Being in a car accident is something everyone wants to avoid, yet it can seem like they’re becoming more and more common. This is particularly true for drivers in Florida, where accidents and resulting traffic jams can occur weekly, if not daily. Whether you are curious, want to avoid an accident, or have just been in one, it’s understandable to want to know how common car accidents are.
This guide will provide statistics on car accidents in both the United States and Florida and factors that can increase the risk of an accident. In addition, we’re sharing practical advice on what to do if you are in an accident and how an experienced car accident lawyer can help.
Statistics on Car Accidents — United States and Florida
Across the United States, there has been a dramatic increase in car accidents and fatalities over the past three years, but fortunately, there are indications this may have leveled off. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), estimated fatalities dropped 0.3% in 2022 compared to 2021, from 42,795 to 42,939.
In Florida, the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles has released the following statistics for 2022:
- 391,901 total crashes
- 3,490 fatalities from all crashes
- 249,352 injuries from all crashes
These statistics reflect the overall national trend of a reduction or leveling off in accidents compared to the increases in 2020 and 2021. Total accidents fell by approximately 2.4%, while fatalities dropped by approximately 6.7%.
With a population of about 22,244,823 in 2022 and 391,901 total crashes, about 1.8% of Floridians were in a crash in one year alone, with a higher number likely being affected by one in some way. This makes car accidents a relatively common occurrence that everyone should take precautions to avoid.
Factors That Increase the Risk of an Accident
While there is no way to completely avoid the risk of a car accident, a wide range of factors can significantly increase the chances of being in one. Risk factors include:
- Driving while under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- Driving over the speed limit and ignoring traffic control devices
- Driving while being distracted by electronic devices, conversation, loud music, or other distractions
- Being angry or emotionally compromised while driving
- Driving aggressively and recklessly, such as sudden lane changes and following other motorists too closely
- Having a poorly maintained or malfunctioning vehicle
- Driving in bad weather such as rain or snow
- Driving at night
- Being a young or old driver
- Driving without training or a license
Taking every precaution to drive safely and defensively can significantly lower your risk of being in an accident.
What To Do if You Are in an Accident
If you do find yourself in an accident, make sure to take the following critical steps:
- Do not leave the scene of the accident
- If possible, safely remove your vehicle from traffic
- Once you ensure your safety and the safety of the people in your vehicle, check the status of the other party and provide reasonable assistance if anyone is injured
- Notify emergency response personnel and police if necessary
- As soon as possible, take pictures of the accident and damage, and take notes of the events that occurred
- Exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver
- Be cooperative and answer any questions truthfully, but do not admit fault
- Get contact information from any witnesses or bystanders
- Contact your insurance company to report the accident and start the claim process
- Get checked out by a physician as soon as possible and stay on top of treatment
Accidents are highly stressful, potentially life-changing events, and taking every possible step to protect your health, assets, and legal rights is essential.
Been in an Accident? How a Lawyer Can Help
In all but the most minor accidents, people can benefit from the assistance of an experienced attorney. Even if an accident wasn’t your fault and you don’t have serious injuries, it is common to encounter difficulties with your or the other party’s insurance company. With a car accident and personal injury attorney in your corner, you can navigate complicated legal and insurance claim environments to achieve the best possible result. A lawyer will know which questions to ask the other driver and how to obtain documents and critical evidence.
Your attorney can also protect your interests by ensuring you don’t say anything that may be used against you later. Let us help you understand your rights, gather information, and be proactive about your case.
Call Clark Hartpence Law for a Free Consultation
If you were injured in a car accident and don’t know how to move forward, let the team at Clark Hartpence Law help you. We specialize in helping Florida drivers manage accidents so they can move on with their lives. Call us at (855) 680-4911 or schedule a free consultation.
Disclaimer: This content is provided for informational purposes only and does not create an attorney/client relationship.