For many, summer brings the advent of fun in the sun, a respite from work, and a time for adventure with friends and family. But adventure means travel, and travel means, more than likely, more time in your family vehicle. Perhaps surprising, driving from point A to point B is inarguably the most dangerous thing you do each day – despite significant improvements in car safety, the National Safety Council reported that 2015 saw the largest rise in motor vehicle deaths in the last fifty years, the state of Florida ranking third in national mortality. At PROS Miami, we’re here to address your rehabilitative needs after your accident. Our greatest wish? Protect yourself and your loved ones when you’re behind the wheel, and prevent those accidents before they happen! Stay safe on the road, and familiarize yourself today with these three top causes of car accidents.
- Distracted / Reckless Driving
Tell the truth – do you text while driving? Though many of us are guilty of this seemingly innocent offense, the true burden of that text is far greater than you may realize. Shockingly, The National Safety Council reports that texting while driving leads to a staggering 1.6 million crashes each year. An unknown phenomenon a scant 15 years ago, texting while driving accounts for 1 out of every 4 crashes in the United States. More sobering? Florida ranks number 3 in the nation for the most fatalities due to reckless or distracted driving. Pro tip? Experts recommend putting your phone or purse in the backseat while driving, so you’re not tempted to take your eyes off the road. That tweet, Facebook post, or “LOL” isn’t worth a life – it can wait.
- Drunken Driving
Through national education measures and stringent legal consequences have increased public awareness of the dangers of driving under the influence, drunken driving still causes a significant number of fatal car crashes each year, most notably in rural areas that lack reliable public transportation. In South Florida, where Uber, Lyft and the like are prolific, there’s simply no excuse. Enjoy your night (or day) out in the knowledge that your ride home will be without incident!
- Weather
In South Florida, we’re no stranger to inclimate weather. Unfortunately many can be lulled into a false sense of complacency when behind the wheel, underestimating the profound power of Mother Nature. Nationwide, rain-slicked roads lead the way in fatal car crashes, surpassing both fog and snow as instigators of accidents. When rain mixes with the fine coat of oil on the roadway, the risk of hydroplaning skyrockets, putting drivers at increased risk of a crash.
Time behind the wheel can be exhilarating, and even luxurious! But it also poses serious risks. Know your (and your vehicle’s) limits, and prevent tragedy before it has a chance to occur. In the unfortunate event, however, that you or a loved one becomes the victim of a car accidents, our team of specialists is standing by, ready and waiting to guide you back to health!