As Florida Braces for Spring Break Crowds, Traffic Accident Risks Increase

Spring break is upon us, and that means substantially higher than normal crowds in Florida cities and beaches.

While law enforcement is enacting curfews and other crowd control measures, traffic is likely to remain significantly congested. This means that anyone, whether a visitor or resident, is at a heightened risk of being in an automobile accident.

New Spring Break Rules & Curfews

Spring break is known to be a time of raucous partying as young people hit the beaches, bars, and clubs. Florida is a popular destination for these partiers, but past years have shown just how dangerous the crowds can get. Tragically, even deadly shootings have worked their way into spring break, causing cities to declare states of emergency. Meanwhile, fights, public drunkenness, and disorderly conduct remain standard side effects of the celebrations.

Some cities have grown weary of the revelry and have enacted crowd control rules to try to maintain order. Examples include:

Many of these measures have been enacted in Miami Beach, a major spring tourist attraction. In 2021, the city made more than 1,000 arrests of spring breakers, which led to an emergency curfew. In 2022, five people were hurt in two shootings, triggering another curfew.

Then in 2023, the Miami Beach Police Department conducted 488 arrests, impounded 105 firearms and issued 7,190 traffic citations. But by no means were these incidents limited to Miami Beach. Other cities have reported problems as well.

Spring Break Traffic Problems

Cities have warned residents and visitors to expect bumper-to-bumper traffic. A recent study by the University of Miami determined that car-crash fatalities increase significantly at popular spring break destinations. The peak is seen from the end of February through early April as young tourists flock to the state. Meanwhile other accidents, although non-fatal, have been reported. These wrecks can leave victims with painful and sometimes life-altering injuries such as:

• Broken bones
• Internal organ damage
• Neck, back, and spinal cord injuries
• Traumatic brain injury
• Soft tissue injury
• Paralysis
• Whiplash

Many car accidents have been attributed to drunk driving associated with spring break alcohol consumption. Other reasons for car crashes include:

• Distracted driving (e.g. using the cell phone while driving)
• Speeding
• Reckless or aggressive driving
• Poor road conditions
• Unsafe lane changes
• Tailgating
• Traffic law violations

All of these and other causes are likely to be more prevalent in Florida as spring break continues.

What To Do If You’ve Been Injured

It’s no secret that traffic congestion and spring break crowds can be a dangerous combination. But the fact remains that everyone is expected to obey the law and conduct themselves responsibly. Those who don’t, and thereby cause accidents, could leave victims with significant damages. Medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering are just a few examples.

These losses should not be borne by the victims. This is where having an experienced personal injury lawyer is essential. Klotzman Law Firm is dedicated to representing the victims of Florida car accidents. If you or a loved one have been hurt, report the incident to law enforcement and seek immediate medical attention. Then, reach out to our firm to discuss your legal options. Give us a call today.