Drivers across the United States face a variety of risks on a daily basis. Unfortunately, Florida drivers face more risks than others. Florida has more fatal car accidents than almost any other state, with nearly 10 people losing their lives every day on Florida’s roads on average. Victims of car accidents in the state will often benefit from hiring a Florida auto accident lawyer, as victims will be entitled to proper compensation for their accident-related losses in many cases.

12 Unusual (But Very Real) Concerns for Florida Drivers

Why are Florida’s roads so dangerous? Part of the reason is that local drivers regularly face hazards that simply aren’t issues in many other states. For example, here are 12 unusual (but very real) concerns for Florida drivers:

1. Alligators in the Road

Every year, we see several reports of car accidents involving alligators on the road. There are more than 1.3 million alligators in Florida, and while many of these alligators live in the Everglades and other sparsely populated areas, there are just as many—if not more—that live in and around neighborhoods and other urbanized areas across the state.

2. Sinkholes

Along with its alligators, Florida is also known for its sinkholes. This is due to a combination of factors related to the state’s climate and geography. Cycles of drought conditions followed by heavy rains can destabilize the ground beneath roads—causing sinkholes to form—and in many cases, drivers will not realize that they are approaching a sinkhole until it is already too late.

3. Hurricane and Tropical Storm Debris

Florida sees multiple hurricanes and tropical storms almost every year. Even when these storms do not cause devastating property damage along Florida’s coasts, they can still cause downed trees and create other debris that present serious risks for Florida motorists.

4. Sudden Thunderstorms

Florida residents know to expect sudden thunderstorms at certain times of the year, but this doesn’t necessarily mean that drivers can always be prepared. Downpours can severely limit drivers’ visibility and make road conditions hazardous—both of which can increase drivers’ risk of being involved in a serious accident.

5. Floodwaters

From relentless rains to clogged storm drains, multiple factors can cause floodwaters to accumulate on Florida’s roads. Even just a few inches of water on the road can be dangerous, while 12 to 18 inches of rushing water can be enough to sweep away a car.  

6. Sand from Beaches

When floodwaters or onshore winds push sand from Florida’s beaches onto Florida’s roads, this can create a serious hazard for drivers as well. Even small amounts of sand can cause drivers to lose traction, similar to driving on roads covered in water. When storms leave roads near the ocean covered in densely packed sand, being unable to see lane lines and other road markings can be dangerous for drivers as well.

7. Sun Glare

Due to Florida’s flat topography, sun glare is an issue for drivers statewide. Whether you are driving east in the morning or driving west as the sun goes down, glare from the sun can make it extremely difficult to see road signs, traffic signals and even other vehicles right in front of you.

8. Dangerous Boat Trailers

Florida has more registered boats than any other state in the country. This means Florida has the most boat trailers on the road as well. Unfortunately, some of these boat trailers are in much better condition than others. Safely driving a truck or SUV with a boat trailer attached requires special skill as well, and the unfortunate reality is that many boat owners simply do not realize that they are taking dangerous risks behind the wheel.

9. Drunk Drivers and Pedestrians

While all states have drunk drivers and drunk pedestrians, Florida has more than most. Driving under the influence is both extremely dangerous and against the law, yet these factors are not enough to prevent many Florida residents and visitors from making the extremely poor decision to drink and drive. Just like drunk drivers, drunk pedestrians are dangers to themselves and others—and many drivers and passengers suffer injuries in car accidents when they are forced to swerve to avoid drunk pedestrians in the road.

10. Bicycle and E-Scooter Riders

With its numerous beach towns, populous cities and year-round sunny weather, Florida has a large number of bicycle and e-Scooter riders as well. While bicycle and e-scooter riders should always put safety first, many riders choose to take unnecessary risks that leave drivers helpless to avoid dangerous situations. Just like negligent drivers and pedestrians, when negligent bicycle and e-scooter riders cause accidents, they can be held fully accountable under Florida law.

11. Visitors on Unfamiliar Roads

Because of its numerous beach towns, populous cities and year-round sunny weather, Florida is among the most visited states in the country. Well over 100 million people visit Florida every year. Many of these visitors choose to rent cars, and this means that they find themselves driving on unfamiliar roads. This unfamiliarity—combined with the fact that they are looking at their phones or GPS screens instead of looking at the road—means that they are at high risk for causing serious collisions.

12. Dangerous Roads and Intersections

Finally, according to various sources, many of the nation’s most dangerous roads and intersections are located in Florida. From congested roads with high-speed limits to intersections with poorly timed traffic signals, various issues can put even the most cautious and experienced drivers in harm’s way.

Speak with a Florida Auto Accident Attorney About Your Legal Rights for Free

Searcy Denney is a Florida law firm that is committed to fighting for the rights of accident victims and their families. If you or a loved one has been harmed in any type of serious auto accident in Florida, we strongly encourage you to get in touch. To speak with an experienced Florida auto accident attorney in confidence as soon as possible, call 800-780-8607 or request a free consultation online now.

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