Driving and riding as a passenger in a motor vehicle are facts of life for most people, but unfortunately, these activities come with many inherent risks. Being aware of the causes of vehicle crashes can help drivers take steps to reduce the chances of getting into an accident.
These are the three leading causes of car accident injuries on Florida roads.
1. Distracted driving
Distracted driving involves doing any activity while driving that diverts the attention of the driver away from the road. Some examples of this include texting, driving while very angry, and daydreaming, among many others. It is against the law in Florida to text while driving, or otherwise operate a vehicle carelessly.
2. Driving while intoxicated
Driving with a blood alcohol concentration above a certain amount is illegal in all 50 states, and there are severe penalties for this throughout the country. This is because alcohol negatively affects functions that are essential for safe driving, including reaction times, visual perception, concentration, reasoning, and coordination. Intoxicated driving can also include driving while under the influence of certain drugs.
3. Speeding
Speeding refers to the act of driving too fast for the road conditions. Roads that are steep and winding, or that travel through neighborhoods, usually have lower speed limits than large highways. Speeding drivers put pedestrians, cyclists, and other drivers and passengers at risk.
Avoid doing any of these three activities while behind the wheel. This will reduce your chances of getting into a vehicle accident and injuring yourself or someone else.