Sheriff’s Office urges safe driving habits as holiday travel increases
Three Flagler County Sheriff’s Office deputies were injured in two separate crashes this month, with officials pointing to distracted driving as a likely cause in both incidents. The Florida Highway Patrol continues to investigate the collisions.
On December 16, Master Deputy Greg Nunziato and Deputy Matthew Mortimer were riding in the left lane of Palm Coast Parkway NE when another vehicle struck them. The driver of that vehicle had attempted to turn into a gas station from the center lane. Both deputies suffered serious injuries and were taken to Halifax Health Medical Center in Daytona Beach. They have since been released and are expected to fully recover. The other driver was not injured. Both FCSO motorcycles were destroyed in the crash.
Ten days earlier, on December 6, Deputy Kaleem Chohan was driving his patrol vehicle north on N. Ocean Shore Boulevard when a driver failed to yield while turning onto the road from Shady Lane N. Despite taking evasive action, Deputy Chohan could not avoid the collision. The other driver struck the front right side of his patrol car. Both vehicles sustained major damage and were likely totaled. The other driver reported head, neck, and back pain but refused additional medical treatment after being examined at the scene. Deputy Chohan received minor injuries, was released from the hospital, and has returned to work.
“Both of these crashes could have had tragic outcomes,” said Sheriff Rick Staly. “I want to remind everyone to stay alert, keep your eyes on the road, obey all traffic signs and signals, and do not drive distracted. Let’s all do our part to make the last few weeks of 2025 traffic fatality-free.”
According to the Sheriff’s Office, one in seven crashes in Florida result from distracted driving. Activities such as texting, talking on the phone, eating, watching videos, or applying makeup all take drivers’ attention away from the road.
“Nothing on your phone is more important than the lives around you on the road and yours,” Sheriff Staly said. “Distracted driving is like driving drunk; it slows your reaction time and takes your focus away from the road.”
The Sheriff’s Office also issued warnings about impaired driving as the holiday season continues. Deputies will increase patrols to identify suspected impaired drivers. So far this year, Flagler County has recorded 18 traffic fatalities, with eight of those deaths caused by drivers impaired by alcohol or drugs. Nationally, one person dies from impaired driving every 45 minutes.
Officials noted that while Florida’s legal limit for blood alcohol content is 0.08 percent, drivers can be arrested for DUI at any level if they show signs of impairment.
“Drivers are responsible for their driving behavior and the impact it can have on others on our roadways,” Sheriff Staly said. “We want everyone in Flagler County to have a joyous and safe holiday. Drink responsibly and don’t get behind the wheel if you have had anything to drink or we will show you some new bars at the alcohol free Green Roof Inn!”
The Sheriff’s Office encouraged residents to plan by designating a sober driver, using rideshare services, taking advantage of AAA’s Tow to Go program, or calling a sober friend or family member.
