Florida’s summer months bring more than sunshine and beach traffic, but they also bring a noticeable increase in car accidents. With schools out, more teen drivers on the road, and an influx of tourists and holiday travel, summer is one of the most dangerous times to drive in the Sunshine State.
Understanding the risks and taking steps to protect yourself behind the wheel can help you avoid serious accidents and injuries. Whether you’re planning a road trip or commuting locally, here’s what you need to know about staying safe on Florida’s roads this summer from trusted automotive attorneys.
Florida Summer Driving Risks
There are several factors that make Florida’s roads more dangerous during the summer months:
Rainy Season Hazards
Florida’s summer is also its wet season. Frequent afternoon storms create slippery roads and reduce visibility, increasing the likelihood of hydroplaning or rear-end collisions.
More DUI & Distracted Driving Incidents
Summer holidays like the Fourth of July and Memorial Day often lead to a rise in impaired driving. Combine that with more drivers texting, navigating unfamiliar areas, or using GPS apps, and you have a dangerous mix.
Teen and Seasonal Drivers
With school out, many teen drivers hit the road with limited experience. Florida also sees an influx of tourists and part-time residents during the summer months, many of whom are unfamiliar with local roads and traffic patterns.
Tips for Staying Safe
Follow these summer safety tips to protect yourself from a collision:
Defensive Driving
Looking out for your safety while driving goes beyond simply obeying traffic laws. Defensive driving includes being attentive to your surroundings, anticipating potential hazards, and making informed strategic driving decisions.
Check Tire Pressure & Brakes
Before going on long drives, it’s important to take a minute to ensure your tire pressure is normal and that there are no issues with your brakes. Incorrect tire pressures or worn brakes can reduce handling, making it harder for you to control your car during crucial moments.
Avoid Peak Holiday Travel Times
When the roads are busier, more accidents are bound to happen. The easiest way to keep yourself safe is to avoid the roads during peak travel times, which fall between 2 p.m. and 7 p.m., according to the New York Post.
What to Do If You’re in an Accident
Even with the best precautions, car accidents still happen. If you’re involved in a crash this summer, taking the right steps immediately afterward is critical to protecting your health and your legal rights.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Remain calm and check for any injury.
- Move impacted vehicles out of traffic.
- Call 911 to report the accident.
- Exchange information with the other driver and take photos.
- Notify your insurance company.
Why Documentation is Critical
After a car accident, taking photos and gathering information may not be top of mind, but it’s one of the most important steps you can take. Documenting the scene, vehicle damage, injuries, and witness details can help prove what happened and strengthen your claim. Clear evidence is often the key to securing fair compensation.
When to Contact a Personal Injury Attorney
Once you’ve received medical attention and are safe, your next step should be to contact a personal injury attorney at Ginnis, Krathen & Zelnick. Legal guidance early on can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. Here are a few signs it’s time to speak with a lawyer:
- There is a significant injury.
- It is unclear who is at fault.
- The accident report did not clearly describe what happened.
- The accident took place in a construction zone or other protected area.
- There are issues with insurance.
Book Your Free Consultation Today
Summer driving in Florida comes with increased risks, but knowing how to stay safe and what to do if an accident occurs can make all the difference. At Ginnis, Krathen & Zelnick, our automotive attorneys are here to help guide you through the legal process and fight for the compensation you deserve.
If you or someone you know is injured in a summer accident, don’t wait. Book your free consultation today.