Spring Break Means More Traffic and, Unfortunately, More Car Accidents in Tampa

It’s that time of year again when college students, from across the nation, will be looking to unwind from their hectic class schedules and soak up some of our beautiful Florida weather. However, most of the students who make the trip to Florida don’t just lay on the beach during the day and sit in their hotel rooms at night. Instead, many choose to let loose and party with their friends, which often involves alcohol. Unfortunately, this can often be a recipe for disaster.

According to the Center for Disease Control, deaths from traffic accidents in spring break destinations increase ten percent for those under 25. Worse yet, drunken-driving deaths increase 23% during spring break.

Common Causes of Spring Break Traffic Accidents

This year, 2022, is expected to be another record-breaking year for spring break travelers in the Tampa Bay region. To avoid getting involved in traffic accident during spring break, it’s important to know the most common causes of spring break traffic accidents.

The most common causes include:

• Increase in impaired drivers on the road

• Drivers who are unfamiliar with the area

• Drivers who are unfamiliar with the vehicles they are driving (rental cars)

• Distracted drivers

• Increase in young and inexperienced drivers

• Increase in people in the area

How to Reduce Your Chances of Being Involved In or Injured

in a Spring Break Traffic Accident

There are a number of things you can do to reduce your chances of being involved in and/or injured in a spring break traffic accident. According to the CDC, the following tips should be followed to help keep you safe:

• Always wear a seat belt

• When traveling with children, make sure you use appropriate car and booster seats

• Avoid driving at night in unfamiliar or rural areas

• Avoid riding motorcycles. If you do, wear a helmet

• Do not drink and drive

• Do not use your cellphone while driving

In addition to these tips, it is always good upon arriving to a new destination to spend a little time getting to know the surrounding area during daylight hours. While doing so, pay close attention to particular traffic patterns and any one-way streets and roads. Also be aware of any high traffic pedestrian crossings.

If you’ve been injured in a Florida spring break car accident, the attorneys at SouthShore Injury Attorneys are experienced in representing car accident victims in Tampa Bay and throughout the State of Florida. If you’ve been injured as a result of someone else’s negligence, contact SouthShore Injury Attorneys at 813-797-5998 for a free consultation.