Every year in Florida, fatal accidents take the lives of thousands of residents who are both drivers, passengers, and pedestrians. It is difficult for family members to move forward after they have lost somebody in a serious, life-threatening collision. By understanding the many ways that fatal accidents occur on our roads, we can get a better grasp on how these accidents can be prevented.

Causes of Fatal Accidents in Florida

Drowsy Driving: Drowsy driving continues to be a major issue on Florida roads and everywhere else across the U.S. When a driver has not slept enough, is suffering from a sleep disorder, or they have been drinking alcohol, they are more likely to fall asleep at the wheel, which can put other parties at risk. Falling asleep at the wheel is a dangerous act that takes lives, which is why drivers must always stay awake and aware. 

Adverse Weather Conditions: Every year, adverse weather conditions take many lives on our roads. Rain is among one of the most common types of weather conditions that leads to fatal accidents each year. This is because rain causes roads to become slick, visibility to be at its lowest, and driving to become unpredictable.

Reckless Driving: Reckless driving takes on many forms such as speeding, tailgating, illegal passing, and weaving through traffic among many other forms. Approximately 3.5% of the fatal accidents that occur each year in the U.S. happen because of reckless driving. 

Distracted Driving: In 2017 alone, over 3,166 lives are lost in fatal accidents due to distracted driving. Distracted driving accidents take place in the blink of an eye due to reasons like texting on the cell phone, eating and drinking, talking to others in your vehicle, and more. Nobody can drive safely unless they are fully engaged, which is why we urge drivers to stay aware when driving on our roadways. 

Drunk Driving: Driving under the influence is one of the top reasons for fatal accidents each year within the state. Thousands of accidents occur each year due to the negligence of drivers who drink and then get behind the wheel. Drunk drivers do not have the same perception as other drivers and being injured or killed is more likely for those who share the roads.

Speeding: Driving too fast contributes to serious collisions on U.S. roads as well. When drivers lose control and are not able to navigate curves in the road or attempt illegal maneuvers in their vehicles, a fatal accident can happen quickly.

Speaking with an Attorney After a Fatal Accident 

Losing a loved one might be one of the most difficult things that you and your family will ever have to face. This is especially true in cases where a loved one has been lost due to negligent reasons. If you have lost somebody you love, it is essential that you speak with a personal injury attorney who has handled many wrongful death claims in the past. Our attorneys at Sheftall & Associates are highly skilled at handling many aspects of these claims and will help you every step of the way. Please contact our accident attorneys at 904-647-2296 for the help you deserve.