There were nearly 341,000 Florida car accidents in 2020. That equates to approximately 900 car crashes each day of the year. Sadly, car accidents are a common sight in the Sunshine State.
But familiarizing yourself with the most common causes of Florida car accidents could help you avoid getting into one. Many of the causes of these crashes are common culprits nationwide.
What do you need to watch out for when driving through Florida? Let’s find out!
What Are The Leading Causes Of Florida Car Accidents?
Having an accident (of all types) is the third-leading cause of death in the United States. Car accidents account for a massive amount of this number. Globally, car accidents account for more than a million deaths each year.
These statistics are worrying, but they can help you drive more safely. For example, when traveling through Florida, knowing the leading causes of accidents could you avoid getting into a car crash.
As such, let’s quickly review the common culprits behind Florida car accidents and discuss how you can avoid them.
Speeding
Driving over the speed limit is the most common cause of car accidents in Florida. Unfortunately, speeding also tends to be one of the leading causes of fatal car crashes.
The typical interstate speed limit in Florida is 75mph. However, it’s not uncommon to see cars zipping down highways at speeds upwards of 90mph. Driving in the right-hand or middle lanes is a smart way to avoid speeders.
Texting While Driving
Looking at your phone or texting while driving can also lead to car accidents. When your focus is divided between your personal device and the road, you’re bound to make mistakes.
Speed is also something to take into account. Let’s say that you’re traveling at 60mph, and you look down at your phone for five seconds. By the time you look back at the road, you’ve traveled more than 400ft, but blindly.
Small animals, children, and obstacles can easily enter your driving path during this time. If you’re not completely focused, it’s easy to end up in a car accident.
Driving Under The Influence
Florida is a fantastic state for vacationing and retirement. As such, it’s home to thousands of bars and liquor stores. But the flip side of this touristic accommodation is drunk driving.
Driving while under the influence of alcohol or an illicit substance is quite common in Florida. And when you’re not sober, you’re not able to make smart choices. Don’t get behind the wheel after drinking alcohol!
Extreme Weather
Let’s face it—Florida is home to some pretty incredible weather. While it’s often sunny, warm, and humid throughout the Sunshine State, it can be equally rainy and windy.
Each year, Floridians prepare themselves for oncoming hurricanes and tropical storms. These weather events can decimate communities. Some of the hurricanes that blow through Florida have winds greater than 100mph.
Visiting Florida during its hurricane season can result in a greater amount of car accidents. People evacuating the state may feel frustrated, stressed, and impatient. As such, they may not follow road rules.
Even more concerning, some areas are prone to flash floods. If you’re on the road while a storm is pouring down, you may get caught in a flooded area. If you’re not careful, this could lead to a crash.
Ignoring Traffic Lights
When a traffic light turns yellow, it’s a sign that you should slow down and prepare to stop. Naturally, a red light indicates a stop. But some Florida drivers don’t pay much attention to traffic lights.
While traveling through the Sunshine State, you might spot quite a few folks peeling rubber at red lights. This is a dangerous trend that often results in car accidents.
Do not allow other drivers to pressure you into breaking the law. When stopping or slowing at a yellow light, you might get honked at. However, you can rest easy knowing that you’re doing the right thing and staying safe.
Driver Exhaustion
Florida has a few rail lines that are helpful when transporting goods. But most of Florida is supplied via its interstates and highways. This means plenty of truck drivers on the roads.
But truck drivers often work extremely long hours. They may drive for twelve or more hours before pulling into a stop and getting some rest. Driving while exhausted can be just as dangerous as drunk driving.
If you’re driving late at night, be watchful of semi-trucks. A driver can doze off at the wheel and end up crashing into you, causing serious damages to you and your car.
What Should You Do After A Car Accident?
The first thing you should do after a car accident is to contact the police. If you or someone else is injured, it’s crucial to request an ambulance. As soon as you’re able to, you’ll also want to contact your insurance company.
But Florida is a no-fault state. If you were seriously injured during a car crash or your vehicle was badly damaged, you may want to hire a lawyer. Car crash injuries can be life-long, and you’ll need proper restitution.
If you’re looking for legal representation, you may want to contact Kemp, Ruge & Green Law Group. After all, this is the best legal partner if you have been in a car accident.
Avoid Florida Car Accidents
The most common culprits behind Florida car accidents include speeding, texting while driving, and driving while under the influence of alcohol. But extreme weather, lack of focus, and exhaustion are also to blame.
When driving in Florida, it’s crucial to pay close attention to the road and other drivers. Doing so can help you avoid most types of car accidents. Still, if you’ve been in a car crash, you’ll need to contact a reputable attorney.
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