5 Ways To Stay Safe on Florida Roads During Tourist Season
According to Visit Florida, over 140 million tourists visited the Sunshine State in 2023. By the first quarter of 2024, Florida had already welcomed over 40 million tourists. Florida state beats the nation as an unrivaled destination for tourists. Tourists are attracted by the state’s warm weather, iconic beaches, and theme parks. While this is good for the state’s economy, tourist season comes with increased road safety risks. During spring break, summer, and winter holidays, it is not uncommon to see a spike in the number of auto accidents across Florida. With more vehicles on the road and tourists traveling in unfamiliar places, there is a higher risk of accidents. In this article, we share some of the ways you can stay safe on Florida roads during tourist season.
- Stay Alert and Expect the Unexpected
When driving during tourist season, it is crucial to stay alert and expect the unexpected. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times. This means keeping an eye out for those around you and staying prepared for any potential dangers or risks. Tourists tend to drive slower, make sudden lane changes, or brake suddenly while searching for their destinations. Some may be distracted by sightseeing. Tourists may also not know about local traffic patterns or speed patterns. Maintain a safe following distance and be prepared for unpredictable actions so you can react quickly to prevent accidents.
- Try Traveling During Off-Peak Times
If possible, avoid getting on the road during peak tourist traffic times. Schedule your trips during times when traffic is lighter, such as early in the morning. If necessary, use your navigation app to monitor real-time traffic and adjust your route when possible. This can not only reduce the chances of accidents, but it can also save you time and stress.
- Strictly Obey the Rules of the Road
It is crucial that you follow the rules of the road every day, but especially during tourist season. Follow posted speed limits, use your turn signals, yield when required, and stop at red lights and stop signs. Adhering to traffic laws can keep you safe. It can prevent confusion for visitors who may already be unfamiliar with local laws, reducing the risk of accidents and ensuring traffic flows smoothly.
- Don’t Depend Solely on Your Mirrors
While mirrors are helpful for seeing what or who is around you, you cannot rely solely on them. Mirrors might not show you everything. They might leave blind spots that may be hiding vehicles or pedestrians. After checking your mirrors, turn to check blind spots whenever possible when changing lanes, making turns, pulling into traffic, or pulling out of parking spaces.
- Look Out for Pedestrians and Cyclists
While many tourists travel by car, some choose to walk or cycle. Watch out for tourists on foot or bikes. Always yield to pedestrians at crosswalks and check bike lanes before changing lanes or turning. When driving through pedestrian-heavy areas, reduce your speed.
Legal Help Is Available
If you’re involved in a car accident due to another party’s negligence, you have legal rights and options. Our Miami car accident attorneys at The Pendas Law Firm can help you understand your rights and legal options. You can contact us at 844-200-0000 or by filling out our online contact form.
The Pendas Law Firm also represents clients in the Ocala, Orlando, Tampa, Jacksonville, Fort Myers, Fort Lauderdale, Bradenton, Daytona Beach, West Palm Beach, Naples, and Melbourne areas.
Source:
visitflorida.org/about-us/media/news-releases/article-details/?releaseId=21166