OSCEOLA COUNTY, Fla. — In an effort to combat the escalating issue of distracted driving, leaders in Osceola County are advocating for stricter laws that would prohibit the use of handheld devices while driving throughout Florida. The proposed legislation, currently making its way through the Florida Senate, aims to make Florida a hands-free state.
Local officials recently passed a resolution in support of the legislation, reflecting their commitment to improving road safety. The move comes after a noticeable rise in traffic incidents attributed to drivers distracted by electronic devices.
Community support for the bill is strong, as numerous residents have experienced firsthand the dangers posed by distracted driving. One resident, Nancy Nelson, recounted a harrowing incident where a distracted driver destroyed her husband’s car as they were en route to a basketball game. Nelson emphasized the deceptive nature of ‘just a quick glance’ at a phone, which can lead to catastrophic results.
Adding to the sense of urgency, Ilya Jacobs highlighted the unique risks posed by the heavy influx of tourists in the area. He stressed the importance of maintaining complete focus on the road, not only for one’s own safety but also for the safety of others.
The issue hits particularly close to home for local News 6 anchor Matt Austin, who suffered serious injuries in a crash involving a distracted driver. Austin, alongside Demetrius Branca, whose son was killed by a distracted driver, are vocal advocates for tougher driving laws. Branca expressed frustration over the perceived lack of sufficient action from political leaders, describing distracted driving as a “plague.”
The bill, championed by Sen. Erin Grall, enjoys bipartisan support and, if passed, could be enacted as early as July 1. Proponents of the bill, like the Osceola County leaders, argue that immediate action is required to curb the preventable losses caused by distracted driving.
As the community rallies around this initiative, more information about the resolution and ongoing advocacy efforts can be accessed through local community resources and discussions.
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