons or property. Persons doing any of the following may be committing acts of aggressive driving:

• Speeding
• Running red lights and/or stop signs
• Tailgating
• Passing on the shoulder of the road
• Cutting off another vehicle
• Slamming on brakes in front of a tailgater
• Improper hand or facial gestures at other drivers
• Yelling or swearing at other drivers
• Repeatedly honking the horn
• Repeatedly flashing headlights
• Excessive lane changing - changing lanes without reasonable cause
• Improper passing - failing to signal intent, using an emergency lane to pass, or passing on the shoulder

How to Avoid Aggressive Behaviors, Which are Likely to Provoke Aggression

Gestures: Other drivers are irritated by offensive and obscene gestures. Misinterpretation of a gesture by another driver could happen. Car phones- Your phone could become a distraction. People who use car phones are looked upon as poor drivers and present a traffic hazard. Motorists who are talking on the phone can irritate aggressive drivers. Displays- Do not display a slogan or bumper sticker that may be considered offensive.

Eye Contact: Do not make eye contact if a motorist tries to pick a fight. Do not acknowledge the other motorist and get out of the way. Do not go home if a driver follows you. Go to a location like a police station to get help. Aggressive tailgating- Riding the bumper of a vehicle in front of you is unsafe and annoying. Aggressive horn use- It is illegal to lean on a horn if you are angry. Aggressive headlight use- It is rude and unsafe to flash headlights if irritated.

Lane blocking: On multiple lane highways, do not block the passing lane. Vehicles should be able to pass you. Tailgating- There should be a safe distance between your vehicle and the one in front of you. Signal use- Change lanes using your signal and make sure you do not cut off another driver when changing lanes. Remember to turn your signal off after changing lanes or turning. Horn use- Use the horn sparingly. Noise contributes to stress. If you are not making a right turn, avoid the right lane.

Parking: Do not take up more than one parking space. If you park in a space reserved for the disabled, you must be disabled. Be careful when opening your car door and do not hit the car next to you. Do not tap the vehicles in front or in back of yours when parallel parking. Be cautious when backing out of a parking space.

Backing Up: Always check behind your car. Pedestrians and small children can be hidden from your view. Use your outside mirrors to help your vision. Do not back into busy streets, highways and pedestrian crosswalks. Keep your foot firmly on the brake before shifting into reverse. Back up slowly. When backing up, look over each shoulder to view out the rear windows. Use your outside mirrors to help your vision.

Headlight use: Headlights should be kept on low beam except if lighting is poor. If you are approaching a vehicle from the rear, or when another vehicle is passing you, dim your high beams for oncoming traffic. Merging- Move out of the right hand acceleration lane of a highway when traffic allows to permit vehicles easier access from on-ramps. Blocking traffic- When driving a slow moving vehicle, when possible, pull over to permit traffic to pass you.

The Speed Factor

Speed is a primary factor in aggressive driving behavior - and also a factor in nearly one-third of all fatal crashes. The probability of death and debilitating injury grows with impacts at higher speeds - doubling for every 10 mph over 50 mph that a vehicle travels.

The Federal Highway Administration found that, on average, 70 percent of motorists exceed the posted speed limits.

Speeding is a habitual driver behavior. Although drivers name speeding as dangerous to their safety, most still speed.

Why People Speed

• They're in a hurry.
• They're inattentive to their driving.
• They don't take traffic laws seriously; they don't think the laws apply to them.
• They don't view their driving behavior as dangerous.
• They don't expect to get caught.
• Some or all of the above.

Driving slowly in the left lane: If you are in the left lane and someone wants to pass, move over and let them pass. You may be "in the right" because you are traveling at the speed limit, but you may also be putting yourself in danger by making drivers behind you angry. In many states and provinces, the law requires you to travel in the right lane and use the far left lane only for passing. Be courteous and move over and let the other drivers pass.

Excessive lane changing: When you are driving on the road many situations will arise that force you to need to switch lanes. This can include a driver that is going too slow, the need to move over to turn on a street, or lane changing in order to avoid an object on the road. When you do change lanes, it is important that you look around to make sure you can do it safely. You should put on your blinker as well to notify other drivers that you are changing lanes.

While driving on the road, changing lanes too often can become dangerous. Some drivers may change lanes incessantly while on the freeway, weaving in and out of cars in an effort to get to their destination faster. Changing lanes too often may cause the driver to fail to properly check his or her lane and a collision may occur. Lane changing should be done at the discretion of the driver. If an officer believes that you have changed lanes too often without need, you can be issued a traffic citation.

Cutting off a driver: When you merge, make sure you have enough room. Use your turn signal to show your intentions before making a move. If you make a mistake and cut off, another driver, try to apologize to the other driver with an appropriate gesture. If another driver cuts you off, slow down and give them room to merge into your lane.

Improper Passing: Florida statute 316.083 is referred to as overtaking and passing a vehicle. The statute says:

1. The driver of a vehicle overtaking another vehicle proceeding in the same direction shall give an appropriate signal as provided for in F.S. 316.156, shall pass to the left thereof at a safe distance, and shall not again drive to the right side of the roadway until safely clear of the overtaken vehicle. The driver of a vehicle overtaking a bicycle or other non-motorized vehicle must pass the bicycle or other non-motorized vehicle at a safe distance of not less than 3 feet between the vehicle and the bicycle or other non-motorized vehicle.
2. Except when overtaking and passing on the right is permitted, the driver of an overtaken vehicle shall give way to the right in favor of the overtaking vehicle, on audible signal or upon the visible blinking of the headlamps of the overtaking vehicle if such overtaking is being attempted at nighttime, and shall not increase the speed of his or her vehicle until completely passed by the overtaking vehicle.

The penalty for a violation of this statute, improper passing, is a maximum fine of $500.00, points (4 if an accident, -3 in non-accident scenarios), and possible court ordered traffic school.

The penalty for a violation of this statute is a maximum fine of $500.00, 4 points on your driver's license if there is a collision, 3 points on your driver's license if there is no collision, and possible Court ordered traffic school. Additionally, there may be substantial insurance increases and other ramifications.

Improper lane changes: A driver changes lanes without there being a clear open path. This citation can be issued by law enforcement as an action that leads to an accident or in situations where no accident has occurred at all.

1. No vehicle shall be driven to the left side of the center of the roadway in overtaking and passing another vehicle proceeding in the same direction, unless authorized by the provisions of this chapter and unless such left side is clearly visible and is free of oncoming traffic for a sufficient distance ahead. In every event, the overtaking vehicle must return to an authorized lane of travel as soon as practicable and, in the event the passing movement involves the use of a lane authorized for vehicles approaching from the opposite direction, before coming within 200 feet of any approaching vehicle.
2. No vehicle shall be driven from a direct course in any lane on any highway until the driver has determined that the vehicle is not being approached or passed by any other vehicle in the lane or on the side to which the driver desires to move. It needs to be completely made with safety and without interfering with the safe operation of any vehicle approaching from the same direction.

Tailgating: Following a vehicle too closely is called "tailgating". Tailgating is an aggressive driving behavior that is easily mistaken for road rage. Tailgating is dangerous not just because it is a leading cause of road rage, but also because it impairs both drivers' ability to safely react to other hazards on the road. A good driver must leave a safe gap between their vehicle and the one in front of them. This safe gap is eliminated when tailgating occurs; meaning that if the car in front was forced to suddenly apply their breaks, a collision would most likely occur. It seems as if everyone is in a hurry and they may not even realize they are engaging in the dangerous behavior of tailgating. However, tailgating, whether done intentionally or unintentionally, increases a person's risk of being in a car collision.

Following too closely contributes to approximately one third of all Florida motor vehicle collisions. The reason why tailgating is so dangerous is that it reduces:

• Reaction time: The driver of the second vehicle will have a reduced reaction time.
• Vision: The driver of the following car will not be able to see what is ahead of the first car when following too closely.
• Stopping time: When tailgating, the vehicle in the rear may not have enough time to come to a complete stop without hitting the vehicle ahead.
• Tailgating is the practice of driving on a road too close to a frontward vehicle, at a distance which does not guarantee that stopping to avoid collision is possible. It is driving so closely behind another vehicle, that one cannot stop or swerve with ease in an emergency.

Florida Statute 316.0895 states as follows:

1. The driver of a motor vehicle shall not follow another vehicle more closely than is reasonable and prudent, having due regard for the speed of such vehicles and the traffic upon, and the condition of, the highway.
2. It is unlawful for the driver of any motor truck, motor truck drawing another vehicle, or vehicle towing another vehicle or trailer, when traveling upon a roadway outside of a business or residence district, to follow within 300 feet of another motor truck, motor truck drawing another vehicle, or vehicle towing another vehicle or trailer. The provisions of this subsection shall not be construed to prevent overtaking and passing nor shall the same apply upon any lane specially designated for use by motor trucks or other slow-moving vehicles.

316.0895 Following too closely

1. The driver of a motor vehicle shall not follow another vehicle more closely than is reasonable and prudent, having due regard for the speed of such vehicles and the traffic upon, and the condition of, the highway.
2. It is unlawful for the driver of any motor truck, motor truck drawing another vehicle, or vehicle towing another vehicle or trailer, when traveling upon a roadway outside of a business or residence district, to follow within 300 feet of another motor truck, motor truck drawing another vehicle, or vehicle towing another vehicle or trailer. The provisions of this subsection shall not be construed to prevent overtaking and passing nor shall the same apply upon any lane specially designated for use by motor trucks or other slow-moving vehicles.
3. Motor vehicles being driven upon any roadway outside of a business or residence district in a caravan or motorcade, whether or not towing other vehicles, shall be so operated as to allow sufficient space between each such vehicle or combination of vehicles as to enable any other vehicle to enter and occupy such space without danger. This provision shall not apply to funeral processions.
4. A violation of this section is a noncriminal traffic infraction, punishable as a moving violation as provided in chapter 318.

What is an appropriate driver attitude?

Always be a courteous driver and remember that even the best drivers sometimes make mistakes. An appropriate attitude is being knowledgeable and following the rules of the road. It is avoiding risks, distractions and stress. It is keeping your vehicle maintained. It is learning how to handle difficult driving situations.

Dealing with Emotional Distress

As a driver, you must learn to deal with everyday stress that can affect your driving skills. Try to avoid driving if you're very upset. Rush-hour traffic, collisions, running late for work, money and family problems, stress on the job, or countless other problems, can affect your ability to drive a vehicle in a safe manner.

Always know your routes and exits before going on a trip; getting lost can add to your stress while driving. Plan your trip; avoid rush hour traffic when possible. Make sure that your vehicle is properly maintained with a clean windshield. Be comfortably seated and use air-conditioning if necessary.

If you encounter a problem on the road, such as an aggressive driver, think before you take any action. Count to ten or listen to soft music to calm yourself down. Do not make obscene gestures if you do not like the way another person is driving. Do not stop to confront another driver; stay in your vehicle. If another motorist is harassing you, try to drive away.

Avoid aggressive drivers. Aggressive driving is a serious problem which is responsible for many traffic accidents and fatalities. It is to your benefit to avoid aggressive drivers and potentially dangerous situations. If you encounter an angry or aggressive motorist:

• Do not retaliate or in any way engage the other driver. Get out of the way.
• Do not make eye contact.
• Keep your doors locked and your windows up.
• Keep enough space between you and the vehicle in front of you to pull out from behind.
• Do not underestimate the other driver's potential for aggression.
• Allow plenty of time for the trip, listen to soothing music, improve the comfort in your vehicle, and understand that you cannot control the traffic, only your reaction to it. In the end, we may very well discover that personal frustration, anger, and impatience may be the most dangerous "drugs" on the highway.
• Be polite and courteous, even if the other driver is not. Avoid all conflict if possible. If another driver challenges you, take a deep breath and move out of the way. Never underestimate the other driver's capacity for mayhem.
• When entering traffic or changing lanes, make sure that you have enough room.
• Make sure you have established a safe following distance between your vehicle and the one in front of you. Don't make aggressive hand gestures to the other drivers when they offend you with their driving.
• Signal when turning or changing lanes.
• Control your anger; remember it takes two to start a fight.
• Avoid prolonged eye contact with the bad or angry driver.
• Get help. Call police on your cell phone or go to a public telephone or place. Don't pull to the side of the road.
• Forget about winning. No one wins in a highway crash.
• Put yourself in the other driver's shoes. They may be driving that way because of an actual emergency!

Anyone can become an aggressive driver. Don't let stress and frustration get the best of you while driving.

• Be patient and courteous.
• Do not drive when angry, overtired, or upset.
• Allow extra time to get to your destination.
• When possible, change your schedule to avoid congestion.
• Listen to relaxing music or books on tape.
• Give other drivers the benefit of the doubt - all drivers make mistakes.
• Avoid all conflict, even if you are in the right.

A Contagious Problem

Aggressive driving is highly communicable. When you see another driver, driving recklessly on the road, it can ignite your temper and convince you that you too, can drive with impunity.

If you react to an aggressive driver, you become part of the problem. Unsafe behavior has a domino effect, passing from car-to-car down the road.

Additionally, when you drive aggressively with children in the vehicle, you teach them to drive like you do, even before they have a driver's license. Kids learn by example. They're always watching and learning.

Aggressive Driving Review

1. Tailgating: Following a vehicle too closely is called "tailgating".
2. Aggressive Driving: The combination of two or more moving violations that is likely to endanger other persons or property, or any single intentional violation that requires a defensive reaction of another driver.
3. Road Rage: An assault with a motor vehicle or other dangerous weapons by the operator or passenger(s) of one motor vehicle on the operator or passenger(s) of another motor vehicle caused by an incident that occurred on a roadway.
4. The penalty for a violation of this statute of improper passing is a maximum fine of $500.00, points (4 if an accident, 3 in non-accident scenarios), and possible court ordered traffic school.
5. The Federal Highway Administration found that on average, 70 percent of motorists exceed the posted speed limits.
6. The use of alcohol and drugs may also increase the likelihood of aggressive driving.
7. Children learn about aggressive driving from their parents.
8. Human beings are naturally prone to territoriality and have the tendency to view their vehicle as an extension of their personal domain.
9. Man's natural competitive instinct can also be a factor in aggressive driving.
10. Frustrating situations that impede or prevent some form of ongoing goal-directed behavior are believed to act as a catalyst for aggressive behavior.

Signs, Signals, and Road Marking

(Including interpretation of centerlines, crosswalks, bike lanes, turn lanes, flashing lights

and proper responses to phases of traffic signals, stop and yield signs)

Reflectors on the ground

What does red mean? It means you're on the wrong side of road.

What does blue mean?There is a fire hydrant.

What Do the Following Signals Mean?

Red Light: You must come to a complete full stop. You must stop before entering the intersection or crosswalk. If a right turn is permitted on red, you must yield to pedestrians and all oncoming traffic. The Red light will always appear on top of the signal light.

Yellow Light: Stop if you can. The light is going to turn red.

Green Light: Proceed with caution. Before going, look left, right, and left again. Note red light runners and last minute turns.

Flashing Red Light: Stop, it is the same principle as the stop sign.

Flashing Yellow Light: Proceed with caution.

Turning Arrow: Traffic will move in the direction of the arrow. Watch for turn signs. No turn on red signal.

What do you do when a traffic signal malfunctions?

Handle it as a 4 way stop sign. Go when safe.

Proper response to phase of traffic signal: A phase is typically made up of three intervals: green, yellow, and all red. A phase will progress through all its intervals before moving to the next phase in the cycle.

As you approach a set of traffic lights you should always be ready to stop. Never speed up to try and reach a green light before it chances. Always scan the road ahead. If you notice the light has been green for a while, as you approach the intersection, be ready to stop. Red - stop and wait at the stop line. Red and amber - stop and wait. Green - go if the way ahead is clear. Amber - stop, unless you've already crossed the stop line.

Stop Sign

A stop sign is eight-sided and has a red background with white letters. It means you must come to a complete stop. Stop at the stop line if it is marked on the pavement. If there is no stop line, stop at the crosswalk.

Yield Sign

A yield sign calls on the driver to do the following: Slow down, defer to oncoming or intersecting traffic, stop when necessary, proceed when safe, and remain aware of oncoming vehicles.

Bike Lane

Bike lanes are used to create on-street, separated travel facilities for bicyclists. They can provide safety benefits to road users though separate operational space for safe motorist overtaking of bicyclists, particularly in narrow, congested areas. Bike lane presence also visually narrows the roadway or motor vehicle travel lanes to encourage lower motor vehicle speeds.

Crosswalk

A marked part of a road where pedestrians have right of way to cross. A pedestrian crossing or crosswalk is a place designated for pedestrians to cross a road. Crosswalks are designed to keep pedestrians together where they can be seen by motorists, and where they can cross most safely across the flow of vehicular traffic.

Signs Come in Many Shapes

	Octagon: Exclusively for stop signs
	Horizontal Rectangle: Generally for guide signs
	Pennant: Advance warning of no passing zones
	Triangle: Exclusively for yield signs
	Diamond: Exclusively to warn of existing or possible hazards on roadways or adjacent areas
	Vertical Rectangle: Generally for regulatory signs
	Pentagon: School advance and school crossing signs
	Round: Railroad advance warning signs
	Cross buck: Railroad crossing

Color of Signs

	RED signs are regulatory signs and must be obeyed. They include STOP, YIELD, DO NOT ENTER or WRONG WAY.
	BLACK and WHITE signs are regulatory signs They include Speed limits, restriction & movement.
	Yellow is used for warning signs. These signs tell you of road conditions and dangers ahead - school zones, no passing zones, and railroad crossings.
	ORANGE also is used for warning signs. These signs alert you to possible dangers ahead due to construction and maintenance projects.
	GREEN is used for guide signs. Shows direction and distance to various locations.
	BLUE also is used for guide signs. These signs tell you about services along the roadway- Phone, Hospital, Library, Gas, Food and Lodging.
	BROWN is used for parks and recreation signs. Edison Home 3 miles, National Park Next Left.
	YELLOW-GREEN also is used for warning signs. These signs alert you to pedestrian crossings and school zones.

Divided Highway Ahead	Divided Highway Ends	Round about
Warn of a sharp curve in the road	Narrow Bridge	Slippery When Wet
Sharp Right Turn	Reduction of Lanes	Double Curve
Curve Right	Two Way Ahead	Road entering from the right
Stop sign ahead	Yield sign ahead	Traffic signal ahead
Railroad crossing ahead	Cross Road	Merging Traffic
Low Clearance	Hill/Downgrade	Animal Crossing
Winding Road	School Crossing	Must turn left or right

Wrong Way, do not drive past	Do Not Enter, do not drive past	Stop sign, must come to a complete stop	Yield, proceed with caution
Gas	Handicap Parking	Hospital	Rest area

No U-turn	No right-turn	No left-turn
Keep to the right of the upcoming median lane may turn left or continue straight	At the intersection ahead traffic in the left lane must turn left and adjoining of travel	The center lane is shared for left turns in both directions
Lanes are reserved for buses or car-pool vehicles during rush hour traffic	You may travel only in the direction indicated	Right turn only

How can you tell if the exit is on left or right side?

On the exit sign the rectangle will be on the side that you exit.

You are late for an appointment. Can you cross a double yellow line to make a U-Turn?

Yes! You can make a U-Turn anywhere in the state of Florida providing there is no sign prohibiting the turn and it is safe to proceed.

Road Markings

Center Lane Only - Shared for left turns in both directions of travel. It is not for passing. You may only drive for 200 feet in the center left turn lane.

Yellow Lines - Separate lanes of traffic moving in opposite directions.

Where is the only place on a divided highway that a solid yellow line appears by itself?

It appears on the left side of road.

Single White Lines - Separate lanes of traffic moving in the same direction.

Solid or Double Lines - No passing permitted.

Restricted Lane - Special lane marking.

Broken Line - Passing is permitted.

Divided Road or Safety Zone - No vehicle shall drive in or through a divided road or safety zone; it is officially set apart within a roadway exclusively for pedestrians.

Vulnerable Road Users

The Vulnerable Road User Law: This law is designed for pedestrians, including people engaged in work on highways, and people lawfully on the road riding bicycles, motorcycles, scooters, mopeds or animals, or operating farm equipment, skateboards, in-line skates, horse-drawn carriages, electric personal-assistive mobility devices or wheelchairs. They are considered vulnerable because they are not protected by an enclosed vehicle and its safety features such as seat belts or air bags. They are smaller and less visible to other road users, and this increases their vulnerability.

A group of road users can be defined as 'vulnerable' in many ways, such as by the amount of protection in traffic (pedestrians and cyclists) or by the amount of task capability (the young, the elderly and the disabled are all VRU's.

A pedestrian, including those persons actually engaged in work upon a highway, or in work upon a highway, or in work upon utility facilities along a highway, or engaged in the provision of emergency services within the right-of-way; or a person riding an animal; or a person lawfully operating any of the following on a public right-of-way, crosswalk, or shoulder of the highway:

1. A bicycle;
2. A farm tractor or similar vehicle designed primarily for farm use;
3. A skateboard;
4. Roller skates;
5. In-line skates;
6. A scooter;
7. A moped;
8. Motorcyclists;
9. Horse-drawn carriage drivers;
10. A a person on an electric personal assistive mobility device;
11. A person in a wheelchair; or
12. Children.

What are the Characteristics and Environments of Each Category of Vulnerable Road Users?

(i.e. pedestrian, cyclists and especially vulnerable groups (Children, Elderly People, and the Disabled)

Pedestrian and Cyclists

The areas of pedestrian, bicyclist, and motorcyclist safety are major challenges in Florida. A major factor driving the relatively high fatality rates among these road user groups in Florida is a climate which is conducive to walking, cycling and motorcycling in all seasons.

Alcohol use has been identified as a known or possible factor in roughly half of fatal pedestrian and bicyclist crashes. Fatal pedestrian crashes commonly involve mid-block crossings, away from the opportunities for controlled crossings afforded by traffic signals (or stop signs). Provision of raised medians where feasible is often a countermeasure for this problem. Over half of both fatal pedestrian and fatal bicyclist crashes occur under dark conditions.

Children: Children have fewer capabilities than adults because of their developmental immaturity and lack of experience.

• One-third less peripheral vision
• Less accuracy in judging distance and speed
• Difficulty localizing the direction of sounds
• Overconfidence
• Inability to read or comprehend traffic signals and warning signs
• Unpredictable or impulsive actions
• Lack of familiarity with traffic patterns and expectations
• Trust that others will protect them
• Inability to understand complex situations

Many children have not yet learned to read. Symbol-based pedestrian signals might be easier for them to understand than signals that contain words.

Elderly People: The aging process frequently causes a general deterioration of physical, cognitive, and sensory abilities.

• Vision problems, such as degraded acuity, poor central vision, and reduced ability to scan the environment
• Reduced range of joint motion
• Reduced ability to detect, localize, and differentiate sounds
• Limited attention span, memory, and cognitive abilities
• Reduced endurance
• Reduced tolerance for extreme temperature and environments
• Decreased agility, balance, and stability
• Inability to quickly avoid dangerous situations
• Excessive trust that fellow drivers will obey traffic rules
• Slower reflexes
• Impaired judgment, confidence, and decision-making abilities

Older people tend to move more slowly than other pedestrians. They require more time to cross streets than other sidewalk users. The ambulation of older adults is also affected by their lack of strength. Traveling over changes in level, such as high curbs, can be difficult or impossible for older adults. Their fears are confirmed by statistics indicating that older pedestrians appear to be at increased risk for crime and crashes at places with no sidewalks, sidewalks on only one side, and places with no street lighting. Older people would benefit from accessible paths that are well lit and policed

Disabled:

• Difficulty negotiating steep grades
• Difficulty negotiating steep cross-slopes
• Decreased stability
• Slower walking speed
• Reduced endurance
• Inability to react quickly to dangerous situations
• Reduced floor reach

People with mobility impairments include those who use wheelchairs, crutches, canes, walkers, orthotics, and prosthetic limbs. There are many people with mobility impairments who do not use assistive devices. Characteristics common to people with mobility limitations include substantially altered space requirements to accommodate assistive device use, difficulty negotiating soft surfaces, and difficulty negotiating surfaces that are not level.

Wheelchair and scooter users often travel much faster than walking pedestrians, especially on level surfaces or downgrades. They can be much slower when traveling uphill. In addition, their stability and control can be affected by surfaces with cross-slopes, grades, or rough terrain. Wheelchair and scooter users require a wider path of travel than ambulatory pedestrians. Sufficient passing space should be provided to allow wheelchair users to pass one another and to turn around. Cross-slopes that change very rapidly cause additional problems for wheelchair users.

Which Laws are Implemented for the Safety of Vulnerable Road Users?

What are the provisions for each group? (pedestrians, cyclists, etc.)

The elderly, disabled person and children will have faced most of their dangers while crossing an intersection. It is imperative that people cross at the green and not jay walk.

Bicycle Helmet Laws

If you are under 16 years old, you must wear a properly fitted bicycle helmet that meets national standards. This also applies to child passengers riding in a trailer or semitrailer attached to the bicycle.

The principle of confidence is excluded by the principle of safe driving in case of crashes with children, disabled and elderly people, due to their unpredictable impulses and ignorance of regulations, which demands increased care and diligence by the drivers.

Florida law states:

• Children 5 years old or younger must be secured in a federally approved child restraint system.
• Children 3 years old and younger must use a separate car-seat or the vehicle's built-in child seat.
• Children 4 to 5 years old must sit in either a separate car seat, a built in child seat or a seat belt, depending on the child's height and weight.

The state of Florida punishes adults who leave children under 6 years old unattended in a motor vehicle, whether the vehicle is running or not.

• If the vehicle is running and the child's health is in danger, you can be fined $50–$500 by leaving a child unattended for any period of time.
• If the vehicle is not running and the child is not in any danger, you may only leave your child unattended for up to 15 minutes or risk being fined up to $100.
• All motor vehicles in Florida must have 2 headlights in good working order that shine a white light. The headlights must not be covered or altered in any way.
• You must turn your car headlights on between the hours of sunset and sunrise, or when visibility is insufficient due to lighting or weather conditions. Failure to use approved headlights could result in being cited for a moving violation.

Physical Environment of VRU and How It Relates to Safety

The physical environment of vulnerable road users is heterogeneous and varies according to the geographical location as well as to the amount of concern generated in the local communities. Most inter-urban roads, priority has remained with the car. Sidewalks are most often not equipped to suit the needs of pedestrians or cyclists. Sidewalks for pedestrians are seldom provided outside the densest part of the built-up area, except in some very new schemes aimed at warning drivers that they need to be more aware of local traffic and of the need to reduce speed immediately. Sidewalks are often too narrow to accommodate wheelchairs. Blind people have great difficulty in finding the right and obstacle-free route to the destination. Uneven surfacing causes problems for all the vulnerable road users, especially for the elderly and disabled persons. During the rainy season, there is a problem with slippery roads and streets which create additional hazards for pedestrians and cyclists, with increased risk of skidding. A cyclist requires a consistent network on which they can move with adequate comfort and protection. Width of bike lanes should be sufficient to accommodate actual bicycle flows and regularly maintained. At the crossing points between cycle and cars adequate facilities should be provided to ensure safe maneuvering for cyclists and without getting into conflicts with motor vehicles. Proper street lighting is as much of a need for cyclists as for pedestrians; at the crossing points between cyclist and motorist, and at road junctions, adequate facilities should be provided to ensure safe maneuvering for cyclists and without getting into conflicts with motorist road users.

Quantitative and Qualitative Statistics for the US and FL for the Following

(Fatal crashes by road user type, fatality rates by age group, & fatalities by user type and age group)

For the first time in five years, the annual number of pedestrian deaths climbed. NHTSA said over 6,500 pedestrians died in 2019, a 4 percent increase from the 4,109 killed in 2018. An estimated 70,000 or more were injured.

Florida was the state with the highest rate of pedestrian deaths, with 2.58 occurring per 100,000 residents.

Florida 2019, there were 143 cyclist traffic fatalities and over 6,636 injuries. In 2019 the United States there were 846 cyclists were killed and an additional 49,000 were injured in motor vehicle traffic crashes. Cyclist deaths accounted for 2 percent of all motor vehicle traffic fatalities. Cyclists ages 45 to 54 had the highest fatality rate (3.93) based on population. The highest injury rate (321) occurred in the 10-to-15 age group.

Children 15 and younger accounted for 9 percent of all cyclists killed. They were 20 percent of all those injured in traffic crashes in 2019. Cyclists ages 45 to 54 were 24 percent of those killed and 14 percent of those injured in that year.

Older pedestrians (age 65+) accounted for 19 percent (826) of all pedestrian fatalities and approximately 11 percent (8,000) of all pedestrians injured in 2019. In 2019, almost one-fifth (19%) of all children between the ages of 5 and 9 who were killed in traffic crashes were pedestrians. Children age 15 and younger accounted for 7 percent of the pedestrian fatalities in 2019 and 23 percent of all pedestrians injured in traffic crashes.

Florida is the most dangerous state in the U.S. for pedestrians. Bicycling fatalities are higher in Florida than any other state. Pedestrians account for 27% of traffic fatalities in major U.S. cities. The four most dangerous large metropolitan areas in the U.S. for pedestrians are Orlando-Kissimmee, Tampa-St. Petersburg-Clearwater, Jacksonville, and Miami. Four Florida cities are the most unsafe in our whole country. Deaths and injuries to bicycle riders spiked upward in the U.S. from 2018 to 2019 according to the U.S. D.O.T. Bicycle deaths increased 9%, pedestrian deaths increased 3%, and motor vehicle deaths decreased by 7,500.

Driver's Responsibility of Protecting VRU's and Safe Driving Techniques as they Relate to VRU's

Traditional driver training concentrates largely on the skills required to pass the driving test. But an integral part of the process of learning to drive should be how to react safely to other road users, including the most vulnerable.

Drivers must always yield the right-of-way to persons who are blind. If a pedestrian is crossing a street or highway guided by a dog or carrying a white cane (or white cane with a red tip), vehicles must come to a complete stop.

Drivers should always be attentive to pedestrians; especially Florida's youngest crossing the street. Small children may dart into traffic or simply assume that a driver sees them if the child sees the car (assuming the child looked at all!). When traveling through a school area, drivers should anticipate pedestrians and be prepared to stop at crossings, taking extra care during periods of reduced visibility such as rain, fog, low light or sun glare.

There are more school crossings than crossing guards. Be alert for pedestrians crossing from either intersection corner when turning left or right, and be attentive to pedestrians crossing midblock. Drivers should always avoid in-vehicle distractions and of course, abide by the speed limit, especially in a school speed zone.

Drivers stop before entering the crosswalk. If a crossing guard is entering or standing in the roadway, avoid stopping in the crosswalk to keep it accessible and unimpeded for pedestrians. The crosswalk guides children to cross in the most direct manner and provides guidance for people with low vision.

Scanning the road: The driver should continuously scan the road for possible dangers. Keep alert in school zones and residential areas. Maintain the proper speed. Drivers must slow down and give way to pedestrians on crossings and watch out for elderly people, disabled and children who may misjudge traffic. Don't speed, slowdown in poor visibility or wet road conditions

Drivers of motor vehicles need to share the road with bicyclists. Be courteous. Allow at least three feet of clearance when passing a bicyclist on the road, look for cyclists before opening a car door or pulling out from a parking space, and yield to cyclists at intersections and as directed by signs and signals. Be watchful for cyclists when making turns, either left or right.

It is the motorist's responsibility to do everything possible to avoid colliding with any pedestrians. Bicyclists, skaters and skateboarders in a crosswalk or driveway are considered pedestrians. Turning motorists must yield to pedestrians crossing the street or driveway at any marked mid-block crossing, driveway or intersections without traffic signals.

Current trends and infrastructural devices used for safety of VRU's

(Speed Reducing Measure, bike lanes, "bike box", letting cyclist merge

before a junction, and advanced stop lines for bicycles)

Reduce the rate of motor vehicle, bicycle, and pedestrian fatalities and serious injuries through design techniques and the application of the "4 Es": engineering, education, enforcement, and emergency response strategies. The areas of pedestrian, bicyclist, and motorcyclist safety are major challenges in Florida. A significant factor driving the relatively high fatality rates among these road user groups in Florida is a climate which is conducive to walking, cycling and motorcycling all year.

As with other emphasis areas, the SHSP (Strategic Highway Safety Plan) establishes a goal to reduce the combined rate of pedestrian and bicyclist fatalities and serious injuries. Statistics relating to bicycle safety help riders understand the importance of wearing a helmet. Whether riding on the sidewalk, street or while mountain biking, bicycle helmets protect your head and reduce the incidence of traumatic brain injury and death. In 2019, 846 bicyclists were killed and 515,000 bicycle-related injuries required emergency-room care. 26,000 were some type of traumatic brain injury that might have been prevented by wearing a helmet. When purchasing a bicycle, a handbook should be given to either the parent or bike rider explaining the Rules of The Road for Bicyclist.

Bike lanes have a physical barrier between bicyclists and drivers. The protective bike lane island will extend further into the intersection. This gives cyclists a physical separation from traffic while they're making right turns or waiting for a green light.

Forward Stop Bar is a waiting area, just past the crosswalk where cyclists can stop. Cars will stop behind the crosswalk. Bikes will stop ahead of it. Pedestrians are free to cross the street uninterrupted. This has the added benefit of making cyclists more visible to turning cars, and it's a safe space for cyclists to wait while wanting to turn left. Instead of merging into the flow of traffic, riders can make two-step left turn, and wait for a signal to turn.

The Setback Crossing

Most of the bike lanes in the U.S. tend to bend into the intersection, right next to moving cars. This creates the constant anxiety of: Is that car turning right even though its signal isn't on? A setback crossing allows for added space (typically the length of a car, about 20 feet), which means there's more time to react to potential conflicts. The design forces drivers to turn 90-degrees before they even cross the bike lane, giving them a clear vantage point and reducing the possibility of a side sweep. At large intersections, bike lanes should have their own signals to synchronize movement.

Pedestrian: Elderly Children and Disabled

Handicapped sidewalk ramps make crossing easier. Also, level street curbs and traffic lights with numbers aid both children and adults In some cases it increase crossing times. Sidewalks are an integral part of the pedestrian transport network and the provision of well-maintained paved paths is associated with fewer pedestrian injuries and greater comfort. Safety and mobility can be improved with appropriate design such as tactile paving, flexible tiles, ramps, high contrast surface painting and regular maintenance, particularly in rainy season. Median islands offer benefits for older pedestrians. They separate traffic directions, allowing pedestrians to stage the road cross in two phases (only needing to check for traffic in one direction at a time which decreases the cognitive and physiological demand on them), provides a refuge to rest after crossing the first half of the road and before commencing the second half, and reduce vehicle speeds.

DUI Manslaughter and Leaving the Scene of a Crash /Death Proportional

A minimum mandatory sentence of 4 years for leaving the scene of a crash/death (with an allowance for downward departure by the court when mitigating factors exist), increases the existing minimum mandatory sentence from 2 to 4 years for leaving the scene of a crash /death with DUI. It requires a 3-year revocation of the offender's driver's license and prior to reinstatement, a driver's education course on the rights of use and protection of "Vulnerable Road Users".