Fort Lauderdale Car Accident Attorney Blog
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that speeding plays a role in about one-third of all fatal car accidents, and that speed-related car accidents cost taxpayers more than $23 billion annually, or about $44,190 per minute.
It is estimated that on average, speed-related crash claim the lives of 1,000 American each month. Almost one-third of drivers involved in speed-related fatal car accidents are between the ages of 15 and 24. Not surprisingly, drivers who speed are more likely to have a history of other traffic violations.
In 2009, there were 1,964 fatalities associated with Florida car accidents. Of those, 232 deaths – or just shy of 12 percent – were linked to drivers exceeding safe or stated speed limits. Authorities say the number is much higher, the difference is explained by reporting issues, including accidents caused by multiple factors. Also in 2009, more than 126,000 serious speeding-related Florida car accidents were reported, causing 3,651 injuries, the Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles reports.
Our Port St. Lucie car accident lawyers and Fort Pierce injury attorneys frequently report that the stretch of coast between St. Lucie and Miami is the most dangerous area in the state for serious and fatal car accidents.
While some motorists would debate the risk associated with speeding, most researchers would not. A recent study conducted by the University of Illinois has identified a nationwide increase in the number of fatal car accidents linked to speeding since the U.S. dropped its 55 m.p.h. national speed limit in 1995, the Auto Insurance reports. Florida is the number one state in the nation where drivers are most likely to be ticketed for speeding.
To determine whether you are an aggressive driver, the NHTSA has compiled a few traits common to most speeders and offers a list of tips to help drivers avoid driving with a lead-foot.
~ Signs of aggressive driving include: tailgating, expressing frustration with fellow drivers, driving while distracted, darting in-and-out of traffic, blazing through yellow lights or frequently running red lights, or, of course, speeding.
~ To avoid aggressive driving behaviors: focus on driving – put the cell phone away, don’t eat, groom, read or fiddle with the radio save tuning in to a station that plays tunes that help you relax. Obey the speed limit. If you are worried about being on time – leave early and map out an alternative route that gives you choices for reaching your destination.
The Fort Pierce car accident attorneys at Freeman & Mallard have been successfully and aggressively representing car accident victims and their families in Fort Lauderdale, West Palm Beach, and Ft. Pierce /Port St. Lucie for years. Call us today to schedule a no-obligation appointment to discuss your case at 1-800-529-2368.