The winter holidays often mean more traffic across Florida as travelers hit the road, increasing the risk of accidents, law enforcement officials are warning.
“The holiday season brings a surge in travel throughout the state as many drivers travel for gatherings and celebrations,” Jared W. Perdue, Florida’s Department of Transportation Secretary, said in a recent statement. “A surge in travel means increased traffic on our roadways, so it’s especially important to focus on safe driving behaviors and have even more patience while on the road.”
Some 2,700 people have already been killed in car crashes across Florida so far this year, according to state data. The tally includes 22 people who have died in accidents in Sumter County and another 75 killed in Marion County.
The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV), and its Division of the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP), are reminding people to expect a surge in traffic this holiday season. They are also urging drivers to stay alert and operate their vehicles safely.
“Holiday travel can be an exciting, but rushed, experience for many of us,” said FLHSMV Executive Director Dave Kerner. “Traveling to see our families and friends, and the joy of soon being with our loved ones, can cause distractions we normally don’t experience in our everyday commute. Getting there safely should be the highest priority. Exercise safe driving practices and plan ahead so that you and your vehicle are prepared for travel.”
The agency has published a safe travel checklist for Floridians planning to hit the road during the holiday season. It starts with checking to see if your vehicle has been recalled and making sure that any regularly scheduled maintenance is performed. FLHMSV also urges drivers to ensure that everyone is buckled up, to maintain a safe speed at all times and to comply with traffic laws.
Legal Rights for Villagers Injured in Car Crashes
Anyone who has been injured in a car accident in Florida has the right to seek compensation from those responsible for the crash, whether it is a negligent driver, a malfunctioning car manufacturer or another party.
The compensation that is typically available in these cases includes money for doctors' bills and other costs related to physical and mental injuries, as well as for any property damage and impact on an injured person’s earning capacity.
In the tragic event that a person dies in a crash, his or her loved ones have the right to seek similar compensation for wrongful death.
No amount of money will ever be able to turn back the clock and prevent a collision from happening. The monetary damages typically involved in these cases is instead meant to ease much of the financial burden that often comes with a car accident.
How a Villages Accident Attorney Can Help You
If you or a loved one has been injured in a car crash, bicycle collision or other accident, it is vital to seek the advice of an experienced injury attorney. Villages accident attorney Tim Babiarz has been fighting for people and families across the community for more than two decades.
Our office is conveniently located in the Villages. We are also proud to represent clients throughout the area, including in Ocala, Leesburg, Lady Lake, Wildwood, Summerfield and beyond. Call (352) 205-7559 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation with a Villages accident attorney.
