In Florida, car accidents are common. There are few Americans who haven't experienced car accidents. Approximately 350,000 vehicle collisions occur each year in the state of Florida. While some crashes cause only minor damage, others can lead to serious injuries or even loss of life. Many of these accidents are caused by factors like speeding, distracted driving, poor road conditions, and more. 

Understanding the common reasons for car accidents can help you stay safe. With 15 million drivers in Florida, it’s crucial to protect yourself and others. Let’s explore the top causes and how to prevent them. 

12 Most Common Causes of Car Accidents in Florida  

Knowing what can cause terrible car accidents on the road can help drivers avoid dangerous situations and stay safe behind the wheel. Here are the top 12 causes of car accidents in Florida:-

1. Driving under the influence

One of the leading causes behind Florida car accidents is Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Impaired drivers have slower reaction times, poor judgment, and reduced coordination. It makes them a serious danger on the road. 

Despite strict DUI laws in Florida, many people still make the mistake of driving after consuming alcohol or drugs. Even small amounts of alcohol can affect driving abilities. Ultimately it leads to accidents with severe injuries or fatalities. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), DUI is responsible for 32% of fatal crashes each year.

2. Speeding

The next most common cause is exceeding the speed limit or driving too fast for road conditions. Speeding reduces a driver’s ability to react to sudden changes, like a car stopping ahead or an unexpected obstacle. It also increases the severity of crashes, making injuries more likely and more severe. In Florida, highways and city roads can both be dangerous places when drivers fail to obey speed limits.

3. Distracted driving

Distracted driving, such as texting, eating, or using a GPS while driving, is another significant cause of car accidents. In Florida, laws prohibit texting while driving. Unfortunately, distractions come in many forms. Even taking your eyes off the road for a few seconds can lead to a crash. 

Using smartphones, talking to passengers, and even adjusting the radio are common distractions that cause accidents. The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) reports that distracted driving is a leading cause of crashes in the state.

4. Reckless driving

Reckless driving involves aggressive behaviors like tailgating, excessive lane changes, and running red lights. In Florida, reckless drivers often ignore the safety of others. In the end, they cause dangerous situations and high-speed collisions. Reckless driving shows a complete disregard for traffic laws and safety. Also, it makes one of the most serious threats on the road.

5. Drowsy driving

When you are driving but feeling fatigued or sleepy it definitely causes accidents. Drowsy drivers often experience slowed reaction times and may even fall asleep at the wheel. Lack of sleep can impair driving abilities as much as alcohol. 

It’s true that Florida’s long highways and warm weather can make staying awake difficult. But this can ultimately lead to accidents caused by tired drivers. The National Sleep Foundation states that drowsy driving is a significant factor in many car accidents.

6. Disobeying traffic lights and signs

Ignoring stop signs, running red lights, or failing to obey other traffic signals can lead to serious accidents. In Florida, intersections are particularly dangerous. Because drivers who disobey traffic lights or signs may crash into other vehicles, pedestrians, or cyclists. When you fail to follow traffic control devices, it often results in high-impact collisions, which can cause severe injuries or fatalities.

7. Failure to yield

Failing to yield the right-of-way is another common cause of accidents in Florida. Drivers who don’t yield properly can cause serious crashes. It can be at intersections, pedestrian crossings, or merging lanes. Yielding is essential for preventing collisions, especially in high-traffic areas where the risk of accidents is higher.

8. Drifting from a lane

Lane drifting occurs when a driver accidentally or intentionally veers out of their lane. That can cause side collisions, head-on crashes, or run-off-the-road accidents. In Florida, this is often caused by distracted driving, fatigue, or impaired driving. Lane drifting can also occur during lane changes if the driver fails to check blind spots.

9. Weather

Florida’s weather, especially rain and tropical storms, can create wet roads. This leads to reduced traction, making it harder to stop or steer. In severe weather, such as hurricanes or thunderstorms, visibility can be low, and wind gusts can be extremely high. This caused drivers to lose their control and increase the chances of accidents. Some drivers often misjudge their ability to drive safely in bad weather, and this mistake might lead to collisions.

10. Road hazards

Poor road conditions like potholes, spilled gravel, debris, construction zones, oil slicks, and uneven surfaces. These can cause drivers to lose control of their vehicles, especially at high speeds. Florida’s ongoing road construction projects also contribute to accidents, as drivers may be unfamiliar with new traffic patterns or sudden detours.

11. Animals on the road

Car accidents with animals are common in our state. Although deer accidents have become the lowest rate in Florida. However, along with deer, some other animals or pets often wander onto roads. These scenarios are most common, especially in areas near forests or rural highways. 

Because of these wandering animals, drivers need to swerve or brake suddenly which can lead to accidents. At night in rural areas, visibility is lower in maximum time. So, hitting animals or trying to avoid them can lead to severe accidents.

12. Car issues

If you have any Mechanical problems, such as brake failure, tire blowouts, or engine trouble, it can cause your car accidents. Tire blowouts are particularly common in Florida’s hot climate. Because high temperatures can cause tires to wear out faster. 

If you fail to address worn tires, faulty brakes, or other mechanical problems, it can result in loss of control and serious crashes.

How Can You Avoid Them 

“Prevention is better than cure”. Though not all accidents are avoidable. But if you are aware of common causes and practice careful driving, you can significantly reduce your chances of being involved in a crash. Here are some simple but effective tips to help you avoid most car accidents in Florida.

• Never drive if you’ve been drinking alcohol or using drugs. If you plan to drink then use a designated driver, call a taxi, or use a ride-sharing service like Uber or Lyft.

• Follow the speed limit at all times. Slow down, especially in bad weather or heavy traffic.

• Stay focused on the road. Put your phone away, avoid eating, and keep your eyes on driving. If you need to use a GPS, set it before you start driving or pull over to make adjustments.

• Drive calmly. Avoiding aggressive actions like tailgating or weaving in and out of lanes. Don’t rush with other drivers. 

• Make sure you’ve enough rest or sleep before driving. If you feel tired, take a break, switch drivers, or pull over to rest.

• Follow all traffic signals and signs. Always stop at red lights and stop signs, and be mindful of other traffic signals.

• Be aware of when you need to yield. Give other drivers and pedestrians the right-of-way, especially at intersections, roundabouts, and when merging onto highways.

• Stay alert and keep both hands on the steering wheel. Use your mirrors and signals when changing lanes and check blind spots. 

• Drive carefully in bad weather. Slow down, use headlights, and increase the distance between you and the car in front of you. If conditions are too bad, pull over. 

• Watch out for road hazards. Avoid potholes, debris, and uneven surfaces. Report any hazards to local authorities.

• Be extra careful in areas where animals are common. Slow down at night and stop if any animals seem to be crossing the road. 

• Maintain your vehicle regularly.  Checking your tires, brakes, and engine. Address any mechanical problems immediately.

What To Do After Involved In a Car Accident In Florida?

If you have experienced any car crashes, collisions, or any type of automobile accident, contact Robert Johnson, an experienced personal injury and accident attorney. Whether it is your fault or other careless drivers' fault, even if he is an unlicensed driver, just consult with him. If you are injured in car accidents, you have rights for claim. Though there are no-fault insurance rules in florida. Despite that, he can still help you to file a lawsuit or claim against another liable party. 

Robert can assist you with car accidents by providing competent legal advice and representation. If you or your loved one has been injured in a collision, contact Rober for help. He can guide you through the legal system and obtain the justice and recompense you deserve for your injuries. Call him for free consultation at (813) 540-3225 or email at attorneyRobJohnson@gmail.com.