In the state of Florida, traffic accidents comprise the largest grouping of personal injury claims every year. Although we live in a no-fault state – meaning that each driver’s insurance pays for their own injuries and repairs, regardless of fault – many choose to seek additional damages. If their personal insurance reaches its limit, or if there has been extensive pain and suffering, a driver may seek further damages from insurance companies or in court.
The 2019 Sarasota County traffic statistics show a relatively steady trend, although there was an slight uptick in one category – DUIs.
These statistics reflect data from all of Sarasota’s law enforcement agencies combined.
Traffic accidents/ incidents: By the end of the calendar year, there were 12.371 reported crashes in 2019. This is very close with the totality of incidents in 2018, which came in at 12,534.
Fatalities: Although most accidents do not result in fatalities, sadly there are too many deaths on the roads annually. In 2019 the total fatalities reported were 46, compared to 44 in 2018.
Driving Under the Influence (DUIs): In 2019, authorities reported that 831 of the reported traffic accidents were a direct result of a DUI situation. In 2018, this number was lower at 766.
How Traffic Statistics Affect You
While you may glance at traffic statistics and move on, it is important to realize that each of these numbers represents real people who were injured, killed, or suffered property damage. In an area the size of Sarasota, these could easily be your friends, family – or even you.
Sarasota traffic has been growing heavier as more people make the move to the area. We also experience an influx of seasonal residents and tourists, crowding our road with many who may not be familiar with the area. If you suddenly become one of these traffic statistics, you’ll need to know what to do.
Immediately After an Accident: If you have been involved in an accident, move your car to the side of the road if possible. Be sure that everyone is ok; but if you are not hurt, document the scene as best you can. Take photos of the vehicles, the scene, as well as any factors which may have contributed to the accident – a broken traffic light or large pothole, for instance. Stay and speak with the police if you do not need immediate medical care, but definitely get checked out by medical professionals. You may need a report later on if symptoms such as pain or restricted movement set in. Keep all police and medical documentation.
If the Accident is Serious: If there is extensive property damage or obvious injury, contact a personal injury attorney as soon as possible. Although your no-fault insurance will cover you up to a certain extent, you may still have long-term or ongoing medical bills, loss of wages, or loss of quality of life that needs addressing. In these cases, you are allowed to seek damages from the insurance company of the other party in the accident. If there is a fatality, a loved one can seek wrongful death damages based upon negligence.
When a DUI Applies: If the other party in your accident was under the influence of drugs or alcohol, you have a strong case to be rewarded damages stemming from their negligence. In these cases, it is recommended that you immediately call a Sarasota personal injury lawyer to represent you. They can help you to gather all the required documentation and reports to ensure that you are properly compensated for your injuries and loss.
Probinsky & Cole practice personal injury law in Sarasota and Tampa. If you have been involved in an accident, call us immediately.
