Car accidents are, unfortunately, a common reality on Florida’s roads. Many people assume that rush hour is responsible for the majority of these vehicle crashes, and though that is in some ways true, fatal car accidents tend to happen much later, usually in the middle of the night or early morning hours.
Familiarizing yourself with the times at which fatal car accidents are most likely to occur may help you avoid putting yourself at risk. Here’s everything you need to know.
What Months Are Deadliest on Florida Roads?
Out of the entire year, December consistently ranks as one of the worst months for fatal car accidents, with March coming in at a close second. The former has the highest number of driving under the influence (DUI)-related fatal crashes, while the latter tends to see the highest number of fatal car accidents as a result of distracted driving.
As for why these months are so egregious, Florida is a popular tourist destination throughout the year. During December, tens of thousands of northerners come down to Florida to avoid the harsh winter weather of their home states, and countless more come to visit family during the holidays.
March is an incredibly busy time for Florida as well, seeing as most schools are closed for Spring Break, and the beach tourist season begins to pick back up as winter comes to a close.
What Time Do Most Fatal Car Accidents Happen in Florida?
The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV) analyzed fatal car accidents between 2017 and 2021 to identify the most dangerous day and time to drive. The research found that Florida roads are most dangerous at 2 a.m. on Sundays.
The likely reason behind that finding is the fact that many people are off from work on Saturdays. Many may choose to go to one of Florida’s thousands of bars or clubs, the majority of which close at around 2 a.m., which helps explain the results of the DHSMV study.
Florida’s Factors That Contribute to a Fatal Car Accident
Several different factors influence fatal car accident trends in Florida, including the following:
Increased Traffic Volume
Florida experiences fluctuations in traffic volume at different times of day and various seasons. December, March’s Spring Break week, and the summer months are some of the busiest times on Florida roads. And when they’re packed with vehicles, there are bound to be more crashes.
There isn’t much you can do about the extra traffic volume, though you can look into local traffic patterns and do your best to avoid periods of heavy congestion. Consider taking an alternate route to work so you can dodge the busiest streets.
Driver Fatigue
Long hours at work or late-night activities can result in tired drivers with slowed reaction times. There is always something to do in Florida, from sports games to concerts and festivals, all of which may prompt drivers to stay up later than they should and get out on the roads while tired.
Impaired Driving
As the DHSMV study alludes to, evening and late-night hours often coincide with social events where alcohol consumption is prevalent, which itself tends to correlate with increased instances of DUIs and fatal car accidents.
If you are driving during these peak social hours, be wary of others who appear to be driving impaired. If you see another vehicle swerving or driving erratically, create some distance and notify local law enforcement; you just might save a life.
Distracted Driving
Distracted driving can occur at any time of day. During rush hours, drivers may be more prone to pick up their mobile phones or pull through the drive-through to grab a bite. Any of these distractions (and others) take their attention off the road and can increase the risk of a deadly crash.
Remain alert and aware of any drivers who don’t seem to be paying attention to the road. Do your part to keep Florida roads safe by putting away the distractions and focusing on the road.
How You Can Reduce Your Risk of Car Crashes
A few different ways to keep you and your family safe while driving in Florida include the following:
Plan Your Travel
Using the information above can help you plan your travels ahead of time. When possible, avoid any unnecessary driving during high-risk months. Stay alert and do your best to avoid rush hour traffic if you have to travel during times like the holiday season and Spring Break.
You should also avoid being on the roads into the early hours of the morning, as the DHSMV study has shown. Keep your eyes peeled for any fellow motorists who appear to be under the influence of drugs or alcohol, and avoid streets that contain popular clubs or bars.
Never Drive Impaired
On the opposite side of the coin, you should never get behind the wheel if you are under the influence of drugs or alcohol. If you have any doubts about whether you can safely drive, err on the side of caution by using rideshare service or calling a taxi.
Stay Alert
You can’t control what other drivers do, and you can’t stay off the road through the entirety of December or March. However, you can stay alert and focused every time you get behind the wheel. That’s a great habit to develop and use at all times of the year, not just during especially risky periods.
Avoid Distractions
Avoid the temptation to pick up your phone or get immersed in your car’s infotainment system; even a momentary lapse in focus can lead to a life-changing crash. Putting away these distractions and using hands-free technology will help keep your eyes on the road.
Hold Negligent Parties Accountable in a Car Crash With The Schrier Law Group
If you or a loved one has sustained injuries in a car accident in Florida, the Schrier Law Group is here to help fight for you. Our experienced attorneys also represent individuals who have lost loved ones in fatal car accidents. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation for a Florida car accident.
