Florida’s New Traffic Laws Bring Stricter Penalties Starting October 2025

HOLLYWOOD, Florida – October marks a pivotal shift in Florida’s road safety laws, as four major legislative reforms take effect under House Bills 253, 113, 479, and 687. These new measures impose harsher penalties on reckless drivers and bring critical changes to how liability and restitution are handled in traffic-related cases. The updates include:

• Felony-level consequences for impersonating law enforcement with vehicle lights
• Stricter punishment for drivers who flee police
• Mandatory restitution for property damage caused by hit-and-run accidents; and
• Significantly harsher sentences for repeat DUI manslaughter offenders.

Cohen & Cohen Law, a Hollywood-based personal injury law firm with over 50 years of experience, closely monitors these changes to help victims understand how the laws will impact their rights to pursue justice and compensation.

“Florida’s traffic law overhaul is designed to make our roads safer, but it also adds complexity for victims navigating personal injury claims,” said Attorney Adam Mann. “For example, tougher DUI penalties may deter repeat offenders, but victims still face long recovery periods, mounting bills, and the need for strong legal representation to seek compensation.”

The firm notes that while the reforms primarily target offenders, they indirectly affect victims’ claims. Mandatory restitution for hit-and-run property damage provides new avenues for recovery, while felony-level charges may strengthen civil cases tied to serious crashes.

“These updates highlight the need for victims to have an attorney who understands how criminal liability connects to civil compensation,” Mann added. “Our role is to make sure clients aren’t left behind as the legal landscape evolves. We fight for every dollar they may be eligible to claim—whether that means pursuing restitution, negotiating with insurers, or taking a case to trial.”

Founded in 1970, Cohen & Cohen Law has built its reputation as a family-based firm committed to compassionate, results-driven advocacy. With the enactment of Florida’s October 2025 reforms, the firm is ready to guide accident victims through the challenges and opportunities these new laws present.

Victims of reckless or impaired drivers should not face their battles alone. The attorneys at Cohen & Cohen are available for FREE consultations to discuss rights, options, and strategies for recovery.

To learn more about how Florida’s new traffic laws may affect your case, or to schedule a consultation, visit www.cohenandcohenlaw.com or call (800)-33COHEN(800)-33COHEN.

About Cohen & Cohen Law

At Cohen & Cohen Law, our mission is to help the injured heal physically, financially, and emotionally from devastating accidents through exceptional legal representation and compassionate care. Founded in 1970, our family-based firm is caring, accessible, and proud of over 50 years of experience serving South Florida. We’re here to be the experience you need and the representation you can trust.