Florida Traffic Crash Facts 2023: What the Data Tells Us About Road Safety

Each year, Florida’s roadways witness thousands of accidents, injuries, and fatalities, highlighting the importance of traffic safety. The 2023 Florida Traffic Crash Facts Report, released by the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV), provides a comprehensive look at motor vehicle accidents across the state.

The data reveals alarming trends: 395,175 total crashes, over 165,000 injuries, and 3,375 fatalities. Understanding the causes of these accidents can help prevent future collisions and keep Florida’s roads safer for everyone.

Key Statistics from the 2023 Florida Crash Report

According to FLHSMV, Florida averages over 1,000 crashes per day. The most concerning findings from the report include:

• Total Crashes: 395,175 traffic accidents reported in 2023.
• Injuries: More than 165,000 crashes resulted in injuries.
• Fatalities: 3,375 lives were lost due to traffic-related incidents.
• Hit-and-Run Accidents: Over 100,000 hit-and-run crashes occurred statewide.
• Alcohol-Related Crashes: Thousands of accidents were attributed to impaired driving.

Leading Causes of Traffic Accidents in Florida

Understanding what causes these crashes can help drivers take precautions and reduce their risks. The most common causes of traffic accidents in Florida include:

1. Distracted Driving

Florida continues to battle a growing distracted driving problem. Common distractions include:

• Texting or using a smartphone while driving.
• Eating or drinking behind the wheel.
• Adjusting the radio or GPS while driving.

Distracted driving significantly increases the risk of accidents, as it takes a driver’s eyes off the road, hands off the wheel, and attention away from driving.

2. Speeding and Reckless Driving

Speeding is a factor in many serious crashes. Higher speeds increase stopping distances and reduce reaction times, often leading to more severe injuries or fatalities.

3. Drunk and Impaired Driving

Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs remains a significant cause of fatal crashes in Florida. DUI-related accidents often result in catastrophic injuries and wrongful death claims.

4. Failure to Yield

Many accidents occur at intersections when drivers fail to yield to oncoming traffic. This is a common issue in left-turn accidents, pedestrian collisions, and red-light running incidents.

5. Hit-and-Run Accidents

Hit-and-run crashes are particularly concerning in Florida, with thousands of cases reported each year. Victims of hit-and-run accidents often struggle to receive compensation unless the at-fault driver is identified.

Florida’s Most Dangerous Roads and High-Risk Areas

Certain areas in Florida experience higher accident rates due to traffic congestion, high-speed roadways, and tourist activity. Some of the most dangerous roads in Florida include:

• Interstate 95 (I-95) – One of the deadliest highways in Florida due to heavy traffic and high-speed crashes.
• Interstate 75 (I-75) – Frequent truck accidents and rear-end collisions.
• US Highway 1 – A high number of pedestrian accidents occur along this route.
• Florida Turnpike – Known for multi-vehicle accidents and high-speed crashes.

What to Do If You’re Involved in a Car Accident in Florida

Accidents can happen unexpectedly, but knowing what steps to take can help protect your rights. If you’re involved in a crash, follow these steps:

• Call 911 and report the accident.
• Seek medical attention immediately, even if you feel fine.
• Take photos and videos of the accident scene and vehicle damage.
• Gather witness contact information.
• Avoid making statements to the other driver’s insurance company.
• Consult with a Florida personal injury lawyer to discuss your legal options.

Understanding Your Legal Rights After a Florida Car Accident

If you were injured in a crash, you may be entitled to compensation for:

• Medical expenses (hospital bills, rehabilitation, surgery costs).
• Lost wages and future earning potential.
• Pain and suffering caused by the accident.
• Vehicle repair or replacement costs.
• Wrongful death claims for families who lost a loved one in a crash.

FAQs

How many accidents happen in Florida each year?

In 2023, Florida reported 395,175 traffic crashes, averaging over 1,000 accidents per day.

What is the most common cause of car accidents in Florida?

Distracted driving, speeding, and impaired driving are among the leading causes of accidents in the state.

How long do I have to file a car accident claim in Florida?

Florida law generally allows victims two years from the accident date to file a personal injury lawsuit.

Do I need a lawyer for a Florida car accident?

While not required, having a lawyer can help protect your rights, negotiate with insurance companies, and maximize your compensation.

How can the Law Offices of Jason Turchin help?

Our firm has extensive experience handling car accident claims across Florida. We fight for fair compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Contact a Florida Car Accident Lawyer Today

Understanding Florida’s accident trends can help drivers take precautions, but if you’ve been injured in a crash, you need legal representation. The Law Offices of Jason Turchin helps accident victims fight for the compensation they deserve.

Call 800-337-7755 today for a free consultation. You won’t pay any fees or costs unless we win or settle your case.