Miami Accident Lawyer Blog
When you read the data regarding the frequency of car accidents around Miami, you will probably be surprised by the numbers. In its Traffic Crash Facts for 2018, the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) reports that there are almost 65,000 auto collisions every year in Miami-Dade County. Based upon a three-year average, close to 300 people are killed and more than 32,000 victims suffer injuries in these incidents.
However, it is even more concerning to know that most of these crashes are preventable, and that certain careless acts by drivers are behind them. You may qualify to recover monetary damages if you were injured or lost a loved one, and a Miami car accidents attorney can assist with the process. You may also benefit from knowing some of the most common causes of motor vehicle collisions, and what you can do to avoid them.
- Distracted Driving: You know the importance of putting away all electronic devices when you are in the driver’s seat, but many motorists ignore both the safety issues and the laws prohibiting cell phone use. In 2018, there were 236 fatal crashes linked to distracted driving, and more than 45,000 accidents that involved injuries. Note that some of these were not associated with cell phone use, but using the radio, eating, and drinking can also be dangerous forms of distracted driving.
- Speeding: Speed limits are set for a reason, but a large number of motorists would rather get to their destination faster rather than comply with the law. Their negligence leads to more than 400 deaths and almost 12,500 injured victims every year. Do your best to avoid these drivers, and always comply with the posted limit on Miami highways and streets.
- Drunk and Drugged Driving: Driving while under the influence of drugs or alcohol continues to be a problem throughout Florida, where 386 total crashes led to the deaths of 300 in 2018. Another 324 victims suffered injuries. The most dangerous time to be on the road is in the evening and late night, so your best bet to avoid these accidents is to not drive. If that’s not possible, use extra precaution and be aware of swerving or suspicious vehicles.
- Disregarding Traffic Signals: You should always come to a full stop at a light or stop sign, and at least attempt to stop when you see a yellow light. Also, pay close attention to green, yellow, and red turn arrows when turning at an intersection.
Get in Touch with a Miami Car Accidents Lawyer
When you bear in mind these common factors behind auto collisions and do your best to avoid them, you are less likely to be a victim. Still, it is not possible to prevent all crashes, particularly when you know other drivers are not as careful. If you were hurt and want to know more about your rights, please contact the Miami, Fort Lauderdale, or West Palm Beach, FL offices of Gerson & Schwartz, PA. We can set up a no-cost case evaluation to review your circumstances and offer helpful advice.