Florida is known for its beautiful beaches, theme parks, and sunny weather. However, it is also known for having one of the highest rates of car accidents in the United States. The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles has stated there were over 401,000 car accidents in the state in 2021 alone. Unfortunately, while Florida is a gorgeous state to travel to, it’s best to stay vigilant and pay attention to those driving. There are many ways for accidents to happen. This can be attributed to several different causes, which we have outlined below.
Distracted Driving
When motorists are distracted by activities such as texting, eating, drinking, talking on their cellphone, or interacting with passengers in their vehicles, they become more prone to accidents. In Boynton Beach, distracted driving is one of the leading causes of accidents and can have devastating consequences for all involved. Section 316.305 Florida Statute prohibits the use of cell phones by drivers when their vehicles are in motion (unless it is in hands-free mode.) Motorists caught violating this law are subject to fines and points on their licenses. It’s important to be aware of your surroundings.
Impaired Driving
Driving while impaired by alcohol or drugs increases the risk of a crash, as these substances can impair judgment and motor skills. In Florida, it’s prohibited to drive with a Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) level that exceeds .08%. As for people under 21 years of age, the legal limit is even lower at just .02% BAC. If you’re stopped and suspected of driving while intoxicated (DUI), officers may require you to take breathalyzers or do field sobriety tests. Consequences for DUI offenses in this state include fines, suspended licenses, jail time, mandated community service hours, and installation of an ignition interlock device.
Reckless Driving
According to Florida Statutes Section 316.192, reckless driving is described as the operation of a motor vehicle in a manner that disregards the safety of others. It’s everyone’s responsibility to uphold all the driving laws. If they don’t it can lead to serious damage. Some common examples include drag racing on the highway, weaving in and out of traffic at high speeds, passing other vehicles on the shoulder of the road, and running red lights or stop signs. Reckless driving is not only dangerous, but it can also lead to criminal penalties such as fines, suspended licenses, and even jail time.
Ignoring Traffic Rules
Many motorists are tempted to ignore traffic rules and regulations to get where they are going faster. However, this could easily lead to a crash. In Boynton Beach, it is one of the leading causes of car accidents. Drivers must obey all traffic rules – from speed limits to yielding – to ensure the safety of everyone else on the road. It is the requirement while being behind the wheel to follow all the traffic laws and be aware of your surroundings. A driver who does not follow that rule can be dangerous and can cause some serious injuries.
When to Engage the Help of an Attorney
Most of the leading causes of road accidents in the sunshine state are caused by human error. If you were engaged in a car crash caused by another motorist’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation. A Boynton Beach car accident attorney at Kogan & DiSalvo in Florida can help you understand your legal rights and guide you through the process of filing an injury claim. It’s best to keep yourself covered. Once you have gathered all the information necessary, a competent legal team will help you throughout your case.
Conclusion
Similar to the larger state of Florida, Boynton Beach has a high rate of car accidents. The most common factors contributing to such crashes include distracted driving, impaired driving, reckless driving, and ignoring traffic rules. Several steps can be taken to reduce the risk of car accidents. These steps include paying attention to the road, avoiding distractions, and respecting traffic laws. It’s best to be aware of what’s happening on the road when you’re driving.
