Four Dangerous Driving Behaviors That Dramatically Increase Pinellas County Car Accident Risks
Car accidents in Pinellas County are one of the leading causes of death and disability. Each year, they impact thousands of people. Sadly, in many cases a crash could have been prevented but for the reckless actions of others involved. Our Seminole car accident attorney shares four dangerous driving behaviors that dramatically increase the risks.
- Red Light Running
Red light running is a serious problem and a common cause of car accidents in Seminole. A recent crash on New Year’s Eve is a sad example. A January 1, 2024, ABC News report states that police were called to the scene of a fatal collision involving two motorists shortly before the clock struck midnight.
A 20-year-old driver in a BMW was headed south on US-19 at a high rate of speed when he ran a red light at Klosterman Road, colliding with a Kia Optima driver. Due to the impact and severity of the crash, the young man was ejected from his car and, sadly, died at the scene. The other motorist, a 63-year-old woman, was taken to a local hospital with severe injuries.
- Speeding
Speeding is another common cause of car accidents in Seminole and was a factor in the above crash. It increases the risk that you will lose control of your vehicle, not notice important issues on the road, or lack enough time to stop.
Sadly, not only does speeding increase the risk of a crash but it also increases the risk of fatal car accident injuries. The higher the rate of speed a driver is traveling at, the greater the force of impact. Going even a few miles over the speed limit, or driving too fast for road, weather, or traffic conditions, poses major risks.
- Drunk Driving
According to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, nearly 17,000 car accidents in Pinellas County happen each year. Drunk driving is a common cause. Having even one or two drinks impacts your vision, judgment, and reasoning skills. It also decreases coordination and reaction times, making you less likely to respond appropriately to unexpected events.
- Driving Distracted
Driving is a complex skill that requires your full attention. Taking your eyes off the road, your hands off the wheel, and your mind off what you are doing for even a few seconds dramatically increases the risks of Pinellas County car accidents.
In addition to talking on cell phones or texting, drinking coffee, adjusting your appearance in the rearview mirror, changing car stereo or GPS settings, and attending to children in the back seat can increase crash risks.
When A Crash Happens, Contact Our Seminole Car Accident Attorney
Dangerous behavior on the part of other motorists can put you and your passengers at risk. If you or someone you love is injured in a crash, get the caring, comprehensive legal service you need in filing a claim at Reep Law Firm. Call or contact us online and request a consultation with our Pinellas County car accident attorney today.
Sources:
abcactionnews.com/news/region-pinellas/driver-causes-fatal-crash-after-running-red-light-on-new-years-eve-fhp
flhsmv.gov/pdf/crashreports/crash_facts_2020.pdf
