Florida’s fatal car accident trend continues to rise. According to the National Safety Council (NSC), Florida has always reported more fatal car accidents than the national average. Sunshine State residents are aware of seasonal traffic surges during the fall and winter months. At that time, tourists and seasonal residents flock to Melbourne, Titusville and throughout Brevard County to escape colder climates. NSC reports that cheap gas and low interest rates have prompted more drivers to take to the road again. Heavy traffic, distracted drivers, and reckless drivers combine to increase the chances of severe wrecks on I-95 and on county roads.

Florida now leads the nation in traffic death increases. The NSC reported that Florida saw an average of 30,000 car accidents each month last year. In Florida, younger drivers in the 20 to 24 age group tend to have the highest risk of becoming involved in a fatal car accident. The group which has the second-highest risk is young adults between the ages of 25 to 29. Young drivers are more likely than their older adult counterparts to use mobile devices and engage in distracted driving. When someone else’s negligence results in tragedy for your a loved one, you need compassionate car accident attorneys who will fight to hold those responsible accountable.

Brevard County isn’t immune

Florida’s dense population has the highest level of fatal car accidents in the state. Approximately one out of six accidents in Florida happens in the Miami metro region.

According to the Florida Department of Motor Vehicles, Brevard County averages approximately 5,000 car accidents each year with an increasing trend of approximately four percent annually. Car accidents result from a wide range of conditions and circumstances, ranging from driving under the influence (DUI) of drugs and alcohol to distracted, careless, and reckless driving. Don’t face the aftermath of a fatal car accident alone. Individuals who are injured by a driver’s negligent or reckless behavior behind the wheel may be eligible for compensation, including medical expenses, lost income, and pain and suffering.

Statisticians believe that the rising number of fatal car crashes is caused by increased traffic on Florida’s east coast. Unemployment rates are low in the United States and Canada; therefore, people have more disposable income to travel. Visitors want to come to Florida to enjoy the beaches, theme parks, and year-round warm weather. NSC reports suggest the upward spike in fatal car accidents over the past two years is caused by the influx of Florida visitors. The rate of fatal of car crashes in Brevard County, Titusville, and Melbourne, Florida mirror a statewide trend in automobile crashes.

Reducing the number of deaths in car wrecks

Rising numbers of Florida visitors means staying safe on major roads like I-95, Route 1, and I-4 is more important than ever. Drivers should follow the posted speed limits at all times. Drinking, texting, and talking while driving should be avoided. Many drivers may be surprised to learn that eating and driving should also be avoided in the interest of driving without distraction. Fast food consumed behind the wheel is a manual distraction that can increase a driver’s accident risk.

Silence is golden until you speak with a lawyer

Florida laws are intended to protect safe, careful drivers from the risky behaviors of their negligent counterparts on the road. A car accident may be physically and financially devastating to unsuspecting drivers or pedestrians.

Those who are injured in a car accident should be aware that it is not within the insurance companies’ interests to make things right for the victims of their insured drivers. Although the insurer may propose a settlement before the victim or victim’s family members file a personal injury or wrongful death claim, the average person may have difficulty determining if the settlement amount is fair. Generally speaking, an unsolicited settlement offer is typically not the insurer’s best offer, so don’t sign anything until speaking with your attorney.

The decision to pursue a personal injury claim involves answering several questions:

• Does the vehicle accident warrant filing a personal injury claim?
• Was the other driver (or were other drivers) at fault, fully or in part, for the accident?
• Is there sufficient personal injury or property damage, to warrant a claim?

If you answered yes to these questions, you may have grounds to file a successful claim against the defendant driver in court. Contact a highly experienced Melbourne lawyer specializing in car accidents to discuss the particulars of your case.