Even with advancements in auto safety, increased enforcement of traffic laws, and cracking down on distracted driving, car accidents still occur in South Florida at an alarming rate. The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) reports that there are more than 65,000 auto crashes in Miami-Dade County alone, causing almost 300 fatalities every year. Another 32,000 victims are injured in traffic collisions, and their losses can be devastating. In addition to the physical pain, medical bills, pain and suffering, and other consequences add up.
Various factors are at play when it comes to assessing the safety risks on county thoroughfares, local city streets, and highways. You can trust a Miami highway car accidents attorney to protect your rights if you were involved in a collision on any of South Florida’s most dangerous roads. When you know where they are located, you might understand why collisions are a common occurrence in these areas.
I-95 and Florida’s Turnpike
Among the biggest threats to motorists traveling on these major highways is speed, and motorists frequently travel faster than the posted speed limit of 70 miles per hour. The I-95 Express Lane is the location of numerous deadly crashes for this reason. Plus, I-95 and Florida’s Turnpike carry heavy traffic by semis, 18-wheelers, and other large trucks.
US Highway 1
In its path from Maine to South Florida and down to Key West, US-1 runs through many different traffic environments. Some factors that impact the frequency of accidents include:
- Extreme changes in the posted speed limit;
- Multiple traffic and turning lanes; and,
- Varying spans between signals.
Miami and City Streets
South Florida is known for heavy traffic in urban areas, but a key concern is the numerous types of road users. Motorized vehicles are sharing city streets with pedestrians and bicycle riders, and not all are aware of their responsibilities under traffic regulations.
In addition, increased usage of Uber, Lyft, and other ridesharing services has increased traffic congestion. Many out-of-town drivers for these companies head into Miami to “deadhead” for income, so they are unfamiliar with the area.
Compensation for Injured Victims
Florida law provides that individuals can obtain monetary damages after a car accident, and the amount is measured by your losses. There are two types:
- Economic Damages: These are losses that are quantifiable and associated with a dollar value, such as the costs of medical treatment, lost income, and out-of-pocket expenses.
- Noneconomic Damages: Some losses are not concrete, but you most certainly experience hardship because of your injuries. This category of compensation includes pain and suffering, emotional distress, and diminished quality of life.
Contact a Miami Car Accidents Lawyer to Learn More About Your Rights
Our team at Gerson & Schwartz, PA is prepared to fight for the compensation you deserve, whether we are negotiating a settlement or taking your case to court. Please contact us today to schedule a free consultation. You can reach our offices in Miami, Fort Lauderdale, or West Palm Beach, FL by calling (305) 371-6000 or visiting us online.