N.J. Man Charged With Violating ‘Super Speeder’ Law at 116mph, DUI in Boca Raton

N.J. Man Charged With Violating ‘Super Speeder’ Law at 116mph, DUI in Boca Raton

A New Jersey man has been charged with violating Florida’s new “super speeder” law by traveling well in excess of 100 m.p.h. on I-95 in Boca Raton, leading to his arrest by officers from the Florida Highway Patrol. Ryan Mathie, 27, of Marlboro, N.J., was allegedly clocked at 116 m.p.h. on the highway by a trooper utilizing a LIDAR device. The incident, which occurred late Tuesday afternoon near the Yamato Road exit, resulted not only in the super speeder citation but also a DUI charge after officers administered a field sobriety test.

High-Speed Chase and Arrest

According to the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) report, Trooper David Miller observed a silver BMW traveling at a significantly high rate of speed southbound on I-95. After confirming the vehicle’s speed with his LIDAR, Trooper Miller initiated a traffic stop. The report indicates that Mathie initially failed to comply, briefly leading officers on a short pursuit before finally pulling over near the entrance ramp to Yamato Road. The pursuit, thankfully, did not involve any accidents or endanger other motorists. Upon approaching the vehicle, Trooper Miller noted signs of impairment, leading to the administration of a field sobriety test, which Mathie reportedly failed.

The arrest took place amidst the usual afternoon rush hour traffic, causing a brief but noticeable disruption. Witnesses reported seeing several patrol cars converge on the BMW, effectively bringing the situation under control without incident. The incident highlights the increasing concern about speeding on I-95, a major artery running through Palm Beach County and connecting several key areas, including Boca Raton, Delray Beach, and Fort Lauderdale.

Super Speeder Law: A Closer Look

Mathie’s arrest underscores the seriousness of Florida’s recently implemented “super speeder” law. This legislation targets drivers who exceed the speed limit by 25 mph or more on limited-access highways. The fines associated with these violations are substantially higher than standard speeding tickets, aiming to deter reckless driving and enhance highway safety. The increased penalties also contribute to funding for highway safety improvements throughout the state.

The law has generated considerable discussion since its inception, with some arguing that the penalties are too severe while others maintain that the stricter enforcement is necessary to combat dangerous driving habits. The high cost of the violation—currently $250 plus court costs—along with the three points added to the driver’s license, is intended to be a significant deterrent. The extra cost associated with insurance premiums after such an offense also adds a layer of financial consequences.

Impact on Boca Raton Community

The incident raises concerns within the Boca Raton community, particularly given the proximity of I-95 to residential areas and popular destinations like Mizner Park. The high volume of traffic on I-95, combined with the potential for reckless driving, poses a significant safety risk. The arrest serves as a reminder of the importance of safe driving practices and the potential consequences of exceeding speed limits. Palm Beach County officials are consistently working on implementing further safety measures along I-95.

The incident also highlights the ongoing efforts of the Florida Highway Patrol to maintain order and safety on the state’s highways. Their proactive approach to enforcing traffic laws, including the super speeder law, is crucial in ensuring the well-being of all motorists.

Mathie’s Charges and Legal Ramifications

Mathie is facing multiple charges, including:

• Violation of Florida’s “super speeder” law
• Driving Under the Influence (DUI)
• Reckless driving
• Resisting arrest without violence (for initially failing to comply with the traffic stop)

The severity of these charges could lead to significant fines, a lengthy driver’s license suspension, and even potential jail time. His arraignment is scheduled for next week at the Palm Beach County Courthouse. His legal representation has yet to be publicly confirmed.

Florida Highway Patrol’s Response

The Florida Highway Patrol released a statement emphasizing their commitment to highway safety and the enforcement of traffic laws. They reiterated their zero-tolerance policy for reckless driving and impaired driving, highlighting the potential dangers posed by such behavior. The FHP encourages all motorists to drive responsibly and adhere to posted speed limits to help ensure the safety of themselves and others on the road.

Trooper Miller, the arresting officer, has been commended for his quick response and professional handling of the situation. His actions prevented a potentially dangerous situation from escalating, ensuring the safety of all involved and demonstrating the commitment to responsible enforcement by the Florida Highway Patrol. The department is currently reviewing dashcam and LIDAR data to ensure all procedures were followed correctly.

Community Concerns and Future Initiatives

The incident has sparked renewed discussion within the Boca Raton community regarding traffic safety measures on I-95. Many residents are calling for additional speed enforcement and preventative measures to curb reckless driving. This includes suggestions for improved signage, increased police presence, and perhaps even the implementation of stricter penalties for repeat offenders. Local officials from Boca Raton and Palm Beach County are currently evaluating various options to enhance highway safety and address these growing concerns. Florida Atlantic University (FAU), situated near the I-95 corridor, has expressed its support for increased safety measures.

In addition to the law enforcement response, initiatives to educate drivers about the dangers of speeding and drunk driving are also being discussed. Public awareness campaigns could play a crucial role in shaping safer driving habits. The collaborative efforts of the community, law enforcement, and local officials will be essential in effectively addressing the issue and improving highway safety for all.

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