Staying Safe on Florida Roads: Tips on Preventing Car Accidents
With an estimated 39,000 traffic accidents in 2022, Orlando’s metropolitan area can seem like a dangerous place to drive. Streets and highways are frequently packed with vehicles, many heading to the area’s theme parks and nearby beaches. Intersections can also present a unique risk, not all motorists follow traffic laws, However, if you’re planning on hitting the road in Orlando, or anywhere else in Florida, you can take some steps to help reduce your chances of being involved in a vehicle accident.
Tips on Reducing Your Risk of a Vehicle Accident
In 2021, Florida marked an unfortunate milestone: according to the Florida Department of Health, the number of injuries sustained in car accidents surpassed the national average by 15.2%.
While this is the current available data, the numbers aren’t expected to decrease for the current year. This means all drivers should take steps to reduce their risks of being involved in an automobile collision.
Keep Both Hands on the Wheel
You may think driving in a relaxed position with one hand on the steering wheel looks cool. However, you’re also increasing your risk of being in a car accident. Taking a hand off the wheel makes it harder to control the vehicle, and your reaction time is also reduced.
For example, you may not be able to react in time to avoid hitting a hazard on the road. The vehicle can also drift into another lane but now, you’re the hazard other drivers are trying to avoid.
Before starting the vehicle, set your radio station and adjust the volume. If you're using the onboard GPS or a phone app, set the coordinates before taking off. While eating and drinking are common driving behaviors, wait to snack or sip your coffee until the vehicle is safely parked.
Watch for Pedestrians and Cyclists
Yes, pedestrians and bike riders are required to follow basic traffic laws like using crosswalks at intersections and stopping at red lights. Most pedestrians and cyclists do obey road safety rules but not everyone.
Even though Florida is a no-fault insurance state. This means everyone involved in an accident turns to their insurance to cover damages like medical costs and lost wages. The Sunshine State also follows comparative negligence rules so even if a cyclist crosses the street against a red light you may still be on the hook for some of their damages if an accident occurs.
Pay attention to what’s going on beside, in front, and behind your vehicle. Even backing out of a parking space can result in an accident if you’re not focusing on your driving.
Don’t Tailgate Another Vehicle
Tailgating is when a vehicle is following too closely behind the lead car. Chances are you’ve probably witnessed this driving behavior at least once on Florida roads. You know, when the rear car is following so close to the lead vehicle’s bumper it looks like one is towing the other.
Did you know tailgating is illegal in Florida? If an officer notices you following another vehicle too close, you can end up with a traffic ticket. Don’t worry, the potential penalties don’t include jail time, only a fine. However, you may notice an increase in your insurance rates. Tailgating is viewed as risky driving behavior and it’s something insurance companies aren’t fond of.
So, why is tailgating so dangerous? If the lead vehicle suddenly slows down or brakes, you may not be able to stop in time. If you rear-end another vehicle, chances are, you’re the at-fault driver and may be responsible for covering some or all of the other driver’s damages. Not to mention your tailgating accident can start a chain reaction, causing a multi-vehicle pileup.
Be Cautious at Intersections
An estimated 30% of all traffic fatalities in Florida occur in intersection accidents. No, motorists aren’t always barreling through intersections hoping for the best. The statistic only indicates how dangerous intersections can be for everyone.
Before pulling into an intersection, always check for traffic in all directions, even if you have a green light or turn arrow. Some drivers use yellow lights as a sign to go faster. Your light may turn green while the speeding driver is still crossing the intersection. If you pull forward, there’s a good chance of being involved in a collision.
You’re not only checking for other motorists but also cyclists and pedestrians. Checking to ensure the intersection is clear is an effective way of reducing your vehicle accident risk.
Pass Semi-Trucks with Caution
Semi-trucks aren’t a common sight in the metropolitan area, but they’re present on the highways and freeways around Orlando. When passing an 18-wheeler, it’s a good idea to use caution and some common sense.
Large trucks have blind spots on the sides, rear, and in front. You don’t want to stay in a truck’s blind spot any longer than necessary. If the driver can’t see you, they may not know you’re there. You may end up being squeezed into another lane or sideswiped by the big rig.
If you need to pass a semi-truck, try to ensure the driver knows you’re pulling briefly alongside. Don’t merge in front of a truck until you’re positive there’s plenty of room. A good tip is to wait to merge until you can see the truck driver or at least the front license plate.
Keep Up with Vehicle Maintenance
There’s a reason your auto mechanic nags you about routine maintenance—it’s one of the easiest ways to ensure your vehicle is safe to drive and doesn’t pose a threat to other motorists.
Changing your tires before the tread disappears is a start. Don’t forget about alignment and an oil change. These simple maintenance steps can go a long way towards preventing an accident.
What To Do If You’re In a Car Wreck
Sometimes, even taking precautions isn’t enough to prevent a vehicle accident, and if you’re involved in a car collision, contacting an experienced accident attorney is a wise decision to make.
Your attorney can help you navigate Florida’s no-fault and comparative negligence rules, file a third-party claim, and manage all the details, allowing you to focus on your recovery. Their professional guidance can help guarantee that your case is handled effectively, increasing the likelihood of receiving the compensation you deserve.
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