You have likely experienced the frustration of sitting in traffic due to a rear-end collision. As a resident of the Sarasota-Bradenton area, you know how heavy traffic can be on streets like Fruitville Road, University Parkway, and 53rd Avenue West. Staying alert while driving is essential, but properly maintaining your vehicle is also key to avoiding becoming the cause of a rear-end crash. By following a routine maintenance schedule and watching for signs of potential issues, you can reduce wear-and-tear on your vehicle and prevent malfunctions that could lead to a collision. Join us as we explore some best practices for vehicle maintenance and safe driving through the streets of Sarasota and Bradenton. Following these essential tips will keep you and your fellow drivers safe.
The Prevalence of Rear-End Collisions in Sarasota-Bradenton
According to data collected by the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV), rear-end collisions accounted for 41% of all motor vehicle crashes in Sarasota County in 2020. These types of accidents resulted in 128 fatalities from 118 crashes during the same period.
High Traffic Areas Prone to Rear-End Collisions
Some of the busiest roads and intersections in Sarasota and Bradenton that see a higher frequency of rear-end collisions include:
- State Road 70 (53rd Avenue West) and Manatee Avenue West intersection
- Fruitville Road between Beneva Road and Tuttle Avenue
- University Parkway between Lockwood Ridge Road and Interstate 75
- Cortez Road West between 51st Street West and 75th Street West
- Tamiami Trail (US 41) between Bee Ridge Road and Proctor Road: This stretch of US 41 is known for its heavy traffic, especially during peak hours, leading to frequent rear-end collisions.
- Beneva Road between Webber Street and Clark Road: The mix of commercial and residential areas along this segment contributes to high traffic volumes and increased risk of rear-end crashes.
- 14th Street West (US 41) between 26th Avenue West and Cortez Road West: This area includes several busy intersections and commercial zones, making it a hotspot for rear-end collisions.
- Lockwood Ridge Road between 17th Street and University Parkway: The traffic congestion, especially near shopping centers and during rush hours, increases the likelihood of rear-end accidents.
- Manatee Avenue East (State Road 64) between 15th Street East and 1st Street: This section of Manatee Avenue has a high volume of traffic, including vehicles slowing for turns and stops, leading to a higher incidence of rear-end collisions.
- Ringling Boulevard between Pineapple Avenue and Tamiami Trail: The downtown area, with its mix of commercial, residential, and cultural traffic, sees frequent rear-end collisions due to congested traffic and frequent stopping.
- Gulf Drive (State Road 789) through Holmes Beach to Bradenton Beach: The scenic route, combined with heavy tourist traffic and frequent stops for pedestrians, contributes to a higher risk of rear-end collisions.
- Proctor Road between Honore Avenue and Swift Road: This stretch experiences heavy commuter traffic, increasing the risk of rear-end accidents, especially during morning and evening rush hours.
- South Tamiami Trail (US 41) near Sarasota Square Blvd: The vicinity of shopping centers and the mall increases traffic congestion, leading to a higher frequency of rear-end collisions.
Contributing Factors
Several factors contribute to the prevalence of rear-end collisions in the region:
Tailgating or following too closely remains the leading cause, accounting for over a third of all crashes. Driving too fast for road conditions also plays a role, as drivers have less time to react in emergency braking situations. Distracted driving, especially cell phone use and texting while driving, is another major contributor. Impaired driving due to alcohol, drugs or drowsiness can also delay a driver’s reaction time.
By following safe driving practices, maintaining a vehicle in good working order and allowing ample distance between vehicles, many rear-end collisions can be prevented. Motorists are urged to avoid distracted driving, obey posted speed limits, signal before braking and allow at least 4 to 6 seconds of following distance in ideal driving conditions.
Essential Vehicle Maintenance Tips to Prevent Accidents
To reduce the risk of rear-end collisions on Sarasota-Bradenton roads, it is critical that vehicle owners perform routine maintenance checks and services. Underinflated or worn tires can negatively impact handling and braking, especially on major roads like Bee Ridge Road or University Parkway.
Regular Tire Checks
It is recommended that tire pressure be checked at least once a month to ensure tires are inflated to the vehicle manufacturer’s recommended levels. Underinflated tires can overheat and blow out, causing drivers to lose control. Tread depth should also be monitored, as tires with little tread may not grip the road properly. For the best performance, replace tires when tread is worn down to 1/16 of an inch.
Brake Inspection
Brake pads and rotors should be inspected regularly by a certified mechanic. As brake pads wear down, stopping distance increases and braking power decreases. On highly traveled roads like Tamiami Trail or Fruitville Road, faulty brakes could lead to dangerous rear-end collisions. For safety, replace brake pads when they are down to 1/4 inch thick.
Additional Recommendations
Other important checks include all exterior lighting, windshield wipers, fluid levels, and air filters. Regular oil changes, tune-ups, and alignments will also help keep your vehicle running safely and efficiently. By following recommended maintenance schedules, vehicle owners can feel confident their cars are road-ready and help prevent hazardous accidents on Sarasota and Bradenton roads.
Checking Your Brakes, Lights, and Tires
Routine inspection and maintenance of your brakes, lights, and tires are essential for safe driving and avoiding rear-end collisions in Sarasota and Bradenton.
Brake Pads
Brake pads should be replaced every 25,000 to 50,000 miles to ensure maximum stopping power. As brake pads wear down, it takes longer to slow and stop your vehicle. Have your brake pads inspected regularly by a certified mechanic. They can determine if it is time for replacement to avoid brake failure, which could cause a rear-end collision at dangerous intersections like Fruitville Road and Honore Avenue.
Lights
Headlights, brake lights, and turn indicators should be checked regularly to ensure maximum visibility to other drivers. Have a friend help test all of your vehicle’s lights to confirm they are working properly. Faulty or non-functioning lights could prevent other drivers from seeing you stopping or turning, especially on busy roads like Tamiami Trail. Regularly inspecting and replacing burnt out bulbs will help avoid this dangerous situation.
Tires
Inspect your tires regularly for proper inflation and tread wear, as unsafe tires can lead to loss of control and the inability to stop quickly. Tires with low pressure or worn tread will not grip the road well, especially on wet pavement. This could lead to hydroplaning or skidding into the vehicle in front of you. For the best performance, replace tires that are more than six years old. Maintaining proper tire pressure and condition is essential for safe driving on all roads, especially highways like I-75.
Performing routine maintenance checks on your brakes, lights, and tires and replacing parts as needed will give you the confidence of knowing your vehicle can stop safely in any situation. Make it a habit to check these essential components regularly to avoid rear-end collisions in Sarasota and Bradenton. Following these best practices will help ensure you and others make it to your destinations safely.
Defensive Driving Techniques for Sarasota-Bradenton Streets
As a driver in the Sarasota-Bradenton area, exercising defensive driving techniques can help prevent rear-end collisions on busy roads and intersections. Defensive driving entails identifying potential hazards before they become immediate dangers.
Maintain a Safe Following Distance
When driving on roads like Fruitville Road or University Parkway, be sure to maintain at least a 3 to 4 second following distance between you and the vehicle in front of you. This provides adequate time to react in case the lead vehicle brakes suddenly. Tailgating is dangerous and illegal.
Watch for Bicyclists and Pedestrians
Sarasota and Bradenton have many cyclists and pedestrians. When passing bicyclists, provide at least 3 feet of clearance according to Florida law. Watch for pedestrians in crosswalks, and be prepared to stop. Pay extra attention near parks, schools, and busy intersections like Fruitville Road and Beneva Road.
Observe the Speed Limit
Speed contributes to over 25% of vehicle crashes. Observe the posted speed limits on all roads, especially on dangerous roads like Fruitville Road and University Parkway. Driving too fast reduces your ability to react to hazards and makes it difficult to stop in time to avoid a collision.
Adjust for Blind Spots
Before changing lanes or turning, check your blind spots by looking over your shoulder. Your mirrors do not provide a full view around your vehicle. Be especially careful when driving larger vehicles like SUVs and trucks that have bigger blind spots. Always double check for vehicles, cyclists or pedestrians before changing direction.
Following these defensive driving techniques in the Sarasota-Bradenton area can help reduce your risk of being involved in a rear-end collision. Staying alert, slowing down, leaving adequate following distance, and being aware of your surroundings and blind spots are all keys to safe driving on local roads.
What to Do After a Rear-End Collision – Call an Auto Injury Lawyer at Goldman, Babboni, Fernandez, Murphy & Walsh
Following a rear-end collision in the Sarasota-Bradenton area, contacting a personal injury attorney should be one of your top priorities. The attorneys at Goldman, Babboni, Fernandez, Murphy & Walsh have over a century of combined experience helping clients in Sarasota and Manatee counties recover damages after auto accidents.
After a collision, seek medical attention immediately even if you do not feel seriously injured at the scene. Whiplash and other soft tissue injuries can manifest hours or days after a crash. Notify both your insurance provider and the at-fault driver’s insurance company about the incident as well. Provide only the basic details about the accident and do not admit any fault.
Retaining an attorney like Bernard F. Walsh of Goldman, Babboni, Fernandez, Murphy & Walsh to handle communications with insurance companies is crucial. Mr. Walsh is a top-rated personal injury lawyer in Sarasota who can determine the value of your claim and fight for you to receive fair compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and vehicle repair or replacement costs. The firm handles cases throughout Sarasota and Bradenton at busy intersections like Fruitville Road and Beneva Road or Bee Ridge Road and Cattleman Road.
While it can be stressful, try to remain calm after an accident. Call 911 for emergency responders if anyone complains of injuries. Otherwise, move your vehicle out of traffic if possible and turn on your hazard lights. Exchange insurance information with the other driver and get their license plate number as well as contact information for any witnesses. Take photos of the vehicles involved and the surrounding area. All of this information will aid your attorney in building a strong case to recover damages from the at-fault party.
The hours and days following a rear-end collision are critical. Contacting a reputable personal injury firm like Goldman, Babboni, Fernandez, Murphy & Walsh can help you take the proper steps to protect your rights and receive fair compensation under Florida law. Their experienced attorneys are available for a free case review and consultation.
Maintaining your vehicle is key to roadway safety in the Sarasota-Bradenton region. By routinely inspecting brake pads, tires, headlights and turn signals, you ensure your vehicle is operating properly. While driving, remain alert and minimize distractions. Allow ample stopping distance between you and the car ahead. By taking these preventive measures, you help avoid potential rear-end collisions on the streets and intersections of Sarasota and Bradenton. Safe vehicle maintenance and defensive driving are the best ways to protect yourself and others. We all share the roads and have a responsibility to drive safely.
References:
Florida Traffic Crash Facts Annual Report 2021
These 10 Car Maintenance Musts Can Help Avoid Accidents
Safe Driving Tips for Sarasota Resident
Suncoast Defensive Driving school in Sarasota
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