Understanding common causes of car accidents in Florida can help drivers protect themselves and their passengers.
Summary
- Florida consistently ranks high on the U.S. list of car accident fatalities and injuries.
- Causes of car accidents include speeding, distracted driving, reckless driving, and others.
- You need the help of a skilled lawyer to determine who was to blame for your injuries.
- Even though Florida’s no-fault insurance system compensates car wreck accident victims, policies only go so far.
- When a policy doesn’t cover the full extent of a victim’s damages, they must hire an attorney to obtain full compensation.
Whenever two or more vehicles collide, the results can be life-shattering. There are many causes of car accidents. Part of what makes many wrecks so terrible is that most of them are preventable.
The attorneys with Werner, Hoffman, Greig & Garcia have extensive experience helping people hurt in car accidents caused by someone else’s negligence. We’ll fight to protect your rights and help you obtain maximum compensation. Please contact us online or call (800) 320-HELP for a free consultation.
Florida vs. United States Car Accident Statistics
Florida, with its pristine beaches, world-renowned theme parks, and vibrant culture, is a magnet for tourists and residents alike. However, our state is also notorious for car accidents. In recent years, Florida has consistently ranked among the states with the most in the United States.
The statistics on Florida car accidents are staggering. In 2022, Florida recorded 397,500 car accidents, resulting in 3,574 deaths and 252,123 severe injuries. Only California and Texas had more fatalities.
It’s somewhat understandable that Florida ranks high in car wrecks. We have more than 22 million residents (No. 3 in the country), so our state has more vehicles on the road— and more accidents.
Are Florida drivers worse than those in other states? Forbes magazine analyzed crash data throughout the nation. They used several metrics to determine their ranking, including distracted and drunk driving incidents per 100,000 residents. According to rankings from City Data and Forbes, Florida ranks No. 17 among the states with the worst drivers.
The state had 11.03 fatal drunk driving accidents per 100,000 people and 1.58 fatal distracted driving wrecks. Texas came in at No. 1, with 17.24 drunk driving deaths and 1.92 distracted driving fatalities. Louisiana, Kansas, Oklahoma, and Kentucky round out the Top 5 on this dubious list.
Top Causes of Car Accidents in Florida
So, even though Florida isn’t the most dangerous place in the country to drive, it’s far too high in the rankings. These are some of the most common causes of car accidents in the state.
Distracted Driving
According to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV), distracted driving caused 54,808 crashes in 2022. These accidents killed 279 people and severely injured 2,650.
This dangerous behavior includes texting or talking, eating, or using a vehicle’s entertainment system. These distractions distract the driver from the road, significantly increasing accident risk. Many people think they’re untouchable when it comes to distracted driving, but unfortunately, that isn’t the case.
Speeding
Excessive speed is one of the most common causes of car accidents in Florida. Speeding reduces a driver’s ability to react to unexpected situations, increasing the severity of accidents when they occur. With long stretches of highways and the desire to reach destinations quickly, speeding is a common issue in Florida.
The good news is that speeding-related crashes decreased from 2010-2020, from 19% of all motor vehicle accidents to 9%.
Driving Under the Influence
Driving while impaired due to drug or alcohol use is another serious problem in Florida. Alcohol consumption increased during Covid, exacerbating this issue. Drunk drivers put themselves and others at significant risk of catastrophic injury or fatality. Impaired drivers caused 355 drunk driving accidents in 2022, leading to 323 fatalities and 253 severe injuries.
Drunk or high drivers can’t react to changing conditions fast enough. Alcohol and drugs also affect judgment and decision-making ability. Drivers may be more likely to speed up or take other unnecessary risks. Impaired coordination also increases the likelihood of a wreck.
Reckless Driving
Tailgating, aggressive lane changes, and ignoring traffic signals are all too common on Florida roads. These actions put everyone on the road at risk, including the driver. Aggressive driving can escalate quickly in heavy traffic or during unfavorable weather conditions.
Inexperienced Drivers
Florida’s appeal to new residents and tourists creates a unique driving environment. Some may not know the traffic laws or understand the complex road network. Inexperienced drivers can inadvertently cause accidents due to their lack of knowledge or unfamiliarity with the area.
Defective Parts
Car accidents in Florida sometimes result from defective vehicle parts or maintenance issues. Examples may include faulty brakes, worn-out tires, or other mechanical problems compromising a vehicle’s safety. The combination of hot and humid weather in Florida can also exacerbate wear and tear on vehicle components, making regular maintenance even more crucial.
Determining Liability in a Car Accident Lawsuit
When a car accident occurs, determining liability is crucial to hold the responsible party accountable. Attorneys typically establish liability through an investigation that considers common causes of car accidents. These factors include driver negligence, traffic violations, witness statements, etc.
Multiple parties may share liability for an accident, making a case much more complicated. But skilled attorneys know how to determine liability, no matter how many parties may share the blame.
No-Fault Insurance for Common Car Accidents in Florida
Florida operates under a no-fault insurance system. Under this system, regardless of who is at fault in an accident, your insurance company covers your initial medical expenses and lost wages. The primary goal of this system is to provide swift compensation and reduce the burden on the court system.
However, it’s important to note that while no-fault insurance can expedite the process, disputes can arise when seeking compensation for severe injuries or damages that exceed policy limits. In such cases, an attorney can work with you to determine how to maximize compensation for your car accident claim.
Types of Damages in Car Accident Cases
Car accidents can result in significant physical, emotional, and financial burdens. If you have been involved in a crash caused by another party, you may be entitled to seek damages. These personal injury damages are broken into several categories to address specific losses you may face.
Economic Damages
Economic damages are designed to compensate for measurable financial losses incurred as a result of the accident. These include medical expenses, such as hospital bills, therapy, and ongoing treatments.
Additionally, if the accident affects your ability to work, you may recover lost wages or compensation for reduced earning capacity. Property damage, like costs for repairing or replacing your vehicle, also falls under this category.
Non-Economic Damages
Non-economic damages address losses that do not have a direct monetary value but significantly affect your quality of life. This type of compensation may include pain and suffering resulting from physical injuries, as well as emotional distress caused by the incident.
Loss of enjoyment of life, which refers to the inability to engage in daily or recreational activities, may also be considered in these claims. A skilled car accident lawyer will assess your case and determine the type of damages you can claim with proof.
Punitive Damages
While not applicable in all cases, punitive damages may be awarded in situations where the at-fault party demonstrated particularly reckless or intentional behavior. These damages are intended not only to penalize the wrongdoer but also to deter others from engaging in similar conduct in the future.
Benefits to Hiring a Florida Car Accident Attorney
A car accident can leave you overwhelmed with medical bills, insurance claims, and repair costs. In these moments, a Florida car accident attorney can be an invaluable resource. Here’s how they can help:
Understanding Your Legal Rights and Options
Many people are not fully aware of their rights following a car accident. An experienced attorney can explain your legal options, whether it involves filing a lawsuit or negotiating with an insurance company. They will also help you pursue your claim where the at-fault driver is uninsured. Their expertise ensures you make informed decisions without jeopardizing your claim.
Negotiating with Insurance Companies
Insurance adjusters often prioritize minimizing payouts, which can leave you with inadequate compensation. A car accident attorney acts as your advocate, handling all communications with the insurer to ensure you receive a fair settlement. They have the skills to counter lowball offers and push for the compensation you deserve.
Maximizing Your Compensation
Accurately estimating the value of damages after a car accident can be complicated. Beyond medical bills, you may be entitled to compensation for lost wages, emotional distress, and long-term disability. Attorneys carefully assess all factors to pursue a settlement that truly reflects your losses.
Investigating Your Personal Injury Case
To strengthen your claim, car accident attorneys gather essential evidence like police reports, medical records, witness statements, and even expert opinions. A thorough investigation ensures no detail is overlooked, enhancing your chance for success.
Dealing With Complex Legal Procedures
Legal processes for car accident claims can be time-consuming and complicated. Missing deadlines or filing incomplete paperwork can harm your case. Attorneys ensure every step is handled correctly and promptly, giving you peace of mind.
By working with a Florida car accident attorney, you increase your chances of a successful claim while reducing the stress of managing the legal process alone.
Contact Werner, Hoffman, Greig & Garcia to Speak with a Car Accident Attorney ASAP After Your Accident
If you suffer an injury in a Florida car accident that wasn’t your fault, speak with the experts at Werner, Hoffman, Greig & Garcia. We can help you navigate the complex legal landscape, negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf, and work to secure a fair settlement or take your case to court if necessary.
Whether you were injured in a Miami car accident, lost a loved one in a Homestead drunk driving accident, totaled your vehicle after a collision with a speeding driver in Doral, or suffered some kind of loss in a Florida car accident caused by another driver, WHG is here to assist you in recovering compensation for common causes of car accidents.
Schedule a free case review by calling (800) 320-HELP or using our online form.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is the average car accident settlement?
The amount of your settlement can vary widely depending on factors such as the severity of injuries, property damage, liability, and insurance policy limits. An experienced attorney will assess the specific details and circumstances of your accident. They’ll then work to ensure you get every dollar you deserve.
How long do I have to file a car accident claim in Florida?
In Florida, the statute of limitations is two years from the accident date. If you let it expire, you won’t be able to pursue compensation.
However, you need to start the legal process immediately. The investigation into your case must begin as early as possible to preserve evidence.
What should I do after a Florida car accident?
After a car accident in Florida, your immediate priority should be ensuring your safety and the safety of others involved. Do the following as soon as you can.
- If possible, move your car off of the road.
- Call 911 to report the accident and seek medical attention.
- Exchange information with the other parties.
- Gather evidence (photos, witness contact information) and document the scene.
- Contact your insurance company to report the accident
- Contact an experienced car accident attorney to protect your rights and interests.
