How Weather Conditions in Florida Influence Road Accidents and Liability

People from all over the country move to Florida yearly, hoping to escape colder, unforgiving climates in favor of warmer, sunnier ones. While it’s true that Florida is called the Sunshine State, it also has some unpredictable weather patterns.

So how do Florida’s weather conditions influence road accidents and liability? 

What Types of Weather-Related Accidents Are There in Florida?

Florida is known for sudden and torrential downpours. While these quick weather patterns usually last only an hour or two, they can cause severe car accidents for drivers on the road because of:

• Fog: Fog usually occurs in the early morning and around dusk; the thicker the mist, the more compromised the visibility — if you can’t see a car on the road, you’ll likely get into an accident
• Hydroplaning: Hydroplaning occurs when your tires lose traction on the road due to rainy weather conditions — losing control of your vehicle can cause tragic car accidents
• Sun Glare: Living in the Sunshine State naturally means sunshine — but when the sunshine causes sun glare, it can also cause an accident
• Heatwaves: Florida’s extreme heat in the summertime can lead to tire blowouts, and tire blowouts can cause devastating accidents, especially on major roads

These are just a few of the many weather conditions affecting Florida drivers.

What to Do if You’ve Been in an Accident

Unlike many other states, Florida is a no-fault state. Under the law, all drivers must carry personal injury protection (PIP) insurance, which will cover expenses related to the accident regardless of who was at fault.

However, PIP rarely covers all expenses, and that’s where Shrader, Mendez & O’Connell come in. We’ve been fighting for the rights of Tampa-area accident victims for over a decade. Call us at 813-360-1529 to schedule your free consultation, and let’s discuss the details of your case.