Given the increasing risks to drivers, passengers, bicyclists and pedestrians, road safety has come to the forefront in Florida and across the United States. Part of that is checking statistics to determine which states have the highest number of accidents and fatalities, analyzing why they happen and forging solutions to reduce their number.
The Sunshine State had a poor ranking in several categories in a recent Assurance IQ study. People taking to the roads should be aware of the dangers they face and take steps to mitigate the risk. When there is an accident, they must also be fully cognizant of the available options.
Florida ranks second in road fatalities
According to the Assurance study, Florida ranks second in having the most fatal accidents for every 100 miles driven. Only California was worse. Researchers also found that Interstate 4 is the riskiest road in the entire nation.
This road is particularly problematic for Florida drivers because it is such a primary artery to reach several prominent locations like Disney World and the attractions in Orlando. On that road alone, there are around 34 collisions for every 100 miles driven. Texas was third in the rankings, but had three of the top five deadliest roads in the U.S.
Assurance’s research was released just as Florida has implemented laws to try and make its roads safer. That includes an enhanced Move Over Law where drivers not only need to move aside for emergency responders, but for any vehicle that has its hazard lights flashing, has emergency flares or displays a sign signifying there is an emergency. That accompanies other strategies including addressing distracted driving. Still, problems persist.
Know the possible consequences of an auto accident
Even if people are extraordinarily cautious and do everything possible to keep from being involved in an auto accident, there are times when it is unavoidable. Other drivers could be reckless, drive too fast, allow themselves to be distracted or drive under the influence. Medical expenses, the inability to work and negative implications for a person’s family can come up because of an auto accident. Fortunately, there are strategies to be compensated for all that was lost. Pursuing them is essential and a key aspect is knowing how to proceed.
