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It’s that time of year again when the holiday travel rush is in full swing.
Families are hitting the road for Thanksgiving, visitors are flying in from up north to escape the cold, and traffic along I-275 and I-4 can turn into gridlock fast.
Between longer drives, distracted drivers, and temperamental weather, car accidents are more common this time of year.
Knowing what to do after can make all the difference.
In this blog, we’re covering:
- Common causes of Thanksgiving travel accidents in Florida
- Who may be liable
- How a Tampa personal injury lawyer can help
5 Common Thanksgiving Travel Accidents
With an uptick in traffic and holiday stress, people’s attention isn’t entirely on the road. Because of this, car accidents are more common.
Drunk Driving
According to the Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV), from 2013 to 2023, impaired-driving fatalities in Florida represented 34.21% of all traffic fatalities.
With Thanksgiving gatherings and visitors coming from out of state, the odds of an impaired person getting behind the wheel increase, and with it comes the possibility of car accidents.
Rear-End Collisions
Stop-and-go traffic on major Tampa highways often leads to rear-end crashes, especially when drivers are distracted by their GPS, phones, or other passengers in the vehicle.
Out-of-State Drivers
Florida sees an influx of visitors in November. In fact, it’s estimated that the population of Florida increases by five percent every winter.
Weather-Related Accidents
While we don’t get snow in Florida, rain showers, slippery roads, and glare from the low winter sun can still create hazardous driving conditions.
Tired Drivers
Long drives to visit family or late-night returns from gatherings lead to tired drivers behind the wheel.
TIP: If you’re involved in a car accident, we encourage you to follow these four tips to make sure you receive proper medical attention and the compensation you deserve.
Who’s Liable After a Car Accident in Florida?
Liability depends on the cause of the accident.
In Florida, the at-fault driver, or their insurance company, is typically responsible for damages.
However, with the 2023 changes to Florida law (HB 837), you have to act quickly after an accident.
That’s because the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is now two years, not four.
If you’re hit by an out-of-state driver, your claim may involve multiple insurance companies or policies.
That’s why it’s important to work with a local personal injury attorney who understands Florida’s comparative negligence laws and how they apply in these situations.
How Cappy Law Can Help
Our team of Tampa personal injury lawyers is here to help you through the process after a car accident.
We’ll make sure to build a case with your best interests in mind.
Schedule your free case evaluation to get started.
