Are Floridians Bad Drivers?

Discover whether car accident statistics support the stereotype that Floridians are bad drivers and learn what that means for your safety.

Summary

• Florida has an unfortunate reputation for bad drivers, consistently ranking near the top of lists of the most dangerous states in the US to drive.
• Impaired driving, distractions, and reckless driving are among the most common causes of car accidents.
• Taking the necessary steps after a car accident can protect your health and strengthen your case.
• There are several ways you can improve your driving skills.
• Car accident victims can pursue damages, such as medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and others.

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Far too many people in Florida are injured or killed in car accidents every year, and negligent driving is one of the most common reasons. If you or a loved one has been hurt or killed due to the negligence of another motorist, turn to the Jones Law Group.

We have passionate, skilled auto accident attorneys who will work extremely hard to make sure you get the compensation you deserve. If you would like a free case review, please use our online contact form or give us a call at (727) 571-1333.

Is Florida Considered a Safe Place to Drive, Walk, and Bike?

The statistics show that Florida is one of the most unsafe places in the nation to not only drive a car but also to even take a walk or go out for a leisurely bike ride.

In 2019, more than 3,000 people died in car accidents in Florida alone, according to the FLHSMV Traffic Crash Facts Report. That’s a death rate of nearly 15 per 100,000 people. For every 100 million miles people drove in Florida that year, 1.41 people died.

When you compare those numbers to the rest of the United States, the picture is far from pretty. The national death rate was 11 per 100,000 people and 1.11 per 100 million vehicle miles driven across the country.

Florida Pedestrians and Bicyclists Are at a Higher Risk of Injury and Fatality

Feel like taking a walk? You have to be careful no matter where in the U.S. you decide to take a stroll, but you have to be extra careful in Florida.

Between 2010-2019, more than 5,800 pedestrians were struck and killed. Alabama came in second on that list with 936 fatalities. Therefore, it’s at least six times more dangerous to be a pedestrian in Florida than it is in any other state in the country.

The numbers are just as bad when it comes to riding a bicycle.

Florida averages nearly 6 deaths among cyclists per 1 million residents – the worst ranking in the U.S. for fatal bicycle accidents. There are a lot of reasons bicycling is so dangerous in Florida. There are far too many streets that lack bicycle lanes whatsoever, forcing cyclists to be near motorists.

How Do Florida Drivers Rank When Compared to Other States?

When you look at just about any list ranking the worst drivers in America, Florida consistently ranks at or near the bottom. According to one study by Finder, Florida ranked 10th in 2020 among the worst drivers in the country. This took into account factors including not only fatalities but also uninsured motorists and DUIs.

Floridians also appear to be the angriest drivers in the U.S. Autowise.com, an automobile insurance website, published an article stating that the highest number of angry tweets regarding driving came from Florida. The site went so far as to state that Florida is the “official home of the horrible driver.”

Why are Florida Drivers so Bad?

Floridians have a reputation for being bad drivers. Out-of-town tourists are especially critical. Unfortunately, it appears that that reputation is well earned. Florida routinely ranks near the top in many categories – all of them bad – that relate to driving. Driving under the influence and driving without insurance are major issues in Florida.

Is Bad Driving the Most Common Cause of Florida Car Accidents?

But bad driving is anything but a laughing matter. There are a lot of different types of negligent driving, and they can lead to catastrophic injuries as well as fatalities when they cause car accidents. Here are just a few typical examples of how negligent driving occurs.

• Intoxicated driving: Operating a motor vehicle under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol is obviously against the law. But that doesn’t stop people throughout the state from doing just that. Impaired motorists will usually exhibit risky behavior behind the wheel, such as running red lights and speeding.
• Dangerous intersections: While this isn’t just a Florida problem, the state seems to have more than its fair share of accidents at intersections. Side-impact accidents occur far too often due to someone running a red light or a stop sign. These collisions often have devastating consequences.
• Recklessness: A lot of people make dangerous maneuvers, such as illegal U-turns, because they figure they can get away with them. A lot of times, this can lead to a potentially catastrophic collision, with not only another vehicle but also a pedestrian or bicyclist the driver doesn’t see.

Whether you reside in Lealman, Gulfport, Pinellas Park, or a St. Pete neighborhood like Magnolia Heights, car accidents typically involve driver error.

Injuries Caused by Car Accidents in Florida

There are many types of serious injuries people suffer in car accidents. While it might not be fatal, a common spinal car accident injury such as a slipped or herniated disc can be incredibly painful. For some, the pain is so excruciating they find it almost impossible to perform even the most basic of everyday tasks.

Another common car accident injury affects the soft tissue. Known as whiplash, it typically occurs in rear-end collisions. When a driver’s car is hit from behind, the driver and any passengers in the vehicle move forward extremely quickly.

This leads to the head being violently slung backward or “whipped.” Consequently, this puts an incredible amount of pressure on the lower jaw muscles, leading to severe facial injuries. Whiplash also damages the muscles in the back and neck.

If a driver strikes their head during a car accident their concussion risk increases. They may sustain a traumatic brain injury even without any visible external damage, which is why it is crucial to seek medical attention after a Florida car accident.

What to Do When You’re Involved in an Accident With a Bad Driver

Any kind of car accident can be traumatic, even if no one is hurt. If you were injured, it would be natural for you to panic. But if you can, you need to try to keep your head.

Here are some of the things you should try to remember to do after a car wreck:

• Check to see if you’ve been hurt. If possible, check on the other drivers and motorists involved in the accident to see if they’re OK. If you have any reason to believe you’ve suffered an injury, don’t hesitate to get medical attention as soon as possible.
• Call the police so they can make out an accident report, and then take pictures and/or videos if you can. The report, as well as the photos/videos, can provide the powerful evidence you need to prove you deserve compensation.
• Get the contact information of the other driver or drivers, and then notify your insurance company.
• After you’ve done all of the above, get in touch with an attorney as soon as possible.

How to Become a Better Driver in Florida

Becoming a better driver means cultivating safe habits and taking a proactive approach to road safety. Here are a few tips to improve your driving skills and promote a safer driving experience for you and everyone who shares the road.

• Keep up with traffic laws: Familiarize yourself with speed limits, road signs, and how to navigate intersections safely.
• Avoid distractions: Never talk and text when driving. According to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, distracted driving caused 54,887 accidents in our state in 2022. These accidents led to 283 deaths and 2,655 severe injuries.
• Drive defensively: Defensive driving means always being aware of your surroundings, anticipating potential hazards, and being prepared to react to the unexpected. Always keep a safe following distance, take precautions at intersections, and use your mirrors – especially when turning or changing lanes. 
• Adapt to changing weather: If you’ve lived in Florida for a while, you know we have unpredictable weather. You never know when a thunderstorm will arrive during spring and summer. Always be extra cautious during bad weather. Don’t make any sudden moves, and turn on your headlights.
• Keep your car maintained: Regular maintenance is critical to safe driving. Check your tires, lights, brakes, and fluid levels routinely to ensure your vehicle is in top condition. 

Damages You Can Recover After a Bad Driver Causes an Accident

If you suffer an injury due to another driver’s negligence, you’ll likely be eligible to pursue compensation for your accident-related expenses, also known as damages. These are just a few examples.

• Medical bills
• Lost wages
• Emotional distress
• Pain and suffering
• Property damage

Recovering your damages typically involves filing a car accident claim and working with insurance companies. Unfortunately, insurers typically refuse to offer fair settlements. If that happens to you, a skilled car accident attorney can help you get the money you deserve.

How to Bring a Personal Injury Claim Against a Negligent Driver

In the aftermath of a car accident, understanding your rights and the process for filing a claim is crucial, especially in a no-fault state like Florida. While your own insurance may cover initial expenses, pursuing a claim against a negligent driver can help recover additional damages. 

The guide below will walk you through the essential steps to take if you find yourself in such a situation.

Step 1: Understand the No-Fault Insurance System

Florida’s no-fault insurance system requires drivers to first seek compensation from their own insurance company, regardless of who caused the accident. This is covered under Personal Injury Protection (PIP), which can cover medical bills and lost wages up to a specified limit of $10,000. 

However, if your injuries are severe and exceed the coverage provided by PIP, you may have grounds to pursue a claim against the negligent driver.

Step 2: Gather Evidence

After ensuring everyone’s safety, calling for medical assistance, and alerting the authorities, it’s important to collect evidence from the accident scene. Take photographs of the vehicles involved, obtain contact information from witnesses, and document any visible injuries. 

This evidence can be crucial in supporting a case for injured Floridians who decide to file claims against bad drivers.

Step 3: Contact a Car Accident Lawyer

Dealing with accident claims can be overwhelming, which is why consulting with a seasoned car accident lawyer is invaluable. An experienced attorney will assess your case, help determine the viability of your claim, and ensure all necessary documentation is properly filed. 

They can also negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf to seek fair compensation. Look for a local law firm, such as a Madeira Beach car accident lawyer, for convenience and expertise.

Step 4: File a Claim

If your injuries meet the necessary threshold, your lawyer will assist in filing a lawsuit against the negligent driver. 

This step involves submitting detailed documentation, including medical records and evidence from the accident, to prove the other driver’s liability and the extent of your damages.

Step 5: Pursue Compensation

Once the claim is filed, your FL auto accident lawyer will work diligently to secure the compensation you deserve. This may include damages for pain and suffering, medical expenses, and any lost income due to the accident. 

Throughout this process, your lawyer will keep you informed and advocate for your best interests.

Why It Is Important to Hire a Florida Auto Accident Lawyer

Engaging the services of a seasoned Jones Law Group Florida car accident lawyer is pivotal after experiencing an auto accident. Maneuvering Florida’s no-fault insurance laws can be daunting, and having a knowledgeable attorney ensures your rights are protected.

A skilled lawyer will evaluate your case, helping you understand the nuances of potential claims and the compensation you might be entitled to.

An experienced attorney from Jones Law Group is adept at gathering and preserving critical evidence that can substantiate your claim. From medical records to eyewitness accounts, they ensure that no stone is left unturned in building a strong case. 

They can also expertly negotiate with insurance companies, who often aim to minimize payout to secure a fair settlement that covers medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages.

In the unfortunate event that a satisfactory settlement cannot be reached, your lawyer can take your case to court, advocating fiercely on your behalf. With their support, you can focus on recovery, knowing that a committed legal professional is handling your case, striving to achieve the best possible outcome for you.

Contact a Florida Attorney If You’ve Been Injured Because of Someone Else’s Negligence

Why is it so important to get in touch with a skilled lawyer as fast as you can? The sooner you hire an attorney, the sooner they can get to work gathering the evidence needed to prove your case.

An accident scene can quickly change due to weather conditions, unscrupulous insurance companies, and others. You need proof that you’re not to blame for the accident that occurred.

You’ll also want an experienced car accident attorney to negotiate on your behalf with insurance companies. They’re going to do everything they can to pay you as little as possible or not to pay you at all.

Many Floridians are bad drivers, but that does not mean you should have to pay the price for their recklessness. Jones Law Group has a team of experienced car accident attorneys and an impressive track record of success. Take advantage of both by calling (727) 571-1333 or contacting us online.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to hire a car accident lawyer?

You’ll need legal help to have the best chance of obtaining fair compensation for your damages. An attorney knows how to investigate to determine fault, negotiate with insurance companies, and handle all of the other complexities involved in your case.

How long do I have to file a car accident claim in Florida?

Florida’s statute of limitations is two years. If you don’t take legal action within two years of the accident date, you’ll lose your opportunity to obtain compensation. You must contact an attorney immediately so they can protect your rights.

How much money will I receive for my car accident settlement?

Many factors will determine your compensation. These include the cost of your medical treatment, the severity of your injury, your lost wages, and many others. An experienced lawyer can evaluate the details of your case and estimate how much money you could receive.