What is the Florida Motor Unit Challenge?

The Florida Department of Transportation (F.D.O.T.) instituted the Motor Unit Challenge to recognize the value and positive impact of Motorcycle Patrol Units on traffic safety programs. Motor units submit an application that documents their traffic safety efforts and effectiveness. The top three agencies in each size category are recognized . Additionally, one Grand Prize Winner receives a fully equipped Harley Davidson motorcycle.

Why does the FDOT conduct this program?

Motor Vehicle crashes are a major public health problem with more than 41,000 people killed and more than 3 million individuals injured on our nation's roadways each year. Research shows that an increase in traffic enforcement in a community results in a decrease in motor vehicle crashes, injuries, and fatalities. Many law enforcement agencies utilize motorcycle patrol units to improve their traffic safety services. These specialized units are capable of diverse assignments and have proven to be beneficial in their ability to easily access traffic crash scenes and enforce traffic laws on congested roadways. The Motor Unit Challenge complements other F.D.O.T. programs to promote traffic safety.

What's in it for my department?

This competition provides opportunities for public recognition of exemplary motor unit traffic programs, incentives for continuing activities, and documentation of unit effectiveness. This documentation can help provide accountability and prove the value of a strong traffic program and Motor Patrol Unit. Being a winner brings a great deal of positive attention and enhances both the unit and the entire agency's reputations.

How are the applications scored?

F.D.O.T. compares each motor unit's traffic safety statistics over the challenge period for the current year with the baseline data period for the previous year. Units which demonstrate the most improvement within their category will be recognized. As applications are received, the data will be entered into a formulated scoring spreadsheet. The applications are scored using the increase in total number of citations, decrease in total number of crashes and increase in the seat belt usage rate.