Florida’s roads are some of the busiest in the country because it is home to millions of tourists and residents. Because of these roads, high accident rates are inevitable. According to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, there were almost 400,000 car accidents in Florida in 2022 alone. Had drivers been more attentive to road safety practices, most of these accidents could have been prevented.
This blog post will discuss key road safety tips that will help prevent car accidents and explain what legal rights you have in case you find yourself involved in a car accident in Florida.
Avoid Distracted Driving at All Costs
Across the nation, distracted driving is one of the leading causes of car accidents. Florido is no exception to this. Any activity that distracts you from focusing on the road, such as texting, checking GPS, or eating, increases the risk of an accident. This is the reason why Florida has strict laws that prohibit texting while driving. This is actually a primary offense in Florida. If you are caught texting while driving, you will be pulled over and fined.
To keep yourself from getting distracted, it’s important to always avoid your phone while driving. You can turn off your phone or turn on Do Not Disturb mode. It’s very important to stay focused and vigilant, especially in heavy traffic situations or bad weather conditions. However, if you do end up in an accident because of a distracted driver, you can consult a car accident attorney to help you understand your options for pursuing compensation.
Adhere to Speed Limits at All Times
Speed limits are not implemented for nothing. Actually following speed limits makes roads safer for everyone. There are a lot of instances where accidents were caused because drivers drive recklessly at such high speeds. Always remember that it is not only your life that is in danger if you always go above the speed limit — you also compromise the lives of other people on the road.
Driving your car too fast reduces your ability to react quickly to unexpected hazards, such as sudden stops, animals crossing the street, or road debris. Always make sure that you are vigilant on the road and follow the speed limit at all times. Be extremely careful when it is raining, especially since it happens quite frequently in Florida and can cause slippery roads.
Always Wear Your Seatbelt
Seatbelts have saved countless lives, which is why it’s important to always buckle up. The law in Florida requires all drivers and passengers to wear a seat belt. All passengers below the age of 18 are required to be properly restrained regardless of where they are seated.
Wearing a seat belt is one of the easiest ways to protect yourself while on the road, so never forget to buckle up for your own safety. Sometimes, it could also mean the difference between a minor injury and a fatal one.
What Are Your Legal Rights After an Accident?
Accidents can still happen despite all your best efforts to stay safe. This is why it’s very important to understand your rights under Florida’s no-fault insurance system. This system requires drivers to carry Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage, which actually pays for medical expenses and lost wages regardless of who is to blame in an accident.
In the instance when the accident results in serious injuries, you can always step outside the no-fault system and file a personal injury claim against the at-fault driver. In cases like this, seeking legal advice from a car accident attorney is your best bet. They are well-versed in navigating the complexities of Florida’s legal landscape and maximize your compensation.
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