Summary:
- Dangerous Florida intersections pose even more of a threat during the holidays.
- Many factors make intersections more hazardous between Christmas and New Year’s Day.
- Five of the most dangerous intersections are found in Orlando, Altamonte Springs, Winter Park, Miami, and Fort Lauderdale.
- Planning your trip and staying attentive can help you avoid accidents at crowded intersections.
- There are several things you can do to protect your health and case after a wreck.
There are a lot of dangerous Florida intersections – so many that narrowing down the top five is challenging. While we have a fantastic state to live in, there’s no denying that it can be risky to get behind the wheel. This is especially the case during the holiday season.
The following is a list of five hazardous intersections to avoid, if possible, as you take care of your holiday to-do list. If you’re hurt in an accident that’s not your fault, contact an attorney as soon as possible so they can help you obtain the compensation you deserve.
A Florida car accident lawyer with The Eberst Law Firm is standing by to tell you how we’ll fight for your rights. Call 772-225-5566 or use our online form for a free consultation.
Why Florida Intersections Become More Dangerous During the Holidays
It’s almost impossible to avoid dangerous Florida intersections, regardless of the time of the year. Experts estimate nearly 7 million people drive throughout the state between Dec. 23 and New Year’s Day. That number doesn’t even include tourists from out of state.
The hustle and bustle on Florida roads intensify as the holiday season approaches. Unfortunately, this heightened activity can make dangerous Florida intersections even more hazardous. These are just some factors contributing to the increased risk during the holidays.
- The influx of tourists and out-of-town visitors unfamiliar with local traffic patterns can create confusion and unpredictability at intersections. The mix of seasoned locals and those unfamiliar with Florida’s roads can lead to misinterpretations, delayed reactions, and a higher likelihood of accidents.
- Holiday shopping and last-minute errands also contribute to increased traffic congestion. As drivers rush to check off their to-do lists, intersections become hotspots for collisions. The desire to reach destinations quickly, combined with the stress of holiday preparations, may lead to reckless driving behaviors such as speeding, aggressive maneuvering, and running red lights.
- The holiday season sometimes brings adverse weather conditions to Florida, including sporadic rain showers and reduced visibility. Slippery roads and impaired visibility at intersections can significantly elevate the risk of accidents.
- Moreover, celebrating holidays involves gatherings with family and friends, leading to increased social events. The potential for impaired driving due to holiday festivities adds a layer of danger at intersections.
Top 5 Dangerous Florida Intersections
You could easily argue there are dozens of dangerous Florida intersections. However, five of them stand out. Here’s a quick look at each.
- Orange Ave. and Gore St. (Orlando) – Orange Avenue is part of State Road 527. It’s a four-lane highway that runs near not only Orlando Medical Center but also several retail stores, ones that are packed during the holidays. While the speed limit is 35 miles an hour, motorists ignore it regularly. The area near Gore Street is notoriously dangerous, not just for motorists but also pedestrians. Trying to walk across this intersection is a significant risk.
- State Road 436 at Palm Springs Dr. (Altamonte Springs) – This intersection is even more challenging since motorists often ignore the 45-mile-an-hour speed limit. To make things worse, a nearby SunRail train station is often packed with pedestrians trying to get to Altamonte Mall or Publix to take care of last-minute holiday shopping.
- Aloma Ave. at Lakemont Ave. (Winter Park) – It’s hard to imagine such a busy intersection with no street lights, but that’s the case. The congestion is bad enough. Disaster is always imminent when people try to navigate this area at night. This is definitely one of the most dangerous Florida intersections.
- NE Second St. and 36th St. (Miami) – Cars routinely stack up at this intersection as they try to turn left to go east on 36th St. In turn, this also blocks drivers trying to go north. People also try to get on and off the nearby Julia Tuttle Causeway. Add the holiday rush, and you’ve got big problems.
- A1A at Las Olas Blvd. (Fort Lauderdale) – Anyone who lives in or near Fort Lauderdale tries to avoid this intersection, especially during the holidays. Not only is it packed with cars, but bicyclists and pedestrians are also trying to get across the street. There’s also a drawbridge that often goes up to accommodate boats. Needless to say, this intersection is one to stay away from whenever possible.
Tips for Safe Driving Around Dangerous Intersections this Holiday Season
Thankfully, you can avoid these and other dangerous Florida intersections in many ways. Try to keep this in mind whenever you’re driving during the holidays, as well as other months of the year.
- Plan ahead: Familiarize yourself with the route and intersections before setting out. Planning your journey reduces stress and the likelihood of making abrupt decisions at intersections.
- Avoid peak traffic hours: Schedule travel during off-peak hours to minimize exposure to heavy traffic and congestion.
- Stay attentive: Pay close attention to traffic signals, road signs, and other drivers. Avoid distractions, such as using mobile devices, to ensure you can react promptly.
- Maintain a safe following distance: Leave plenty of room between your car and the vehicle in front of you to allow for sudden stops and maneuvers.
- Adapt to weather conditions: Florida’s unpredictable weather can impact road conditions. Adjust your driving for rain, reduced visibility, or slippery roads.
What to Do if You’re Involved in an Intersection Accident
In the unfortunate event of an intersection accident, take the following steps:
- Ensure safety: Check for injuries and move to a safe location.
- Call emergency services: Call 911 to report the accident and request medical assistance.
- Exchange information: Exchange contact and insurance information with the other parties involved in the accident.
- Document the scene: Take photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and relevant road signs. This documentation can be crucial for insurance claims and legal proceedings.
- Get medical help: You must see a doctor immediately, even if you think your injury is minor. Many injuries don’t show symptoms until long after an accident. Failing to get treatment could damage your health and your case.
- Contact law enforcement: Report the accident to the police and obtain a copy of the accident report. State law mandates you call the police if there are injuries or significant property damage.
- Contact your insurance company: Notify your insurance company about the accident as soon as possible.
Contact The Eberst Law Firm to Speak with an Experienced Attorney
If you’ve been involved in an accident at one of the dangerous Florida intersections, speak with an attorney as soon as you can. The experienced lawyers with The Eberst Law Firm can provide guidance, assess your case, and help you understand your legal options. Call 772-225-5566 or contact us online for a free case review.
Frequently Asked Questions
What legal options do I have if I’m involved in a Florida intersection accident?
If you suffer an injury in a Florida intersection accident, you may qualify to file a personal injury lawsuit. Consult with an experienced attorney to assess the specifics of your case and determine the best course of action.
Are there any specific times during the holidays when these intersections are the most dangerous?
While increased traffic is a consistent factor during the holiday season, evenings and weekends may present more risk due to holiday events, shopping rushes, and social gatherings.
How long do I have to file a car accident lawsuit in Florida?
Florida’s statute of limitations for filing a car accident lawsuit is two years from the accident date. If you miss this deadline, you’ll likely be unable to pursue compensation.
