What Is the Leading Cause of Fatal Car Accidents in Florida?
Car accidents are quite common in Florida. Unfortunately, this is true for both collisions that result in injuries and those that result in death. If you pay attention to the news, then it is a guarantee that you hear a lot about fatal car accidents in Florida. According to research, more than 3,000 people die in car accidents in Florida each year. Florida is ranked among the top states in the United States for fatal car accidents. But why do fatal car accidents happen in Florida? Understanding the leading causes of these tragic accidents is crucial for promoting road safety. Below, we look at some of Florida’s leading causes of fatal car accidents.
- Distracted Driving
Research shows that distracted driving is one of the leading causes of fatal car accidents, not only in Florida but across the nation. Distracted driving involves a driver doing another activity that takes their attention away from driving, including texting or talking on the phone, eating or drinking, talking to passengers while driving, and adjusting the radio while driving. Studies show that young drivers, in particular, account for a sizable portion of fatal distracted driving accident victims. Losing focus for even a few seconds while driving can lead to severe and deadly consequences.
- Driving While Impaired
Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is a factor in several car accident deaths a year in Florida. Even though driving while impaired is illegal in Florida and all other states, some drivers still get behind the wheel while impaired. According to the FLHSMV, in 2023, there were 276 fatalities from impaired driving crashes (alcohol and drugs) in Florida. Driving while impaired can result in poor decision-making, reduced coordination, reduced reaction times, and drowsiness, all of which increase the risk of accidents.
- Speeding
Speeding is another major contributor to fatal car collisions in Florida. Speed limits exist for a reason, and exceeding them increases the chances of accidents. Speeding significantly reduces the time a driver has to react to sudden changes on the road, such as another vehicle stopping unexpectedly. It increases the distance a driver needs to stop. Speeding also increases the degree of crash severity. The higher the speed, the more forceful the impact in the event of an accident, and thus the greater the chances of death.
- Reckless Driving
Apart from speeding, several other reckless driving behaviors can cause fatal car accidents, including tailgating, improper lane changing, racing, making improper turns, passing while prohibited, and running red lights. Unfortunately, many motorists drive in a manner that endangers others and their property, and some do this intentionally.
Legal Rights of Surviving Loved Ones
When a person dies after a car accident that was caused by someone else’s negligence, surviving loved ones may have the right to pursue compensation through a wrongful death claim. A wrongful death claim can help cover medical expenses, funeral and burial costs, lost income, and emotional suffering. Consulting a skilled attorney can help families understand their rights and navigate the legal process effectively.
Contact Us for Legal Help
If you’ve lost a loved one in a car accident due to the negligence of another party, contact our Orlando personal injury attorneys at The Pendas Law Firm for legal guidance.
The Pendas Law Firm also represents clients in the Fort Lauderdale, Fort Myers, Ocala, Miami, Tampa, Jacksonville, Bradenton, Daytona Beach, West Palm Beach, Naples, and Melbourne areas.
Source:
flhsmv.gov/traffic-crash-reports/crash-dashboard/
