With school out and vacationers from around the country descending on Florida’s beaches and family entertainment hubs, summer is a busy time of year in places like West Palm Beach. While this means even more for the local economy, it also, unfortunately, means increased congestion – and, with it, an increased risk of car accidents.
As you drive through Palm Beach County this summer, it is important to be aware of the risks posed by others around you. Here are some key facts to keep in mind car accidents during the summer vacation season:
1. Sun Glare is a Very Real Issue.
During both the morning commute and the evening drive home, sun glare can be a very real issue on roads traveling east to west. While drivers can take basic steps to protect themselves and others (such as wearing sunglasses, using sun visors, and slowing down when they have limited visibility), accidents caused by sun glare are common. If you are driving as the sun is coming up or going down, do your part to stay safe, and try to make sure you have plenty of room behind and in front of your vehicle.
2. Partiers Are Not as Careful as They Should Be.
During the summer vacation season, alcohol-impaired driving is a major risk for everyone on the road. Despite the well-known risks of drinking and driving, far too many late-night partiers choose to drive themselves home. Know the signs of drunk driving, and give a wide berth to any drivers who appear to be impaired.
3. Far Too Many People Think They Can Multitask Behind the Wheel.
Smartphones have practically made multitasking a way of life; and, for many people, this extends behind the wheel. However, studies have shown that our brains simply cannot process our surroundings as effectively when we are distracted by text messages, social media posts, GPS directions, and calls from friends and family. In fact, there is research to suggest that distracted driving can be just as dangerous as drunk driving. With vacationers trying to find the beach and locals trying to connect with friends and loved ones, distracted driving is a huge issue during the summer months in Florida.
4. Accident-Related Injuries Can Last Well Past the Summer Months.
While many people’s first reaction after being injured in a summer car accident is to lament missing time under the sun, the reality is that the effects of accident-related injuries can last well past the summer months. From broken bones to concussions, all types of traumatic injuries can lead to exorbitant medical bills, substantial time missed from work, ongoing therapy and treatment, and prolonged pain and suffering.
5. The Insurance Companies Do Not Take Summers Off.
Sadly, dealing with the insurance companies during summer is no different from dealing with them any other time of the year. The insurance companies approach every car accident case with the same focus on minimizing their liability, and accident victims need to be very careful to avoid mistakes that could jeopardize their financial recoveries.
Get Help with Your Palm Beach County Car Accident Claim
If you have been injured in a Palm Beach County car accident, let the legal team at Brian D. Guralnick Injury Lawyers help you Demand More® for your injury-related losses. To discuss your case in a free and confidential consultation, call me, Brian D. Guralnick, personally at 561-202-6673 today.
Disclaimer: The information in this blog is not intended, and must not be taken, as legal advice on any particular set of facts or circumstances. If you need advice on specific legal issues, please consult with a licensed Personal Injury attorney.
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