Recovering After a Crash
While Florida is known for its warm weather and gorgeous beaches, it’s also known for something less glamorous. Interstate 4 in Florida—which runs from Tampa to Daytona Beach— has the distinction of being the most dangerous interstate in America.
This 132-mile stretch of roadway has the highest fatality rate of all the interstates in the United States. Between 2010 and 2015, the fatality rate was calculated at 1.41 per mile. Interstate 4 is not the only dangerous interstate in Florida, though. Interstates 95 and 10—which also run through the state—also made the list at numbers 5 and 7, respectively. What is Causing the Accidents? Distracted driving is a huge issue, with motorists using their mobile device an average of 1.4 times per trip. Florida is also ranked at second worst in the nation for phone use while driving, even though the state has laws prohibiting distracted driving. Another factor leading to a high number of accidents in Florida is a high level of tourism. Interstate 4 is a major highway that connects to many of the major tourist attractions in the Orlando area, such as Walt Disney World, SeaWorld Orlando and Universal Orlando. Tourists are not familiar with the area, so many use their GPS while driving to help them get to their destination. This leads to distractions, which causes accidents. Florida Law Regarding Distracted Driving According to Florida Statute 316.305—also known as the Florida Ban on Texting While Driving Law—the following rules apply: A person may not operate a motor vehicle while manually typing...into a wireless communications device...for the purpose of nonvoice interpersonal communication, including, but not limited to, communication methods known as texting, e-mailing, and instant messaging. The kicker is that texting while driving is illegal in Florida only as a secondary offense. This means that motorists cannot be pulled over and cited solely for texting. They must be pulled over for another offense, such as speeding or running a stop sign, before they can be cited for texting. If they are cited for texting, the fine is only $30. In addition, there is no law against talking on the phone while driving. This makes Florida one of the most lenient states in terms of cell phone use. Perhaps that is why the accident rate is so high, and why legislators need to toughen these laws soon. How to Stay Safe on the Interstate Whether you’re driving the interstate in Florida or anywhere else in the country, here are some tips for safe driving:
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
|