4 Common Causes of Car Accidents Around the North Miami Beach Region

Like the rest of the Sunshine State, North Beach Miami Beach rarely has a dull moment, thanks to its favorable climate. Like other vacation destinations, the number of cars on the roads is relatively high, so the chances of getting into an accident are also high.

If you plan to visit the North Miami Beach Region in the future, understanding the hazards on its roads is important to ensure that you avoid getting into an accident and have the best time of your life.

Below are common causes of car accidents around the area and what you can do to avoid them.

1.   Drunk Driving

Drunk driving is a major problem in almost all states. But some states have higher incidences of drunk driving than others, with Florida being in the top half of states with the highest drunk driving-related accidents.

Vacationing goes hand in hand with partying and drinking. Unfortunately, decision-making for drunk drivers can be crowded, resulting in some getting behind the wheel and causing an accident.

Like many states, Florida has a BAC limit of 0.08, but the law doesn’t guarantee drunk drivers won’t get on the road, so you will need to look out for them.

If you are hurt in a DUI-related accident, it would be best to talk to a local car accident lawyer to assist you with your car accident claim to maximize your compensation.

Signs of intoxicated driving include erratic acceleration and braking, veering off lane, tailgating, and driving too slow for the posted speed limit.

2.   Distracted Driving

According to the CDC, nine people are killed by distracted drivers daily. Distracted driving is operating a vehicle while the driver’s attention is on something other than driving. Distractions fall into three main classes; manual, visual, and cognitive distractions.

Manual distractions refer to activities that require the driver to get their hands off the wheel, such as changing channels on the stereo or searching your purse.

Visual distractions are activities that take your eyes or attention off the road, like checking your GPS. Cognitive distractions can be anything that gets your mind off controlling the vehicle.

Of all distractions, using the cell phone is the worst because it can mean having all three types of distractions at play.

3.   Tourists

Tourism significantly contributes to Florida’s economy thanks to its favorable climate all year round. While the revenue generated from tourism is a good thing for Floridians, having many tourists on the road increases the chances of getting into an accident.

The less familiar a road is to a driver, the higher the chances of the driver causing an accident. Add the unfamiliarity with the holiday spirit and what you get is a recipe for disaster. It is impossible to know who among the drivers on the road is familiar with the road situations, so your best bet at staying safe would be to drive defensively at all times.

4.   Speeding

Speeding contributes to approximately one-quarter of all fatal accidents in America. Like other states, Florida has designated speeds for different driving situations.

If you are on an interstate, a highway, or a toll road, the allowable speed limit is 70mph. When driving through business, residential or municipal areas, the speed limit is 30mph and 20mph for school zones. These limits are set to ensure that road users and pedestrians are safe.

Unfortunately, not all drivers stick to the speed limits, which sometimes lead to disaster. The higher the speed, the worse the outcomes of an accident, so you want to ensure that you stick with the posted limit.

If you can’t locate a speed limit sign, stick to the statutory speeds based on the type of road you are driving on.