
Miami's New Traffic Laws and What They Mean for Drivers
1. Enhanced Speeding Regulations
Florida has revised its speeding penalties to deter violations and improve road safety:
- Residential Areas: Strictly enforced 30 mph limits with enhanced monitoring.
- School Zones: 20 mph mandatory limit during school hours with doubled fines.
- Highways: Some highways allow up to 70 mph but are monitored with advanced radar technology.
Speeding Fines:
- 1-9 mph over the limit: $50 fine, 3 points on license
- 10-14 mph over: $200 fine, 3 points
- 15-19 mph over: $300 fine, 4 points
- 20+ mph over: $500 fine, court appearance required, 6 points
Source: Boca Bay DUI Program
2. Stricter Distracted Driving Laws
Florida has implemented tougher distracted driving laws to reduce accidents caused by phone use.
- Handheld device usage while driving is now strictly prohibited.
- Texting while driving is a primary offense, allowing officers to pull over drivers solely for this violation.
- Fines start at $150 for first offenses and $300 for repeat offenders.
Source: Boca Bay DUI Program
3. DUI Laws: Zero Tolerance
Stronger DUI laws now impose severe penalties for impaired driving:
- Standard drivers: 0.08% BAC limit
- Commercial drivers: 0.04% BAC limit
- Underage drivers: 0.02% BAC limit
First-time offenders face fines between $500-$1,000, license suspension (6-12 months), and mandatory DUI school.
Source: Boca Bay DUI Program
4. Introduction of the HALO Law
The new HALO Law requires a 25-foot buffer zone around emergency personnel, tow truck operators, and vehicles using hazard lights.
Violations result in fines starting at $150, with repeat offenses leading to criminal charges and potential jail time.
Source: The Ticket Clinic
5. Miami Beach’s New Towing Notification Policy
Residents now receive a 15-minute warning before towing, allowing them to move their vehicles.
Exceptions: Fire lanes, travel lanes, loading zones, and disabled spots.
Source: Axios
6. Spring Break Traffic Enforcement in Miami Beach
During the 2025 spring break period, Miami Beach has implemented stricter measures:
- Parking fines increased to $516, with additional fees for non-residents.
- License plate readers and drones monitor high-impact areas.
- Beach entry restrictions and parking garage closures after 6 PM.
Source: The Sun