The number of car accidents in Florida increases during the winter months. Even though Florida isn’t usually subject to winter storms like the rest of the country, they are subject to winter visitors. Unfortunately, this increase in traffic is also leading to more winter visitor car accidents. Here’s what you need to know about filing a claim if you’re injured in a Florida car accident.
What is Winter Visitor Season?
Winter visitor season is the season between mid-October to mid-April when people from all over the country head to Florida to escape the cold winter temperatures. Some visitors are actually dual residents and come down to the sunshine state every winter. Regardless of whether they’re out-of-state visitors or dual residents, more people on the road naturally leads to an increased rate of car accidents.
Common Causes of Car Accidents During Winter Visitor Season
The increase in traffic isn’t the only thing that leads to more car accidents. A few of the other causes include:
- Unfamiliar roads: It may take out-of-state drivers some time to adjust to the new roads, which can lead to accidents.
- Medical issues: Some drivers may have chronic medical issues, which may affect their ability to drive safely. This also includes those that are taking medications, which may slow down reactions.
- Distractions: Out-of-state drivers may rely on navigation systems to get to their destination, and as a result not be paying as much attention to the road as they should be.
Winter visitor season is also during the same time as the holidays. When you add in distracted drivers or drivers who are under the influence, it can create busy, dangerous roads.
How to Stay Safe During Winter Visitor Season
You may not be able to avoid winter visitor season if you live in Florida, but you can take a few steps to stay safe. Here are a few safety tips that can help you avoid an accident:
Avoid Tailgating
Tailgating makes it difficult to come to a stop fast enough to avoid a collision. Keep at least one car’s distance between you and the vehicle in front of you at all times. Make this distance even further when the weather is rainy or foggy.
Avoid Distractions
Distractions while driving can be just as dangerous as driving while under the influence. Avoid using your smartphone or your driver infotainment system when driving. Take advantage of the hands-free features available with your car to avoid distractions.
Know What to Do if You’re in an Accident
Knowing what to do if you’re in an accident is also a good idea. Always report the accident and receive immediate medical care. Depending on the extent of your damages, it may also be worth it to reach out to a Fort Lauderdale personal injury lawyer. A car accident lawyer can help you recover your costs from the accident, including medical bills, lost wages, property damages, and pain and suffering.
Contact a Fort Lauderdale Personal Injury Lawyer to Discuss Your Car Accident Case in Florida
Did you or a loved one sustain serious injuries due to a car accident in Florida? Don’t let the medical bills pile up while you wait for the negligent party or their insurance company to do the right thing. Right now, you need an aggressive personal injury attorney on your side, fighting to get you the compensation you need, want, and deserve. The skilled attorneys at Lawlor, White & Murphey represent clients injured because of a car accident in Fort Lauderdale, Coconut Creek, Plantation, and throughout Florida. Call 954-525-2345 or fill out our online contact form to schedule a free consultation about your case. We have an office conveniently located at 2211 Davie Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33312, as well as offices in Pembroke Pines, Weston, Coconut Creek, Plantation, and Pompano Beach, FL.
The articles on this blog are for informative purposes only and are no substitute for legal advice or an attorney-client relationship. If you are seeking legal advice, please contact our law firm directly.