Why Are There So Many Car Accidents in Florida? South Florida Car Accident Lawyer Explains
South Florida is known for prolific car accidents. For locals, it seems like we see at least one car accident every day.
In 2020, there were more than 100,000 car crashes in South Florida alone between Palm Beach, Broward, and Miami-Dade Counties. One-third of all car accidents in Florida occur in this tri-county area.
Of all these car accidents, more than 50,000 of them resulted in injuries. About one-third of all accidents also involved hit-and-run drivers, which makes for an even more dangerous scenario.
The Top 4 Causes of Car Accidents in Florida
1. Speeding
- Speeding is a leading factor of car accidents both in Florida and nationwide. Speeding increases the risk of car accidents and means that you have less time to respond to any unexpected roadway events.
- The faster you drive, the less control you have over your vehicle. If you’re not paying attention or if something unpredictable happens, the risks can be deadly.
2. Distracted Driving
- Distracted driving includes texting, using any electronic device, being on social media, reading and writing emails, and even eating or drinking.
- Limiting distractions while driving and keeping your eyes on the road and both hands on the wheel at all times are essential to safe driving. A few seconds could result in someone dying. In one case, a driver on a FaceTime call failed to make a complete stop at a stop sign and then struck and killed a bicyclist in the intersection.
3. Drunk Driving
- Unfortunately, drunk driving is prevalent in South Florida, but it is never OK. Especially today, there is no excuse for drunk driving – in a metro area like South Florida, there are numerous rideshare options available. Or, there is always an option to be the designated driver for a day or evening.
4. Weather & Road Conditions
- The weather in South Florida can take drastic turns on nearly any day. A day may be sunny 90% of the time, but then practically monsoon during your commute home.
- Heavy rain can create serious risks when it comes to driving. Before driving in heavy rain, make sure that your car is properly equipped with the right tires, that your tire pressure is appropriate, and that your windshield wipers are operating correctly.
Other common causes of car accidents in South Florida are:
- Driving aggression and road rage
- Cars with mechanical issues
- Reckless driving
- Inexperienced drivers
- Violation of traffic rules
- Unsafe lane changes
- Tire Blowouts
What Should I Do If I’m Injured in a Florida Car Accident?
The first thing you should do after any car accident in South Florida is call 911. This is especially important if you are injured – even if it seems minor.
An immediate 911 call may also provide you the opportunity to report the license plate number to the dispatcher in case the other driver involved in the accident flees the scene. Getting a police report is vital to a Florida personal injury case.
Unless you are seriously injured, however, we would recommend not taking an ambulance to a hospital. It will be very expensive and will use up much of your PIP coverage before you even begin treating and recovering from your car accident injuries.
Have You Been Injured in A Florida Car Accident? Call for a FREE Car Accident Consultation
If you were hurt in a car accident, you need to speak with an experienced Florida car accident lawyer as soon as possible.
Please contact us online or call our Coral Springs office directly at (954) 755-7803 to schedule your free consultation. We proudly serve Florida residents, including all of Fort Lauderdale, Boca Raton, Miami-Dade County, Broward County, Palm Beach County, and all points in between.
Schedule your Free Florida Car Accident consultation today: (954)755-780