The Sarasota Gulf Coast tourist season is fast approaching once again. Tourism is a massive driver of growth and prosperity here on the Gulf Coast, but the increased number of people leads to more strain on businesses and public areas. One of the most disastrous issues regarding the tourist season is the increase in driving accidents. Accidents are bound to follow when people unfamiliar with certain roads clash with experienced local drivers. Here are driving tips that both locals and tourists can follow to help you make the most of the coming season.
Driving Tips for Residents
When driving on the same roads every day, it is natural to slip into a routine, failing to truly take in all of your surroundings. But when tourist season comes, unexpected events will increase at an explosive rate. Maintaining a safe distance between you and the cars around you will ensure that you can react should a driver find themselves driving strangely on an unfamiliar road. Local laws, especially laws such as how and where to stop for pedestrians, are often not followed simply due to ignorance on the part of the out-of-state driver.
Some drivers might even be enjoying their vacation a little too much. Sarasota routinely ranks as one of the Florida counties with the highest percentage of DUI arrests – in part due to an increase in partiers and tourists. Of course, not everyone visiting our city will behave inappropriately, but driving with caution during the busy tourist season will keep you and others around you safe.
Sometimes when driving on local roads, you don’t feel the need to use blinkers or turn signals. Everyone around you knows the turns and can expect how you will drive, right? This thinking might be convenient, but using turn signals, especially when driving with tourists, is one of the simplest and most effective ways to commute during the busy tourism season safely.
Visitor Driving Tips
We love when people come and visit the fantastic place we live. However, you must remember that while you may be enjoying a vacation, most of the people you interact with on the road are simply going about a daily routine. If you miss a turn or want to check out an attraction, take the time to do so safely. Swerving or abruptly braking in the middle of the road can cause accidents even if people are driving cautiously.
If you come to our area to have a good time, remember that drinking and driving laws are the same here as they are in most places. The Sarasota gulf coast area has much of the same amenities you will find elsewhere. Ridesharing apps like Uber can return you to your lodging safely, and unique Sarasota attractions such as the Siesta Key Trolleys can enhance your experience while keeping everyone safe.
Many areas close to the beach are pedestrian friendly in Sarasota, meaning that pedestrians have the right of way and have many opportunities to cross the street. Always look for signage posted indicating which areas cars must stop at. When you yourself are taking a stroll, you will appreciate that these laws are in place!
In Florida, wearing your seatbelt is a must. Cops even have the ability to stop your vehicle just for the purpose of handing out a fine for this infraction. Remember to always buckle up – “Click It or Ticket”- especially considering the higher chance of accidents between tourists and residents.
Accident? Probinsky & Cole Can Help
If you live in the Sarasota or Orlando area, you are bound to interact with drivers who are unfamiliar with the roads and laws. If you are involved in an automotive accident and believe you deserve compensation, call the personal injury attorneys at Probinsky & Cole.
