FLHSMV and FHP urge safe driving this holiday season with ‘Arrive Alive’ campaign
Press release from the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) and its division, the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP), announce the launch of the “Arrive Alive” campaign, a seasonal initiative reminding all Floridians that safety is always in season. Running now through the holiday season this year, FLHSMV, FHP, and our public safety partners urge motorists to stay vigilant, obey traffic laws, and drive responsibly so that everyone can make it home safely.
The campaign emphasizes the threats of reckless, negligent, and distracted driving and the importance of never driving impaired, buckling up, and slowing down.
“Reckless and impaired driving are not just violations of the law — they are threats to the lives of every Floridian on the road,” said FLHSMV Executive Director Dave Kerner. “This holiday season, we are reminded that every decision behind the wheel carries consequences. Let us all choose patience over aggression, responsibility over risk, and remember that arriving alive means protecting not only yourself, but everyone sharing Florida’s roads — today and every day.”
“Our troopers see firsthand the devastating aftermath of drivers that choose distraction, unlawful speed, or impairment over safety,” said FHP Colonel Gary Howze. “This holiday season, your Florida Troopers will be out in full force to ensure our roadways are as safe as possible. Enforcement alone is not enough though — every driver has a personal responsibility to others to make smart, responsible decisions. Staying alert, obeying traffic laws, and respecting others on the road are the basics to ensuring Floridians can ARRIVE ALIVE and celebrate a joyful holiday with loved ones.”
The holiday season brings increased travel across Florida’s roadways, and FLHSMV and FHP remind motorists that reckless and negligent driving remains the leading cause of crashes and fatalities statewide. Actions such as failing to yield, tailgating, speeding, or running red lights put lives at risk. Drivers are urged to stay alert, respect traffic laws, and practice defensive driving to protect themselves and others.
Impaired driving also continues to be a deadly threat, with one in three traffic fatalities in Florida involving an impaired driver. Alcohol, drugs, and even certain prescription medications can compromise judgement and reaction time. Our agency stresses that motorists should never drive under the influence — the consequences include fines, license revocation, jail time, and a conviction that can remain on record for 75 years.
Seatbelt use is another critical factor in arriving alive. Florida law requires seatbelts or child restraints for drivers, front-seat passengers, and all passengers under 18, but we encourage everyone to buckle up! Wearing a seatbelt correctly reduces the risk of serious injury or death in a crash by nearly 50%.
Finally, distracted driving continues to endanger lives, with a crash occurring every 44 seconds in Florida. Distractions go beyond texting: eating, adjusting navigation systems, or attending to passengers can all take attention away from the road. Motorists are urged to keep their eyes, hands, and minds focused on driving, while passengers can play a vital role in helping eliminate distractions.
This holiday season, stay alert, stay safe — make it home today!