Car Accidents

Unfortunately, Florida ranks among the highest states for driving accidents and car-related injuries and fatalities. In fact, NHTSA research suggests speeding accounts for nearly 27% of all fatal crashes occurring across the state. Some of the most common causes of car accidents include:

Lane Change Crashes: In general, improper lane changes contribute to thousands of car crashes each year. The driver who switches a lane of traffic without using turn signals or checking mirrors for oncoming vehicles is typically at fault.

Wrongful Death: A driver that participates in reckless or negligent behaviors behind the wheel are the leading causes of wrongful death lawsuits in Florida.

Distracted Driving: Texting, eating, talking, or partaking in an action that distracts your attention from the road increases the risks of a car accident.

Driver Fatigue: Drowsy driving crashes occur annually due to lack of sleep, which results in slower reaction times and reduced awareness. Driver fatigue is as dangerous as drinking under the influence.

Speeding: Excessive speeds remain one of the top three contributors of Florida accident injuries and deaths. Any speed above the maximum limit can lead to a misdemeanor, criminal or felony charge by state authorities.

Drunk Driving: Consuming more than the legal limit of alcohol (0.08%) and getting behind the wheel of a car is illegal in Florida. Drivers should never drink and drive.

Head-on Crashes: IIHS research demonstrates head-on crashes are among the most dangerous and a major cause of passenger deaths each year.

Hit & Run Accidents: The penalties for a hit & run accident in Florida are severe, however, it is still relatively common. Nearly 25% of all crashes are hit & run cases.

Intersection Crashes: Also known as T-bone accidents, are often caused by obstructed views and inadequate depth perception.

Left-Turn Accidents: Similar to intersection crashes, left-turn accidents arise from one vehicle entering the path of another.

Rear-End Crashes: Tailgating and aggressive driving lead to a record number of rear-end collisions in Florida each year.

Uninsured Motorist Claims: While some insurance policies include uninsured motorist coverage, not all damages may be rewarded. You’ll need the help of a Florida car accident lawyer to defend your case.

Rollover Accidents: Most times, rollover accidents result from traveling at high speeds. Rollover victims often experience harmful injuries to the arms, legs, and ribs.

According to the NHTSA, new car accident statistics disclose harrowing results. In the first half of 2021, road fatalities were up 18.4% over the year prior. As it happens, the last time reports reached such a high percentage was back in 2006. It brings forth a concerning point. How can vehicles equipped with the most advanced car safety technologies not help to reduce the frequency of car accidents? Unfortunately, the main cause of car accidents today is rooted in human error. A surprising number of drivers engage in poor driving habits that not only increase the likelihood of a car accident, but have urged safety organizations to implement a National Roadway Safety Strategy as a result.

Most car accident reports beget personal injury cases or fatalities due to speeding and reckless driving behavior. Today, the leading cause of car accidents across the country is distracted driving. This involves any activity that diverts the driver’s attention, including talking, texting, eating, or using an electronic device. Therefore, it is imperative for all drivers to take better precautions while on the road. This includes, but is not limited to, wearing your seatbelt at all times, sober driving, and avoiding distractions while behind the wheel.