Fort Lauderdale Car Accident Attorney Blog
That time of year is upon us once again — all of the snowbirds are flocking down to the Sunshine State.
It’s no secret that Florida is one of the most popular destinations for winter residents and vacationers alike. Many of them make our home their temporary home. Unfortunately, they’re increasing the risks of car accidents for everyone.
The snowbird population is on the rise as well. Tons of Baby Boomers are stepping into the age of retirement now. With that, Florida is going to see a population surge, reports the U.S. Census Bureau. As a matter of fact, about one out of every five people in the state of Florida is expected to be a senior citizen by 2025. From now until then, we’re expected to gain nearly 7 million residents.
Our Fort Lauderdale car accident lawyers understand that there are snowbirds of all kinds — and there’s a lot of them. Snowbirds can range from the hip 30-something New York City investor, to the baby boomer from Chicago simply looking forward to active twilight years, to even the family of four from Syracuse that’s looking for a refuge from the snow. Regardless of who these people are, the cold hard fact is that they’re here — and they’re increasing risks for car accidents.
If you’ve been out on the road lately, you’ve seen it. We’re talking about that increase in traffic. In addition to the traffic, we have to deal with distracted drivers, teen drivers and aggressive drivers.
Distracted Drivers:
According to the Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA), there are 39 states that ban drivers from texting and 10 that stop drivers from using a cell phone. Florida doesn’t fall under any of those categories. It’s estimated that at least 20 percent of all car accidents involve a distracted driver. Keep your attention on the road and your hands in the wheel. Drive in good faith and avoid distractions of all kinds.
Teen Drivers:
Each year, there are about 2,000 young drivers who are killed in car accidents every year. Another 200,000 are injured in these incidents. Parents are asked to talk with their teen about safe driving habits, especially as we head into the holiday travel season. Car accidents continue to be the leading cause of death for this young age group. Teach them safe driving habits early to help to provide them with a lifetime of traveling safety.
Aggressive Drivers:
With the increase in traffic, everyone’s getting a little irritated behind the wheel. It’s important that we’re all in this together. You’re reminded to abide by all road laws and stay calm. Remember that aggression can lead to speeding, failure to use turn signals, tailgating and even neglect in obeying traffic control devices. All of these dangerous driving behaviors increase your risks for an accident.
If you or your teen driver has been injured or killed in a car accident, contact the injury attorneys of Freeman, Mallard, Sharp & Gonzalez, LLC for a free consultation to discuss your case. Call 1-800-561-7777 today!
More Blog Entries:
St. Lucie Accident Blamed on Red-Light Runner, Fort Lauderdale Car Accident Attorney Blog, October 28, 2012
National Teen Diver Safety Week, Protecting Our Most Vulnerable Drivers, Fort Lauderdale Car Accident Attorney Blog, October 14, 2012