Why Florida Is A Leading State For Car Accidents?

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), Florida is consistently one of the leading states for car accidents. Over 200,000 car accidents are recorded in Florida each year. That’s an average of 550 accidents each day. In 2019 alone, the state recorded over 400,000 car accidents and 3225 fatalities. Many of these accidents directly result from driver error, although some may be due to poor roads or weather conditions. Here are some common causes of the high number of car accidents in Florida.

Distracted driving

Distracted driving is one of Florida’s most common causes of car accidents. Drivers who are texting, talking on the phone, or even just not paying attention to the road are a danger to themselves and other drivers. It is important for safety that drivers do not engage in such activities as phone calls, texting, and other similar actions while behind the wheel. Florida Statute 316 prohibits any driver from using a mobile phone to write a text message, read a text message, send a text message, or place an outgoing or incoming call. 

This statute also prohibits sending an email from the phone while driving – either with or without the device attached to the car. When an accident occurs due to distracted driving, the driver may be sued for compensation. “It’s sad to see so many accidents resulting from texting and driving,” says Brandon F. Jones, a personal injury attorney at Tampa’s Rhino Lawyers. “People don’t realize how dangerous glancing at their phones for even a moment can truly be.”

Speeding

Another leading cause of car accidents in Florida is speeding. Drivers who are going too fast for conditions or speeding through traffic are more likely to be involved in an accident. Speeding makes it hard for drivers to negotiate corners and stop if there is an obstruction ahead. Speeding most commonly occurs on highways and other areas with higher speed limits. Car accidents caused by speeding can be complicated and expensive, so drivers must be fully aware of the speed limits and road conditions. The Department of Highway Safety & Motor Vehicles (DHSMV) publishes information about the speeds of different road areas in Florida.

Driving under the influence

Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol is also a leading cause of car accidents in Florida. Drivers impaired by drugs or alcohol are more likely to make poor decisions and be involved in an accident. In 2019, over 8,000 car accidents in Florida were caused by driving under the influence, and about 25% of those accidents resulted in serious injuries. For many reasons, drunk driving is a leading cause of car accidents in Florida. Drivers who are drunk, drugged, or otherwise impaired likely will not be paying close attention to the road and will be more likely to make poor decisions as a result of their impairment.

Poor road conditions

Sometimes car accidents are caused by poor road conditions. Potholes, construction, and debris can all contribute to car accidents. In such instances, the government agencies and authorities may be liable for paying the damages if they have occurred due to their negligence. In such situations, drivers can have lawyers prepare their case by providing evidence that the road conditions caused the accident. The lawyers can assist a driver in building evidence and providing witnesses to support the case.

Disregarding Traffic Laws

Traffic infractions may not seem serious, but they can often lead to car accidents. Drivers speeding, texting, or violating traffic laws may cause a car accident. It is important for drivers to know the rules of the road and obey them when they are in use. The DHSMV publishes a variety of driver’s manuals and other information related to traffic violations that drivers should be aware of.

Animals

Animals are also a leading cause of car accidents in Florida. Wild animals such as raccoons and deer are common in the state and can be dangerous to drivers. Drivers need to be aware of animals on the road so that they can take steps to avoid collisions with them. Animals may be especially prevalent at night when it is harder for drivers to see them on the road.

How to avoid accidents when driving

When you’re out on the road, you’re your biggest advocate and protector. Avoid accidents by employing the following techniques while driving. 

Pay attention to the road

Drivers should always ensure they drive at the correct speed on the road. Speeding, failing to obey traffic laws, negligence, or driving under the influence may all contribute to accidents. Drivers who violate traffic laws can be held financially liable for damages, including medical expenses and lost wages.

Take your training seriously

Drivers must understand the rules of the road and obey them at all times. It can often be difficult to spot an accident because it occurs quickly. Drivers should exercise caution at all times and drive carefully on the roads. Some accidents are unavoidable, but drivers can avoid many accidents by driving well and paying attention to their surroundings.

Bottom Line

Many factors contribute to the high number of car accidents in Florida. Distracted driving, speeding, driving under the influence, and poor road conditions are all leading causes. Weather can also be a factor. If you have been involved in a car accident, it’s important to seek legal advice. An experienced car accident attorney can help you seek compensation for your injuries. Attorneys can provide free consultation and help you understand who is responsible for the accident and the actions you should take to claim compensation or avoid liability. All the information you provide to the lawyer is protected by attorney-client privilege, so you are guaranteed all the information provided is at the highest discretion.