Memorial Day Weekend Safety Tips

Welcome to the kickoff of summer! Memorial Day weekend marks the unofficial start of sunny days, barbecues, and beach trips. While it’s a fun holiday weekend and a time to relax, gather with friends and family, and honor the service men and women who have given their all to defend our country, Memorial Day weekend is also one of the most dangerous times to be on the road in Florida.

Florida is the third most dangerous state for driving during Memorial Day weekend. A study conducted by an independent insurance company using data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration found Florida has the third highest rate of deadly crashes during the holiday weekend.

From congested highways to increased alcohol consumption, several factors contribute to why Florida sees a spike in accidents during Memorial Day Weekend. In this blog, our Tampa car accident attorneys share important safety tips to ensure your holiday weekend is memorable for all the right reasons!

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5 Memorial Day weekend safety tips from our Tampa car accident attorneys

1. Never drink and drive

Today, everyone seems to know that they shouldn’t drink and drive. But, arrest and accident reports show that people still get behind the wheel while intoxicated. Data from the National Safety Council shows that about 40% of all accidents that occur over Memorial Day weekend involve drunk or impaired drivers.

In Florida, it’s important to remember that you should also never operate a boat while drunk or under the influence. Memorial Day weekend sees an increase in boating accidents in Tampa Bay and surrounding areas, with 25% of all accidents involving alcohol or drug use.

Therefore, help keep yourself and others safe by never driving an automobile, boat or watercraft while intoxicated (it can also lead to a felony charge!), using a designated driver, or opting for rideshare services, such as Uber or Lyft. While it’s best to avoid being on roadways during Memorial Day weekend, especially at night, if you must drive, be on the lookout for drivers who may be impaired, avoid passing them, and report them to law enforcement.

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2. Watch out for even more pedestrians, bicycles, scooters and golf carts

With beautiful weather year-round, Tampa Bay and Central Florida naturally have more pedestrians, bicycles, scooters and golf carts on the road. However, during Memorial Day Weekend, these numbers tend to increase.

– When turning at intersections, check for pedestrians, cyclists, and scooter riders before making your maneuver.

– Leave at least three feet of space when passing cyclists and scooter riders, and be patient if you need to wait until it’s safe to pass.

– Scooter riders can be unpredictable, so keep an eye out for them, especially in urban areas with scooter-sharing programs.

– In areas where golf carts are permitted, reduce your speed and be prepared to stop for golf carts crossing the road or entering/exiting driveways.

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3. Review safe driving with your teens

The “100 Deadliest Days” is the period between Memorial Day and Labor Day when fatal teen crashes increase dramatically. Nationwide over 7,000 people died in teen-related crashes from 2010–2019 during this summer period.

Teens drivers have a higher rate of fatal crashes, due to immaturity, lack of skills, and lack of experience. Therefore, if you have a teen driver, take a minute to go over important safety tips for this weekend and the summer.

Start by having open and ongoing conversations about safe driving practices, emphasizing the importance of responsible behavior behind the wheel. Set clear expectations and boundaries regarding alcohol and drug use, reinforcing the dangers of impaired driving. Remind them to always wear their seatbelt and limit distractions while driving, such as cell phone use or loud music. Consider setting a curfew or check-in times for added accountability. Finally, lead by example and demonstrate safe driving habits yourself.

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4. Avoid distractions and stay alert

Keep your focus on the road by avoiding distractions such as texting, talking on the phone, or adjusting the radio while driving. If necessary, designate a passenger to handle navigation or other tasks. In addition, with more people on the road this weekend, be aware of your surroundings and anticipate the actions of other drivers. Leave plenty of space between your vehicle and the one in front of you, and avoid aggressive maneuvers such as tailgating or weaving through traffic.

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5. Be prepared if traveling long distances

You’d be surprised how many car accidents could have been avoided with a little preparation. Here are a few tips to help you plan ahead if you are traveling long distances over Memorial Day weekend.

– Double-check the weather and plan your driving route in advance.

– Make sure your car is in working order (tire pressure, gas, windshield wipers, etc.)

– Pack a small first aid kit in your car.

– Allow extra travel time and avoid speeding.

– If traveling alone, share your route and itinerary with a family member or friend.

By following these tips and practicing safe driving habits, you can help ensure a smooth and enjoyable holiday during Memorial Day weekend. Stay safe!

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Injured in an accident in Central Florida?

Call Darrigo & Diaz at 813-437-9077 to speak with our experienced Central Florida personal injury attorneys.

If your or a loved one has been injured in a car accident in Central Florida, the skilled car accident attorneys at Darrigo & Diaz are here to help. Since 1999, we have helped individuals throughout Central Florida get the justice and compensation they need and deserve. We have the expertise and experience you need to take on big corporations and insurance companies in the courtroom. We fight for our clients, ensuring they receive the physical, emotional and financial support they need to heal, recover, and move forward.

Call 813-437-9077 or contact us online to schedule your free case consultation.