Most Injury Crashes in Florida Happen in What Conditions?

When the topic of car accidents is discussed, most people think of them in terms of property damage and injury. However, some crashes are more severe than others and are more likely to result in serious injury or death. In Florida, statistics show that there are more serious injury crashes than in other states, with almost 3,000 injury crashes happening each year. So what conditions and circumstances are most likely to cause these injury crashes? Let’s take a look.

Alcohol-Related Crashes

In Florida, nearly 40 percent of all injury and fatal crashes in 2018 were related to alcohol use. These crashes are most likely to happen during the weekend after dark, when drivers are more likely to be drinking. Drivers who are under the influence of drugs or alcohol are more likely to take risks, drive erratically, and make mistakes that can lead to serious crashes. In addition, intoxicated drivers are more likely to be involved in a crash when their blood alcohol levels are higher than 0.08 percent.

Speeding and Reckless Driving

Speeding and reckless driving are also major causes of injury and fatal crashes in Florida. Speeding is a factor in nearly one-third of all injury crashes, and reckless driving is a factor in more than one-quarter of all injury crashes. Drivers who speed or drive recklessly often take risks that can lead to deadly consequences. They may not be able to react quickly enough if a pedestrian or another vehicle suddenly appears in the road, and they often don’t have enough time to avoid a crash.

Distracted Driving

Distracted driving is another major cause of injury crashes in Florida. Distracted driving includes activities such as texting, talking on the phone, eating, or using a navigation system while driving. Drivers who are distracted may not be able to react quickly enough if a pedestrian or another vehicle suddenly appears in the road, and they often don’t have enough time to avoid a crash. Distracted driving is also a factor in more than one-third of all injury crashes.

Bad Weather Conditions

Bad weather conditions are also a major factor in injury and fatal crashes in Florida. Heavy rain, fog, and high winds can make it difficult for drivers to see the road ahead and to react quickly if a pedestrian or another vehicle suddenly appears in the road. In addition, bad weather can cause roads to become slick and slippery, making it more likely for a driver to lose control of their vehicle.

In Florida, alcohol-related crashes, speeding and reckless driving, distracted driving, and bad weather conditions are the most common causes of injury and fatal crashes. Drivers should always be aware of their surroundings and drive defensively to avoid these types of crashes. By doing so, drivers can help reduce the number of serious injury and fatal crashes in Florida.