My nephew's life was tragically cut short in a horrific vehicle crash. He was only 18 years old and had a bright future ahead of him. The crash occurred when another vehicle, moving at a high rate of speed, crossed the median and collided with the driver's side of my nephew's car. Numerous social media reports indicate that the driver was recklessly weaving in and out of traffic before the crash. Shockingly, the driver was released, and no toxicology test was conducted.

In Florida, there is no mandate for toxicology testing of drivers involved in fatal crashes. This gap in the law prevents families from receiving the full truth about the circumstances surrounding such devastating events. A toxicology test would provide crucial information about whether drugs or alcohol were factors, offering a clearer picture of accountability.

Unfortunately, my family will never know if substances played a role in the crash that killed my nephew. This uncertainty is a burden no family should carry. Enacting a law requiring toxicology tests in all fatal vehicle crashes will ensure that all avenues are investigated, thereby aiding in delivering justice and closure to countless affected families.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), impaired driving was responsible for 28% of all traffic-related deaths in 2019. By implementing mandatory toxicology testing, Florida can align its policies with efforts to combat impaired driving effectively.

We urge the Florida Legislature to take decisive action and mandate toxicology tests for all drivers involved in fatal vehicle crashes. This simple yet crucial step will help ensure accountability and deter impaired driving in the future.

Please join us in calling for this essential legislative change by signing this petition. Together, we can push for a safer and more just environment on Florida's roads. Your signature is a step toward preventing further heartbreak and ensuring justice for victims and their families.