Florida Officials Promote Road Safety as Record Number of Drivers Expected This Fourth of July

A record-breaking number of travelers are expected to hit the roads for Independence Day, and Florida transportation officials are urging drivers to prioritize safety during what’s expected to be a busy and potentially hazardous travel period.

AAA projects that approximately 4.6 million Floridians will travel by car over the Fourth of July weekend, the highest number the state has seen for the holiday. The surge in traffic is prompting warnings from the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) and Florida Highway Patrol (FHP), who are reminding motorists to prepare both their vehicles and themselves before heading out.

Officials recommend completing a summer maintenance check-up to ensure vehicles are road-ready. Drivers are also encouraged to wear seat belts at all times, avoid distractions such as texting, and drive cautiously—especially with scattered rain showers in the forecast that could lead to slippery or hazardous road conditions.

To support motorists, FDOT is offering free roadside assistance through its Road Ranger program. Operating on key highways including Interstates 4, 75, and 95, Florida’s Turnpike, and major toll roads across Central Florida, Road Rangers provide limited aid such as changing tires and helping with minor mechanical issues.

If assistance is needed, drivers can request help by dialing *FHP (*347) from their mobile phones. Travelers are also reminded to observe Florida’s Move Over Law, which requires drivers to move over—or slow down significantly—when passing emergency or service vehicles stopped on the roadside, including Road Rangers.

To plan ahead and monitor real-time traffic updates, drivers are encouraged to visit FL511.com, where they can view live traffic cameras, construction alerts, and current road conditions.

With more people than ever taking to Florida’s highways this Fourth of July, transportation officials are reinforcing the importance of responsible driving. A few simple precautions, they say, can make a major difference in keeping holiday roadways safe for everyone.