With mild weather, spring break, bike week, and theme parks, people come from all over the world to visit Central Florida in March and April. This influx of tourists and locals attending various events increases the chances of accidents. According to accident report data, March is consistently the month with the most car accidents in Florida. In 2024, there were 34,199 traffic accidents in March, 43% of which included injuries. Below, our Ocala car accident attorney shares the best ways to prevent accidents this spring break season.
Avoid Distracted Driving
Distracted driving, a leading cause of all traffic accidents, resulted in 284 crash fatalities last year. Any action that impacts your manual, visual, or cognitive ability to operate your vehicle is considered distracted driving. The most common form is texting while driving, which is illegal in Florida. Florida Statute 316.305 prohibits texting, reading emails, scrolling social media, or web browsing while a vehicle is in motion. However, other forms of distraction are equally dangerous, such as eating, applying makeup, tending to young children, dealing with a pet, or conversing with passengers. The consequences of these actions can be severe, making it crucial to avoid them at all costs.
View our list of distracted driving do’s and don’ts.
Don’t Drive Under the Influence
According to FLHSMV, 86% of accidents involving drivers under the influence of drugs or alcohol result in a fatality. You can be arrested for DUI if you operate a vehicle with a blood alcohol level over .08. However, law enforcement can arrest you for DUI if your normal faculties have been impacted by drug or alcohol use, even if you test below the legal limit. It’s important to note that DUI doesn’t just pertain to misusing illegal drugs or overdrinking. It also includes taking medications that affect your cognitive function while driving. Read all the details and warning labels on your prescriptions before driving.
Stay Safe as a Pedestrian
Florida ranks second in the nation for pedestrian accident deaths. Our Ocala car accident attorneys also see increased pedestrian incidents during this time of year. Whether crossing A1A to the beach or shopping through Mount Dora, it’s crucial to follow pedestrian safety laws to prevent accidents. Always use designated crosswalks and only cross when indicated. Don’t use your phone or headphones while crossing the street, either. If you’re walking or jogging at night, carry a flashlight, wear reflective clothing, and use a walking path as much as possible.
Adhere to the Speed Limit
Speeding is the most common form of reckless driving. Speeding accounts for over a quarter of all crash fatalities in the US. Observe speed limit signs, paying close attention to reduced speed areas such as school or work zones. If you see an accident on the side of the road, slow down and move over into the other lane whenever possible. Many accidents occur when a speeding vehicle runs into a stopped car that sought roadside assistance on a major highway.
Take a Break if You’re Drowsy
The impacts of drowsy driving are similar to driving while intoxicated. You experience slower reaction times, delayed judgment, and impacted vision. Fatigued drivers can also experience micro-sleeping, where you fall asleep for a few seconds. These few seconds could have life-altering effects on you and the drivers around you. While pushing through your tiredness, drinking coffee, or gulping energy drinks may provide a momentary shot of additional energy, they’re not long-term solutions. Note any medications that may cause drowsiness and avoid driving until you understand their effects.
Become Familiar with Florida Laws
Another common cause of accidents in Florida in March is an increase in out-of-state visitors unfamiliar with Florida roads and laws. This increases the likelihood of accidents as new Florida drivers may not expect driving behaviors that aren’t practiced in other states, such as the frequency of U-turns or split highways. As your local Ocala accident attorney, we’re familiar with Central Florida’s major roadways and will investigate the circumstances of your case to determine who is responsible for your injuries.
Injured in a Car Accident? Call our Ocala Car Accident Attorneys
The King Law Firm helps accident victims in Ocala, The Villages, Marion County, and Lake County get the compensation they’re entitled to after an accident. View our recent results for our clients. Then, call us at 352-629-8747 for a free consultation to discuss your case.
