Car accidents caused by unavoidable situations can be tragic all by themselves. A sudden tire blowout or a freak brake cylinder malfunction on a highway can result in multiple serious injuries or fatalities. However, car accidents caused by preventable events such as illegal car racing can be particularly heartbreaking.
According to numbers compiled in 2001 from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, police agencies throughout the country cited street racing as a component in at least 135 fatal car wrecks. Shockingly, that number represented an increase in 72 fatalities linked to street racing from the previous year.
Florida residents should know that street racing is banned throughout the state, both on highways and other surface streets. Florida statutes also provide stiff penalties such as vehicle seizures and hefty fines for street racing participants as well as observers. Despite these risks, numerous people still engage in the dangerous pastime. In fact, in 2001 Florida law enforcement officials issued 7,216 citations for rule violations related to racing on the highway. Back in 1999, the Florida Department of Highway Safety for Motor Vehicles recorded 28 accidents linked to illegal street racing. Those accidents claimed the lives of two victims and injured 27 others.
Arguably, one of the worst things about street racing is that the illegal and totally preventable activity can often adversely affect non-participants. According to national statistics, for every 1000 people participating in illegal street racing there are 49 individuals injured as a result of those activities.
Florida residents have a right to expect to safely use their roadways. If you have been injured as a result of someone else’s reckless or careless driving then you may be entitled to recover the costs of your medical expenses. You may also be able to seek recovery for any time that your injuries prevented you from going to work. A Florida car accident attorney can help review the facts of your case and determine whether civil litigation may be required.
Source: National Hot Rod Association, “Street Smart- Take it to the track,” accessed March. 31, 2015