James Frazier | | Car Accident
The Florida car accident attorneys at Paul | Knopf | Bigger are here to explain the most common types of car accidents in Florida and the frequent injuries that result from them. Understanding these can help you stay vigilant and safer on the roads.

Florida Car Accidents: Most Common Types of Accidents and Injuries

Car accidents in Florida are a frequent occurrence, leading to a variety of injuries and damage. The state’s heavy traffic, unpredictable weather, and high tourism rate contribute to a range of accident types. These incidents not only result in vehicle damage but often cause severe injuries and fatalities. The Florida car accident attorneys at Paul | Knopf | Bigger are here to explain the most common types of car accidents in Florida and the frequent injuries that result from them. Understanding these can help you stay vigilant and safer on the roads.  If you have immediate questions, contact us at (800) 434-4327.

These collisions range in severity, from minor fender benders to catastrophic crashes, and are often caused by a combination of factors such as distracted driving, speeding, and adverse weather conditions.

The Most Common Types of Car Accidents in Florida

Florida has some of the most congested roads in the country with millions of residents and tourists on the roads each year. Unfortunately that means a lot of car accidents across the state. These range from minor fender benders to catastrophic crashes and are often caused by a combination of factors like distracted driving, speeding and bad weather. The attorneys at Paul | Knopf | Bigger will look at the most common types of car accidents in Florida, how they happen and the risks to drivers and passengers.

Rear-End Collisions

The most common type of accident in Florida is the rear-end collision. This is when one car crashes into the back of another, often due to tailgating, distracted driving or sudden stops. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) says 29% of all accidents in the U.S. are rear-end collisions.

Causes of Rear-End Collisions

  • Distracted driving: Texting, talking on the phone or any other activity that takes your eyes off the road.
  • Tailgating: Following too close behind another car with not enough stopping distance.
  • Sudden stops: Caused by traffic, an unexpected obstruction or weather.

Common Injuries from Rear-End Collisions

  • Whiplash: A common neck injury from the sudden jerking motion of the head.
  • Back injuries: Herniated discs or spinal injuries from the impact.
  • Head and brain injuries: Even at low speeds a rear-end collision can cause concussions or traumatic brain injuries (TBI).

Side-Impact Collisions (T-Bone Accidents)

Side-impact collisions, also known as T-bone accidents, occur when one vehicle strikes the side of another. These accidents often happen at intersections and are typically caused by failure to yield or running red lights. The broadside nature of the impact leaves the driver or passengers on the receiving side highly vulnerable to injury.

Causes of T-Bone Accidents

  • Failure to yield: Drivers may fail to yield the right of way at intersections.
  • Running red lights: Drivers trying to beat a red light are a common cause of these accidents.
  • Speeding: Excessive speed can result in more severe impacts at intersections.

Common Injuries from Side-Impact Collisions

  • Fractures: Broken bones, particularly in the arms, legs, and ribs, are common due to the force of the impact.
  • Head trauma: Direct impact to the head can lead to concussions or severe brain injuries.
  • Internal injuries: Damage to internal organs, such as the liver or spleen, can occur in high-speed side-impact crashes.

Head-On Collisions

Head-on collisions are some of the most dangerous types of accidents, often resulting in fatalities. These occur when two vehicles traveling in opposite directions collide front-to-front. The force of these crashes is usually immense, leading to devastating injuries.

Causes of Head-On Collisions

  • Wrong-way driving: A driver traveling in the wrong direction on a one-way street or highway.
  • Distracted driving: Veering into oncoming traffic due to distraction.
  • Drowsy driving: Falling asleep at the wheel can cause drivers to drift into opposing lanes.

Common Injuries from Head-On Collisions

  • Traumatic brain injuries: Severe head trauma is common in these types of crashes.
  • Chest injuries: The force of impact can cause broken ribs or internal bleeding.
  • Lower body injuries: Broken legs, pelvis, or severe injuries to the feet and knees can result from being trapped in the vehicle.

Rollover Accidents

Rollover accidents occur when a vehicle flips onto its side or roof. These accidents are more common in SUVs and trucks due to their higher center of gravity. Speeding, sharp turns, or impact with another vehicle can cause a rollover. These accidents can be particularly devastating, as occupants may be ejected from the vehicle if they are not wearing seatbelts.

Causes of Rollover Accidents

  • Excessive speed: High speeds increase the risk of losing control, leading to rollovers.
  • Sharp turns: Sudden, sharp maneuvers, particularly in top-heavy vehicles, can cause rollovers.
  • Multi-vehicle collisions: Impact with other vehicles can push a car off balance, resulting in a rollover.

Common Injuries from Rollover Accidents

  • Spinal cord injuries: The force of being thrown around inside the vehicle can result in serious spinal injuries.
  • Severe head trauma: Rollovers often result in severe head injuries, mainly if occupants are ejected.
  • Crush injuries: The roof of the vehicle may collapse during the rollover, leading to life-threatening crush injuries.

Multi-Vehicle Pileups

Multi car pileups, also known as chain reaction accidents, happen when more than 2 cars are involved in a crash. These happen on highways and interstates in Florida more often than you think, especially during heavy traffic or bad weather. Pileups can have dozens of cars and the risk of injury is much higher due to multiple impacts.

Causes of Multi-Vehicle Pileups

  • Fog or rain: Reduced visibility and slippery roads can cause cars to crash into each other in rapid succession.
  • Tailgating: Following too close can cause a chain reaction crash when the car in front of you stops suddenly.
  • Speeding: Going too fast reduces reaction time and increases your chances of being in a pileup.

Common Injuries from Multi-Vehicle Pileups

  • Multiple trauma: You may be hit by multiple cars and suffer compound injuries.
  • Burn injuries: Fires are more common in multi car crashes so burn injuries are more likely.
  • Crush injuries: Cars can be crushed between other cars causing life threatening crush injuries.

The severity of these injuries often depends on factors such as the type of accident, the speed of the vehicles involved, and whether or not passengers were wearing seatbelts. Understanding the most common injuries that occur in car accidents is crucial, as it helps both drivers and passengers recognize the potential dangers and seek appropriate medical care.

Most Common Injuries in Florida Car Accidents

Car accidents in Florida can result in a wide range of injuries, from minor bruises to life-threatening trauma. The severity of these injuries often depends on factors such as the type of accident, the speed of the vehicles involved, and whether or not passengers were wearing seatbelts. Understanding the most common injuries that occur in car accidents is crucial, as it helps both drivers and passengers recognize the potential dangers and seek appropriate medical care. The Florida car accident attorneys at Paul | Knopf | Bigger want you to be aware of the most frequent injuries sustained in Florida car accidents and their potential long-term effects.

Whiplash

Whiplash is one of the most common injuries resulting from car accidents, especially rear-end collisions. It occurs when the head is abruptly jerked forward and backward, straining the neck muscles and ligaments. While often considered a minor injury, untreated whiplash can lead to chronic pain and mobility issues.

  • Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)

Car accidents are a leading cause of traumatic brain injuries. These injuries occur when a blow to the head disrupts normal brain function, leading to anything from a mild concussion to permanent brain damage. Even seemingly minor accidents can result in TBIs, particularly when the head strikes a hard surface.

  • Broken Bones

Fractures are common in car accidents, especially in side-impact collisions. Arms, legs, ribs, and pelvis are frequently broken due to the force of the crash or being trapped inside the vehicle. Recovery from broken bones can take weeks to months, with some cases requiring surgery.

  • Spinal Cord Injuries

Injuries to the spinal cord can result in partial or complete paralysis. These injuries are often life-altering and require extensive rehabilitation. Rollover accidents and head-on collisions are the most common causes of spinal injuries, but even lower-speed crashes can lead to significant damage to the spine.

  • Internal Injuries

The blunt force trauma experienced in car accidents can cause severe damage to internal organs. Injuries to the liver, spleen, kidneys, or lungs can lead to internal bleeding, which is not always immediately apparent. Internal injuries require urgent medical attention and can be life-threatening if left untreated.

Being involved in a car accident is a traumatic and stressful experience, but knowing the proper steps to take can make the situation more manageable. In Florida, specific legal and practical measures should be followed immediately after an accident to protect your safety, rights, and financial interests.

Steps to Take If You’ve Been Involved in a Car Accident in Florida

Being involved in a car accident is a traumatic and stressful experience, but knowing the proper steps to take can make the situation more manageable. In Florida, specific legal and practical measures should be followed immediately after an accident to protect your safety, rights, and financial interests.

Check for Injuries and Ensure Safety

The first and most crucial step is to check for injuries. Your safety and the safety of others involved should be the priority.

  • If anyone is injured, call 911 immediately for medical assistance.
  • If you’re physically able, move to a safe location to avoid further accidents, especially if the collision occurred on a busy road or highway.
  • If it’s safe, remain at the accident scene to avoid legal consequences, as leaving could be considered a hit-and-run.

Contact Law Enforcement

In Florida, it is mandatory to report the accident to local law enforcement if:

  • The accident results in injuries, fatalities, or property damage exceeding $500.
  • Always call 911 if there are injuries. For minor accidents, call the non-emergency number.

When the police arrive, ensure that a report is filed. Having an official police report is critical when it comes to insurance claims and potential legal actions.

Exchange Information with Other Parties Involved

Exchange relevant information with the other driver(s) involved in the accident, including:

  • Names, addresses, and contact information.
  • Driver’s license numbers.
  • Vehicle registration numbers and license plates.
  • Insurance information (company name and policy number).

Avoid discussing who is at fault during this exchange. It is best to let the police report and insurance companies determine liability based on evidence.

Document the Scene

Collect as much evidence from the scene as possible. Use your phone or a camera to take detailed photos and videos of:

  • Vehicle damage.
  • Skid marks, debris, and the surrounding environment.
  • License plates of all vehicles involved.
  • Traffic signs or signals that may have contributed to the accident.

Also, try to collect contact information from any witnesses. Eyewitness testimony can be vital in establishing liability in more complicated accidents.

Seek Medical Attention

Even if you feel fine after the accident, seeking medical attention as soon as possible is essential. Some injuries, like whiplash or internal injuries, may not be immediately apparent but can manifest later.

  • Florida’s Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance requires that you seek medical treatment within 14 days of the accident to qualify for benefits.
  • Keep all records of your medical visits, treatments, and prescriptions, as these will be necessary for your insurance claim or any potential personal injury lawsuit.

Notify Your Insurance Company

After addressing immediate concerns, promptly notify your insurance company about the accident. Provide them with all the information you’ve gathered, including:

  • The police report.
  • Photos of the accident scene.
  • Medical records, if available.

In Florida, no-fault insurance laws require you to file a claim with your own insurance company first, regardless of who caused the accident. This is handled under your PIP coverage, which typically covers up to 80% of medical expenses and 60% of lost wages, depending on your policy.

Consider Legal Counsel

If you were seriously injured or the accident was complex, you may want to consult with a personal injury attorney. A lawyer can:

  • Help negotiate with the insurance company for a fair settlement.
  • Guide you through the legal process if a lawsuit is necessary.
  • Protect your rights, especially if fault is disputed or if you are facing substantial medical bills.

Keep Records and Follow Up

Maintain all records related to the accident, including:

  • Medical bills and insurance paperwork.
  • Repair estimates for vehicle damage.
  • Correspondence with the insurance company and other involved parties.

Keep track of your case, especially if medical treatment is ongoing or if your vehicle is still being repaired.

Key Points to Remember

  • Stay calm and stay safe: Your immediate priority should be your safety and the safety of others.
  • Report the accident to the police and document the scene thoroughly.
  • Seek medical attention even if you don’t feel injured.
  • Notify your insurance company and consider consulting with a lawyer if needed.

Following these steps can help protect you legally and financially after a car accident in Florida.

Paul | Knopf | Bigger - Florida Injury Attorneys

Talk to the Florida Car Accident Attorneys at Paul | Knopf | Bigger

Understanding the most common types of car accidents and the injuries they cause can help drivers in Florida stay vigilant and better protect themselves on the road. While not all accidents can be avoided, safe driving habits such as avoiding distractions, obeying traffic signals, and maintaining a safe following distance can reduce the risk of collisions and severe injuries.  If you have more questions, speak with a Florida car accident attorney at Paul | Knopf | Bigger. Call us at (800) 434-4327.

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