If you are wondering how much and what sort of automobile
insurance you need, it may help to review some of the basic statistics
regarding Florida traffic accidents. These statistics will help you better
understand how many people are involved in accidents and what types of accidents are most common.
Annual Accident Total
Every year, there are more than 200,000 Florida traffic
accidents involving cars, pedestrians, bicycles and motorcycles. The following
sets of statistics will take a peek into how many drivers and passengers are
killed in accidents annually, how often alcohol plays a role in the accident,
and even how many injuries are reported each year. We have also provided some
advice for staying safe if you are a pedestrian, riding a bike, riding a
motorcycle or driving a car.
Deaths and Injuries
in Vehicular Accidents
Of all of the different types of Florida traffic accidents,
there are an average of between 2,500 and 3,000 deaths reported per year.
Similarly, some 200,000 people are injured in these accidents. This includes
all drivers, passengers, pedestrians, motorcycle drivers and bicycle riders. In
order to reduce this number, it is important to always remain aware and alert
behind the wheel. Drivers should never text, drink, eat or perform any other
task when they are driving, and they should always anticipate the errors of
other drivers on the road. Defensive driving courses are highly beneficial in
preventing accidents like this.
Pedestrians
In 2008, there were 502 pedestrians killed in accidents and
more than 7,800 crashes involving pedestrians. While it is true that the
pedestrians are sometimes at fault, there is plenty that drivers can do to
prevent these deaths and injuries. It is imperative to slow down at
intersections and any time they see a pedestrian attempting to cross the road.
Pedestrians always have the right of way, whether they are crossing in a
crosswalk or in the middle of the street. Pedestrians should be sure to always
use sidewalks and crosswalks, however, and they should be sure to anticipate
cars that may come through blind intersections.
Bicycles and
Motorcycles
Drivers must share the roadways with bicycles and
motorcycles. In 2008, 118 bicyclists and 502 motorcyclists were killed in
Florida traffic accidents; thousands more were injured. If you are a driver,
remember that bicycles and motorcycles have the right to be on the road just as
much as you do. You should always anticipate their needs and treat them with
respect. If you are riding your bicycle or motorcycle on the road, you should
learn and obey all of the various traffic laws that are designed to keep you and other drivers safe.
Alcohol Use
In 2009 alone, there were more than 20,000 Florida traffic
accidents that involved the use of alcohol. Of these, more than 14,000 people
were injured and 1,004 died. To avoid these accidents, drivers of cars and
motorcycles alike should remember that the legal blood-alcohol limit for
operating a motor vehicle in the state of Florida is 0.08%. Of course, it is
always better to avoid drinking at all if you will be driving.
Florida traffic accidents have decreased somewhat over the
years, but they are still responsible for taking thousands of lives annually.
Drivers, bicycle riders, pedestrians and motorcyclists should always be aware
and alert of their surroundings and avoid drinking and driving.
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