Do you live in Florida? If so, then you know that life in the Sunshine State can be both exciting and unpredictable.
This is especially true when it comes to driving. As with most places, hundreds of accidents happen every day throughout the state. That’s why it’s wise to stay as educated as possible about what to expect out on the road.
Fortunately, you’ve come to the right place for information about the most common types of Florida car accidents. This article takes a look at road accidents that happen every single day. Keep reading to get the inside scoop on what to look for and how to avoid getting into trouble while driving in Florida.
Speeding
It should come as no surprise that speeding is one of the leading causes of accidents in the State of Florida. After all, this is a traffic violation that most people have been guilty of at least a few times. It’s easy to become distracted or push your speed bit when you’re in a hurry.
The key to reducing accidents involving speeding to simply leave a little earlier and keep an eye on the speedometer. This helps save money on gas while also saving lives.
Drinking and Driving
Thousands of people are killed in drunk driving accidents every year. And many thousands more are injured or at least suffered damage to their vehicles.
It’s important to understand that driving while intoxicated is no joke. Even if you think you’re in control, you definitely aren’t. And there’s never an excuse for getting behind the wheel after having a few. Take the time to drink plenty of water and coffee, then always take the time to fully sober up before attempting to operate your vehicle.
Running Red Lights
It’s a common sight to see someone run a red light at an intersection. In fact, you likely witness this behavior multiple times each day. That’s because it feels like an innocent crime, especially when someone is in a big hurry.
And yet running red lights is incredibly dangerous and should never be taken lightly. After all, it might seem like you are just slipping through the intersection at the last moment, you are actually putting your safety and the safety and other drivers on the road in jeopardy.
Always be very aware of changing lights and resist the temptation to speed up once they’ve turned yellow. Keep in mind that sitting at a light for a minute or two is a small price to pay for getting to your destination in one piece.
Texting While Driving
In the last few years, an increasing number of accidents have been caused by people texting on their smartphones.
It’s human nature to believe that you can multitask while driving your car. But there’s nothing safe about glancing at your phone when you should be totally focused on the road ahead of you.
You should also keep in mind that law enforcement can easily determine if you were texting at the time of the accident. Thus you can be held legally liable if your distracted driving results in injury or death to other drivers, as well as any damage to their vehicle.
The best strategy is to send a text before getting in the car, and then responding to messages once you’ve arrived at your destination. It’s bad enough to listen to the radio or talking on the phone while driving, but it’s crucial to keep your eyes on the road ahead at all times while at the wheel.
Here’s a look at what to do after an auto accident.
Driving While High
When it comes to driving inebriated with alcohol, it’s equally unwise and dangerous to operate a moving vehicle while high. In most states, marijuana and other types of drugs are still illegal, thus you could be prosecuted if you fail to pass a sobriety test. But even in states where marijuana usage is legal, it’s never justifiable to operate a car while under the influence.
Animals In the Road
Members of law enforcement place a big priority on being alert and keeping your eyes on the road ahead while driving. This is because you never know what might unexpectedly appear in front of your car.
This includes animals. For example, thousands of deer and other forms of wildlife are struck by motorists each year. These incidents result in extensive damage to vehicles, as well as serious injury or death for drivers.
This fact is especially true in Florida, a state that is home to a wide variety of wildlife that often wander onto busy roadways.
Falling Asleep at the Wheel
It’s impossible to overstate the importance of being as alert as possible while driving. Along with drinking or being high, driving while fatigued or sleepy is incredibly dangerous. In fact, trying to stay away while operating your vehicle is every bit as dangerous as drunk driving. Because the reality is that you aren’t fully aware of your surroundings. You’ll also be unable to react as reflexively as when you are totally awake and alert.
That’s why it’s so important to be fully rested before getting in your car, even if you’re only driving a short distance.
Bad Weather Conditions
No matter where you live, you likely experience severe weather conditions such as rain or snow. Driving in these kinds of conditions causes thousands of serious accidents every year. So try to stay home or wait until bad weather passes before attempting to drive.
Teen Drivers
Becoming an experienced driver doesn’t happen overnight. That’s why so many accidents involving teen drivers occur each year. This is true of every community in the country, and the State of Florida is certainly no exception.
A Driver’s Guide to the Most Common Types of Florida Car Accidents
Being involved in an auto accident can be scary and stressful. Fortunately, this list of common Florida car accidents will help you stay as safe as possible while on the road in the Sunshine State.
Keep exploring this blog to discover more great lifestyle tips and advice.
