As a Florida resident, it might come as startling news to read that your home state has been deemed one of the most dangerous places in the country when it comes to deadly traffic accidents. Specifically, if you are a resident of Hillsborough County, you may want to take note on where the most dangerous roads are located within your county. A study by Smart Growth America revealed that some of the deadliest roads in the entire state of Florida are found in Tampa Bay.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reported that Florida has had the most significant increase in fatal car accidents since 2007. In numerical terms, the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles recorded in 2017 a total of 390,046 traffic accidents, 247,388 resulting in injuries, and almost 3,000 in fatalities. Hillsborough County was responsible for over 12% of those injuries and 16% of deaths. According to the Vision Zero Coalition — a national campaign aimed at eliminating traffic deaths and injuries — in the last decade, Hillsborough County has recorded more traffic fatalities than any other large county nationwide.
One of many areas in Hillsborough County to which the Coalition brings attention includes Brandon Boulevard, particularly the stretch between Falkenburg Road and Dover Road. This stretch alone is responsible for the highest number of traffic accidents per mile between 2012 and 2016. The Coalition reported that during that time, there were 180 severe crashes that resulted in 11 fatalities and 169 incapacitating injuries. The coalition has highlighted a number of important elements that come into play with regard to this dangerous itersection, including gaps in sidewalks, inadequate and faded crosswalks, and poor lighting.
In an effort to eliminate these poor conditions before the end of 2019, plans have been implemented to improve the protection of drivers, pedestrians, and bicyclists, which include repainting crosswalks and bicycle lanes, increasing police activity, reconsidering design standards, and better lighting.
Even though these plans anticipate a positive outcome, it is still up to you as a driver, pedestrian, or bicyclist to avoid distractions and practice vigilance. Whether due to a pothole, a blown tire, or an uneven sidewalk, your surroundings can change in a blink of an eye. To learn about the dangerous intersections and roadways near you, we strongly encourage the use of Caspio’s Online Database.
In the event you are injured as a motorist, pedestrian, or bicyclist, contact the Personal Injury Law Office of Chelsie M. Lamie, P.A., to ensure your rights are properly protected. Call 727-501-3464 for a free consultation. You can also learn more about Attorney Lamie at www.chelsielamie.com.