As the population in Florida continues to grow, so does the number of cars on the road. Unfortunately, Florida ranks among the top 10 states for car accident fatalities.
According to the Florida Highway Patrol and Motor Vehicles database, there were 409,106 crashes in Florida in 2021. Of these crashes, 2,986 were fatal, and 163,240 resulted in injuries.
These numbers represent a slight decrease from the previous year, when there were 411,303 crashes overall, 3,116 of which resulted in fatality and 165,673 led to injuries.
Factors Resulting in Car Accidents.
Human errors are the leading cause of car accidents. Speeding, drunk driving, and distracted driving are the most common human factors associated with car accidents.
Speeding contributed to 30% of fatal crashes and 9% of injury crashes in Florida in 2021. Drunk driving was a factor in 26% of fatal crashes, and 8% of injury crashes that year.
Sociological factors are also crucial in understanding car accidents. For example, car accidents are more likely to occur in areas with high population density, high poverty levels, and poor road conditions. They are also more likely to occur at night and on weekends.
External factors such as weather and road conditions can also contribute to car accidents. For example, wet roads contribute to 22% of fatal crashes and 9% of injury crashes. Snowy or icy roads are a factor in 2% of fatal crashes and 1% of injury crashes.
If you or a loved one has been involved in a car accident, it is vital to seek experienced legal help. An experienced auto accident lawyer in Boca Raton can help you recover compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and other damages.
Causes of Auto Accidents in Florida
As mentioned above, there are various causes behind car accidents in Florida. Of these, we will focus on driver errors, including distracted driving, speeding, driving under the influence, reckless driving, and fatigue.
Distracted Driving
This can include texting while driving, talking on the phone, eating, or even talking to passengers. Distraction takes a driver’s focus away from the road, making it more difficult to react to potential hazards. In addition, distracted driving is often associated with speeding and other risky behaviors.
Speeding
Speeding is one of the most common causes of car crashes. Driving at an excessive speed makes it more difficult to control the car and increases the distance needed to stop. Speeding increases the likelihood of losing control of the vehicle and the severity of any resulting accidents.
Driving Under the Influence
Impairment due to drugs or alcohol reduces a driver’s reaction time and ability to make sound decisions. Driving while impaired is illegal in all states. Unfortunately, it’s still one of the leading causes of car accidents.
Reckless Driving
Reckless driving encompasses a variety of behaviors, including tailgating, racing, and weaving in and out of traffic. These actions demonstrate a blatant disregard for the safety of other motorists on the road. Reckless driving often leads to accidents, injuries, and even fatalities.
Fatigue
Driving while fatigued can be just as dangerous as driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Fatigue can cause a driver to fall asleep at the wheel or make poor decisions. Therefore, securing enough rest before getting behind the wheel is vital.
Prevention
Motorists can decrease the risk of car accidents by practicing safe driving, like driving defensively and obeying the speed limit.
Drive Defensively
Defensive driving is a set of skills and techniques that can help drivers avoid accidents. The key is to be aware of both the potential hazards on the road and the limitations of your vehicle.
Obey the Speed Limit
Speed limits are designed to keep both drivers and pedestrians safe. Speeding increases the likelihood of losing control of the vehicle and the severity of any resulting accidents.
Drive Sober
Driving under the influence is illegal in all states, yet it continues to be a leading cause of fatal crashes. If you’re going to drink, hand over your keys to a sober friend or take a cab home.
Don’t Drive When Tired
Drowsy driving is a significant problem on our roads today. It can impair your judgment and reaction time, making driving dangerous. If you feel tired, pull over and take a nap or wait until you can get behind the wheel when you’re well-rested.
Final Thoughts
Statistics show that car accidents continue to be a pressing concern, as thousands of people continue to lose their lives or become severely injured in Florida and across the nation. By practicing safe driving techniques, motorists can avoid crashes and help keep the roads safe.
