Recent reports about the poor drivers in Florida, dangerous conditions for Florida pedestrians and the seemingly endless number of tragic accidents has left many Floridians fearful of taking to the highways. However, according to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV), Florida highways are safer now than they have been in decades.
In fact, FLHSMV reports the number of crash fatalities in 2011 was the lowest the state has reported since 1978. The department is compiling the 2011 Florida accident data, and its preliminary findings show 2,373 people died in traffic crashes on Florida’s roadways last year. In 2010, 2,444 died in Florida traffic accidents.
Executive Director Julie L. Jones said of the data, “While the six-year downward trend is encouraging, we continue our strategic efforts to drive down the number of crashes in Florida and the number of injuries and fatalities that come as a result.”
Our South Florida car accident attorneys have frequently reported on the ongoing efforts of the Florida law enforcement in cracking down on drunk drivers. Apparently, the efforts have been paying off. Florida saw 660 alcohol-related highway deaths in 2010, which was down more than 100 from 2009. The 2011 alcohol-related crash data have not yet been released.
In addition, our Treasure Coast personal injury attorneys will continue to push for tougher distracted-driving laws in Florida. We will not stop our efforts in urging Florida legislators to enact an anti-texting law. The law firm’s Facebook campaign focused on ending distracted driving, Hang Up and Drive!, is a tool to raise public awareness about the hazards of distracted driving.
We are glad to hear that Florida highways are seeing fewer fatal accidents. We also ask drivers to not get complacent now and fall back into bad driving habits. We encourage all residents and visitors to continue to drive safely and defensively while on our Florida highways. Let’s see even fewer Florida car accidents in 2012.
About Philip DeBerard, Injury Attorney
The law firm of Philip DeBerard, Injury Attorney, has provided professional and compassionate legal assistance to personal injury and accident victims in South Florida and the Treasure Coast since 1975. The firm’s practice areas include car accidents, motorcycle accidents, truck accidents, product liability, dog bite injuries, swimming pool accidents, slip and fall injuries, medical malpractice, and wrongful death claims.
Our law firm represents victims of car accidents across South Florida, including Port St. Lucie, Fort Pierce, Jupiter, Stuart, Okeechobee, Vero Beach, Palm Beach, and throughout South Florida and the Treasure Coast.
Call 1-800-299-8878 now to speak with a knowledgeable Florida car accident attorney or fill out our online contact form.
