Brevard County residents have expressed growing concerns about the lack of adequate traffic law enforcement on I-95, citing increasing traffic accidents, injuries, and fatalities. With only the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) and the Brevard County Sheriff’s Office (BCSO) authorized to enforce traffic laws on the highway, the limited resources of these agencies are often stretched thin. In light of this, the idea of implementing a mutual aid agreement—similar to one used in Broward County—has emerged as a potential solution.
According to recent statistics, Brevard County recorded 6,648 crashes in the past year, resulting in 67 fatalities and 5,029 injuries. Bicycle and pedestrian accidents are particularly concerning, with 247 bicycle crashes and 199 pedestrian crashes recorded, many leading to fatalities. Additionally, over 1,400 hit-and-run crashes were reported. These numbers highlight the urgent need for improved traffic enforcement to address reckless driving behaviors.
FHP and BCSO currently shoulder most of the responsibility for traffic enforcement on I-95. However, their limited manpower and resources are often prioritized for serious incidents and other law enforcement duties, leaving minor yet critical infractions, such as speeding, under-monitored.
Broward County’s mutual aid agreement allows all law enforcement officers, regardless of jurisdiction, to enforce traffic laws throughout the county, including on major highways like I-95. This collaborative approach eliminates jurisdictional barriers, empowering city police departments to assist with traffic enforcement on state highways. Brevard County residents are urging local officials to consider a similar agreement to enhance public safety and deter reckless driving.
