Car Accident Safety Tips for West Palm Beach Visitors and Residents

Car accidents in West Palm Beach happen for various reasons but most commonly result from the negligence of one of the drivers involved. West Palm Beach sees more than its share of traffic, especially during the tourist season. This traffic inevitably leads to an increased number of accidents.

If you’ve been involved in a car, truck, or boating accident in West Palm Beach, Florida, you may be able to recover financial compensation for your injuries if another driver was negligent or committed an intentional wrongful act. Contact a West Palm Beach accident attorney at Searcy Denney for help.

What Causes Accidents in West Palm Beach?

Although the mixture of residents and tourists in West Palm Beach is a contributing factor in many vehicle accidents, some of the most common reasons include:

• Tourist traffic
• Speeding
• Drunk driving
• Distracted driving
• Reckless driving
• Driving at night
• Ignoring traffic signals
• Inclement weather
• Mechanical vehicle issues
• Dangerous intersections

What Are the Most Dangerous Intersections in West Palm Beach?

Several intersections in West Palm Beach have historically been proven particularly dangerous, including:

• North Military Trail and Okeechobee Boulevard
• Okeechobee Boulevard and North Haverhill Road
• Southern Boulevard and North State Road 7/South State Road 7
• Okeechobee Boulevard and Interstate 95′s southbound exit ramp
• North Jog Road and Okeechobee Boulevard

It is clear that Okeechobee Boulevard is a particularly dangerous road, showing up in four of the five most dangerous intersections. Because tourists are unfamiliar with West Palm Beach’s dangerous roads and intersections, locals should try to find safer routes to take during tourist season.

What Are Some Safety Tips for West Palm Beach Drivers?

• Drive Safely in Heavy Traffic. In heavy traffic, especially during tourist season, it’s particularly important to practice defensive driving and follow the rules of the road.
• Natural Disaster Safety. Florida’s hurricane season runs from June to November. Tourists should avoid visiting during these months, and residents should follow the hurricane precautions that they should already be familiar with. For new residents, ask a native for help. You should not be driving during hurricane weather.
• Water Sports and Boating Accidents. Distracted driving, impaired driving, and excessive speed are all factors that commonly cause boating accidents. Tourists should become familiar with the local boating laws and take the time to learn about safety before boating.
• Heat Safety and Dehydration. After an accident, you may have to spend a significant amount of time standing alongside the accident site. Tourists are easily caught off-guard by Florida’s dehydration-inducing weather. Drink a lot of water, and watch for signs of dehydration and heatstroke, including rapid breathing, rapid heartbeat, headaches, dizziness, sleepiness, and fainting.
• Sun Safety. When waiting alongside an accident site, residents understand the importance of protecting their skin from Florida’s UV rays. Tourists should be sure to wear sunblock, reapplying as necessary, wear hats, and stand under the shade when possible.
• Child Safety. West Palm Beach is a great place for kids, with the beaches, pools, and amusement parks all within easy range. Develop a plan for finding each other if you get separated from your kids and protect them from the sun. When driving, place something important, such as your purse or phone, next to children in the back seat so you don’t forget them and leave them sleeping in the extreme heat.

Let a West Palm Beach Accident Attorney Help You Develop Safety Plans, Whether You are a Resident or a Tourist

Safety for yourself and your loved ones is your first priority, whether you’re a resident or a visitor. An attorney at Searcy Denney can help you keep yourself and your loved ones safe. If you’ve been injured in an accident, contact us to schedule your free consultation. We work on a contingency fee basis, with no risk to you.