How Does Seasonal Weather in Florida Increase the Risk of Car Accidents?

Most Floridians have experienced sudden and drastic weather at some point. As you are making the routine drive home from work, the highway may become waterlogged and turn into an obstacle course. Although Florida may not experience ice and snow like the northern states, The Sunshine State presents its own distinct challenges when driving in seasonal weather. From violent thunderstorms to the unpredictable conditions of hurricane season, the weather in Florida can significantly increase the risk of car accidents. Below, our Tampa car accident attorney explains the factors that contribute to increased auto crashes.

Storms Bring Many Dangers

The summer months in Florida bring some of the most dangerous driving conditions. A thunderstorm can quickly develop and motorists are not always prepared for the sudden change in conditions. During heavy rains, hydroplaning is very common. This occurs when rain falls onto hot pavement and creates a thin layer of water, greatly reducing tire traction. A motorist that is hydroplaning may crash into another vehicle and it is not uncommon for these incidents to turn into multi-vehicle accidents.

Flash flooding also happens quite frequently in Tampa and other low-lying areas of the state. This can cause roads to become impassable in just a few minutes during heavy rain. Overwhelmed drainage systems can also result in roads becoming very dangerous even though they initially appeared safe.

The Dangers of Hurricane Season

Floridians are well aware of the dangers of hurricane season, which runs from June to November. Hurricanes can bring drastic changes to traffic conditions, even hundreds of miles from the center of the storm. As residents leave impacted areas, the increased traffic also poses a risk. Unfamiliar routes, stressed motorists, and traffic congestion also greatly increase the risk of accidents.

Additionally, storms often throw debris into the road including building materials, power lines, and fallen trees. Traffic signals may not be operating, causing motorists to become confused at intersections. These factors also contribute to accidents.

Winter Tourism 

The winter months in Florida bring millions of people who seek warmer weather every year and this creates unique challenges that make accidents more likely. Drivers who are unfamiliar with the roads in Florida may have difficulty navigating them when they are looking for their destination and this can create unpredictable traffic patterns. Visitors may miss turns, make sudden lane changes, and drive substantially slower than the flow of regular traffic.

The surge of the seasonal population can double or triple the number of drivers on the road in the winter months. In areas that were designed for smaller populations, this can overwhelm the infrastructure, also increasing the risk of car accidents.

Our Car Accident Lawyer in Tampa Can Help

Weather-related car accidents are very common in Florida and afterward, you need the help of a Tampa car accident attorney. At Moore Law, our experienced attorney can advise you of your legal options, determine which one is right for you, and help you obtain any compensation you deserve. Call us today at 813-510-5400 or chat with us online to request a consultation.