Florida has become one of the most dangerous states for drivers, consistently ranking among the top states with the most car accidents. Data from 2020 lists the Sunshine State behind only California and Texas in third for the most fatalities due to car accidents. There are a number of scenarios that cause accidents across the state ranging from driver negligence to foul weather.
Numerous out-of-state travelers and shipping transporters add to the already congested state highway systems creating more opportunities for driving mistakes to turn disastrous. According to the Department of Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, in 2021 Florida reported 401,540 crashes that resulted in over 3,740 fatalities and more than 252,973 injuries.
If you are involved in a car accident in Florida that is the result of another driver’s negligence you may have the right to seek compensation for damages. Working with an experienced Florida car accident attorney is the best way to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
What are the Top Causes of Car Accidents in Florida?
Most accidents can be attributed to driver error or negligence such as distracted or speeding drivers, some do occur due to poor weather conditions or mechanical failure. Regardless, it is important for drivers to understand the common causes of car accidents in Florida to help prevent crashes whenever possible.
- Distracted Driving
According to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, distracted driving crashes resulted in 333 fatalities in 2021 – the highest recorded in Florida in at least 8 years despite increasingly stringent state laws. Whether texting, scrolling social media, playing music or on a phone call, taking attention away from the road is a potential hazard that can have disastrous consequences. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reported in 2020 that driving a vehicle while texting is six times more dangerous than driving while intoxicated. - Speeding
The faster a vehicle is moving, the harder it is to control and the longer it takes to come to a complete stop. Speeding is a major factor in the number of car accidents in Florida annually and often result in more catastrophic injury due to the force of a speeding vehicle on impact. - Reckless or Aggressive Driving
Drivers who do not obey traffic laws such as traffic signals, stop signs, and turn signals or aggressively change lanes or tailgate are creating dangerous situations for everyone else on the road around them. - Driving Under the Influence
Drunk driving or driving while impaired accounts for about 30% of all car accidents in Florida according to 2021 data. Drugs and alcohol significantly impact a driver’s reaction time, motor control, balance, and decision-making, creating a potentially fatal outcome for everyone on the road. - Weather Conditions
Florida is known to have significant weather events ranging from monsoons to hurricanes. Storms, especially during the summer months, can cause extremely low visibility and dangerous road conditions in the blink of an eye.
Hiring a Florida Car Accident Attorney
When facing serious injuries following a car accident it can be difficult to know where to begin. Hiring an experienced car accident attorney can help you move forward with your emotional, physical, and financial recovery and help you receive the damages you deserve to live your life to the fullest.
Ted Babbitt is an award-winning car accident attorney based in Palm Beach, Florida. He has decades of experience successfully representing victims and their families following devastating accidents caused by negligent drivers. To schedule a free and confidential consultation contact Ted’s office by filling out this online form or calling (561) 375-2841.