By many accounts, 2015 is expected to have been one of the deadliest years in recent memory for drivers and passengers in Florida and throughout the country. By the middle of the year, the number of traffic-related fatalities was on pace to set the highest annual mark since 2007. While we are still awaiting the final national data, we now know that there were 2,604 fatal accidents in Florida in 2015. This is higher than the number each year from 2011 through 2014.
The good news is that 2016 is off to a better start than 2015. The bad news, which we have unfortunately come to expect, is that people are still suffering injuries and dying on Florida’s roads every single day.
Florida Vehicle Collisions in 2016
Through the first three weeks of January, the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles reports that there have already been nearly 14,000 vehicle crashes in Florida. This includes over 5,700 accidents involving injuries, with more than 3,000 of those accidents involving injuries to multiple victims. There have been 70 fatal accidents so far this year, resulting in 75 fatalities.
Other statistics for the start of the year include (as of January 20, 2016):
- 1,304 accidents involving commercial vehicles
- 342 pedestrian accidents resulting in 17 pedestrian fatalities
- 211 bicycle crashes resulting in 6 rider fatalities
As noted above, these appear to be improvements when compared to 2015, which averaged 217 fatalities each month. However, these figures still represent significant numbers of individuals whose lives are being changed (and in some cases lost) on a daily basis.
Vehicle Collision Statistics for Crestview and Okaloosa County
In Crestview and Okaloosa County, there were 95 auto accidents in the first three weeks of 2016. Thirty-eight of these accidents resulted in injuries; however, the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles reports zero fatalities in Okaloosa County so far this year.
These numbers are also below the monthly averages for 2015, when the county saw totals of 3,357 accidents and 34 fatalities. However, based on historical data, we would expect accident figures to be higher during the spring and summer months.
What to Do if You Are Injured in an Auto Accident in Florida
Unfortunately, we will undoubtedly continue to see auto accident numbers rise throughout 2016. If you are injured in an accident, there are a number of steps you should take to preserve both your health and your legal rights. These include:
- Stop, pull over, and call the 911 at the scene of the accident.
- Collect the other driver’s contact, vehicle, and insurance information.
- Take photos of the scene, your vehicle, the other vehicle and your injuries.
- Collect the names and contact information of any witnesses.
- Seek prompt medical attention (even if you initially feel fine) and follow your doctor’s advice.
- Contact an attorney to discuss your case.
Powell, Powell & Powell, P.A. | Crestview Auto Accident Attorneys Serving Crestview, FL
The attorneys at Powell, Powell & Powell, P.A. provide experienced legal representation for auto accident victims in Crestview, FL. If you have been injured or lost a loved one in a collision in 2016, feel free to contact our offices for a complimentary consultation.