The Rise in Car Accidents During Snowbird Season in Florida
Snowbird season in Florida comes with an increase in people and vehicle traffic, which increases the risk of car accidents . This season is when people from colder climates come to the sunshine state for the warm weather. While the Sunshine State welcomes these travelers, problems usually arise when international and out-of-state vacationers are not used to the local traffic patterns and rules.
October marks the snowbird season in Florida and lasts until April. During this time, the Floridian population significantly increases and drops back to normal when vacationers come back to their homes from spring. According to Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) data , Florida roadways see more motor vehicle crashes between November and December than they normally do during any other month.
These dangerous months also coincide with the Thanksgiving and Holiday seasons, when kids and teens don’t have school and most adults are off the clock, which means they are out and about in the Sunshine State.
Why Car Accidents are More Common During Snowbird Season
The following are common reasons for the rise in motor vehicle accidents in Florida during snowbird season:
- Unfamiliarity with the roadways – Since tourists are usually unfamiliar with the roadways that they are trying to navigate, they might deliberately or unintentionally engage in various risky driving practices, such as looking at a GPS device or cell phone for directions, making sudden maneuvers or turns, and driving too fast or slow for the conditions.
- Distracted drivers – Out-of-towners are more likely to engage in distracted driving, especially if they are looking at or calling someone for directions or sightseeing while driving. In any case, driving while distracted is immensely hazardous and can lead to catastrophic consequences.
- Fatigued driving – Travelers from other countries and faraway states may travel for hours or days on end to get to the Sunshine State. They may drive while fatigued due to jetlag, long driving hours, and other factors. Driving while fatigued can be just as risky and deadly as driving while drunk or drugged.
- Drunk or drugged driving – Many people go to Florida to experience the famous nightlife scene. But a lot of them also choose to drive while intoxicated, high on drugs, or both.
- Driver inexperience – International and out-of-state visitors may not be aware of local traffic patterns and laws, which may cause them to inadvertently break a law. The same goes for teen drivers who are home for the holidays and do not have that much experience navigating Florida’s roadways. Unfortunately, road users who are following the rules may come in contact with these inexperienced drivers and get into an accident.
Reach Out to a Skilled Tampa, Florida Car Accident Attorney Now
No one should have to bear the financial burdens of an accident that occurred due to the actions of a negligent driver. If you or a loved one has been injured in a crash, discuss your case with a Florida car accident attorney at Matthews Injury Law for legal advice. Set up your free consultation with our Florida car accident attorney by calling 813-530-1000 or contacting us online .