Just when you thought you made it safely through the rush of the holidays — you’re faced with the risks that come along with Snowbirds, tourists and Florida’s high season.
Our Wilton Manor accident lawyers see Florida snowbirds just as the Danish see Sort Sol. Sort Sol, or Black Sun, is referring to the twice-a-year occurrence when starlings flock by the millions and block the sunlight in the Danish sky. It’s kind of like how the northerners flock to our roads, seemingly blocking them from all safe use.
There’s less room on our roadways, there are fewer parking spots at the shopping mall and there are more sidewalks users, like bicyclists and pedestrians. With the increase in this population, we see a serious increase in the risks for accidents.
It makes our drive home from work a lot more frustrating. After a long day on the clock, the last thing any of us want to worry about is traffic delays or even the risks for an accident. With all of these thoughts running through our mind, it can be easily to get distracted. Keep in mind the following tips to help protect yourself against the traffic:
-Avoid the anger. Keep it cool behind the wheel. We all know that the snowbird traffic can be frustrating. But remember that they may not be familiar with the area. Remember they’re probably on “vacation” too, and not rushing home from work. Have some patience. It’s worth your safety.
-Keep an eye on your speed. When you abide by the speed limit, you’ll allow yourself more time to prepare for those who may not be paying attention.
-Stay off their rear and avoid tailgating. You always want to imagine that there’s an invisible car between you and the vehicle in front of you. If you’re unable to find this invisible vehicle, then you’re driving too closely!
-Save the alcohol for home. You never want to drink and drive. Your car is one of the most dangerous places to be when you’re inebriated.
-This may be a no-brainer — but wear a seat belt! Some accidents are unavoidable! Make sure you’re properly buckled in every time you get in the car. Your seat belt is your best defense against injury and even death in the event of a car accident.
-Check the weather, road conditions and traffic reports before heading out. Knowing this kind of information will help you to best navigate your way to where you’ve got to go.
-Keep distractions out of the driver’s seat. Hands on the wheel and eyes on the road! Allow passengers to deal with GPS devices, phone calls and other tasks that require attention. If you’re driving alone, pull over and stop safely before proceeding.
If you or someone you love has been the injured or killed in a car accident, contact Freeman, Mallard, Sharp, & Gonzalez at 1-800-561-7777 for a free and confidential consultation to discuss your rights.
More Blog Entries:
Alligator Alley Car Accident Kills Former Minister and Daughter, Fort Lauderdale Car Accident Attorney Blog, January 26, 2013
Tightening Road Laws for Safer Roadways — Florida Fails, Fort Lauderdale Car Accident Attorney Blog, January 22, 2013