A Florida bill approved by the Legislature is intended to reduce the number of drivers who speed and prevent more deaths from auto and motorcycle accidents. It will be sent to Governor Crist who is expected to sign it.

Rep. Carlos Lopez-Cantera indicated that HB #137′s intent was to stop motorcycle drivers from doing “wheelies”, or taking their bike up on the back wheel, and driving in excess of 100 miles per hour. The bill includes a $1,000 fine for the first speeding offense, up from $250. The second offense would be a possible one-year suspension and a $2,500 fine. For a third offense drivers could lose their license for 10 years and have their bike confiscated.

The American Motorcycle Association contacted Rep. Lopez-Cantera and said the bill was discriminating against motorcyclist’s who speed. In response, the bill was amended to include anyone driving 4-wheel vehicle in excess of 50 miles over the speed limit would get the same fines and suspensions.

The bill is expected to go into effect October 1, 2008.

Florida’s high school graduations are about to head into full swing. Have you talked to your teen about partying, drinking, and the likelihood of auto accidents?

In 2006, 3,490 teenagers died in automobile accidents, and 31% of those teenage drivers who died had been drinking and 25% had a blood alcohol level of .08 or higher*.

The Florida Highway Patrol is asking high school students, including seniors, to “celebrate smart” by making the right choice when it comes to drinking and driving, allowing friends to drive drunk, or getting into a vehicle with someone who has been drinking. Graduation is an exciting time as seniors look forward to moving on to the next stage of the lives. FHP just wants to make sure they make it to the next stage alive and well.

FHP suggests that teachers and parents discuss the the following rules before their teens head off to graduation parties:

• Don’t drink and drive.