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Super speeding in Florida: Why are police treating it differently now?

On Behalf of | Feb 11, 2026 | Criminal Law

In February 2026, Olympian Sha’Carri Richardson faced super speeding charges after police clocked her at 104 mph in Orange County. Her high-profile arrest put a spotlight on Florida’s new enforcement push. If you have noticed more aggressive speed enforcement lately, you are not alone—and the consequences have gotten much more serious.

The new law turns extreme speeding into a criminal offense

Florida passed HB 351 mid 2025, which completely changed how the state handles extreme speeding. Previously, before this law, speeding was just a traffic ticket—an annoyance that cost you money but did not put you in jail. However, now, if you drive 50 mph or more over the posted limit, you face criminal charges.

For example, a first offense brings a $500 fine and up to 30 days behind bars. If it happens again within five years you are looking at six months in jail, $1,000 in fines and a one-year license suspension. As a result, this shift from civil infraction to criminal offense has caught many drivers off guard.

Police are actively targeting super speeders on major highways

Florida Highway Patrol and local law enforcement have ramped up their efforts to catch super speeders. You will see increased enforcement on major roads like I-4 and I-95, where officers use radar and aircraft to monitor speeds. Many drivers report getting pulled over for speeds they might have gotten away with before. Officers now treat these stops more seriously because they are investigating a potential crime, not just writing a ticket. The enforcement push aims to reduce deadly crashes caused by extreme speeding.

What happens during a super speeding traffic stop

When an officer pulls you over for super speeding, the interaction differs from a standard traffic stop. You should remember several key details:

  • The officer’s name and badge number
  • The exact time and location of the stop
  • What the officer says about your speed and how they measured it
  • Any questions the officer asks you
  • Whether the officer searches your vehicle

Write down these details as soon as possible after the stop. Officers may ask for your license, registration and proof of insurance. In addition, they might also ask where you are going or why you were speeding. That said, you have the right to remain silent beyond providing your identification documents.

Know the law before you hit the road

Public roads require shared responsibility and awareness of current laws. While the penalties may seem harsh, knowing these changes helps you avoid serious consequences. If you are facing super speeding charges, getting legal advice early can help protect your driving privileges and your record. Most importantly, do not let one mistake derail your future.