Florida serves as a destination for anyone hoping to escape cold winters and sunbathe at the beach. With its mild winters and countless attractions, it's no wonder that such a vast number of tourists visit every year. Although the tourists help an economy that is highly dependent on tourism, they also add many more vehicles onto the roadway. This increase in drivers unfamiliar with the road and driving style has a profound impact on the potential number of vehicles on the road, which can potentially lead to a rise in traffic accidents.
Navigating Unfamiliar Territory
One of the primary reasons for accidents involving out-of-state drivers is their lack of familiarity with the local road systems. Florida's highways, including the Florida Turnpike and I-95, can be complex, with numerous exits, on-ramps, and lane changes. For a visitor used to a different road layout, a simple GPS misdirection can lead to a sudden lane change, a missed exit, or other erratic driving behaviors that cause accidents. Furthermore, tourists might be distracted by scenery or navigating their destination, taking their attention away from the road. This distraction, combined with the higher volume of cars, creates a recipe for disaster.
The Impact of Driver Distraction
One of the most common causes of car accidents, in general, is driver distraction, but this becomes much more pronounced during the tourist season. Tourists are often trying to orient themselves, reading directions, looking at maps, or flipping through tourist brochures - all while driving. The influx of tourists can also mean a larger number of rideshare vehicles, adding confusion and congestion to the road. When a driver is not fully attentive to the road, they may miss a sudden stop, a pedestrian crossing in front of them, or a changing light, resulting in an accident.
Understanding Florida-Specific Rules
Every state has its own unique traffic laws, and what's standard in one place might be a point of confusion in Florida. For instance, the rules regarding U-turns, right-turn-on-red, or even the right-of-way at four-way stops can differ. Tourists may operate under the assumption that the rules they are familiar with apply everywhere, leading them to make a maneuver that is legal where they are from but illegal or unsafe in Florida. This misunderstanding can result in serious accidents.
The blend of unfamiliar drivers, distracted navigation, and differing traffic laws makes Florida's roads particularly hazardous during the winter months.
It can be quite complex and stressful as you navigate the aftermath of involvement in a traffic accident, both for you and someone you know. Understanding your rights and what steps to take is important. The personal injury attorneys at Kemp Law have seen all types of traffic accident cases, from distracted drivers to out-of-state drivers. Contact our office for a consultation to discuss yours.
