Thanksgiving Deadly Crashes in Kissimmee

For the past two years, Kissimmee, FL has seen tragic auto collisions that caused lives. This year, amid COVID-19 concerns, gas prices are dramatically lower than usual, dropping below $2.00 in some places. And even though there are travel restrictions being imposed, people are still going to travel. It will remain to be seen whether the worldwide pandemic will contribute to more highway fatalities or whether it will reduce the number of highway deaths.

Experienced Kissimmee auto accident lawyers frequently see fatalities increase during the holidays. Consider the past few years.

2018 

In 2018, reports indicate that a 28-year-old man was killed when one vehicle swerved quickly and collided with traffic in the other lane.

2019 

In 2019, a 42-year-old woman died in a rollover crash in Osceola County. The others involved were also seriously injured.

Holidays are Just Beginning 

As Christmas approaches, drivers should take time to keep a little more distance and drive a little slower. 

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the holidays are often plagued by higher-than-usual fatalities and serious injuries. The NHTSA reviewed the numbers nationally for 2017 and found that even though the annual number of traffic fatalities per day was 102, the average for the most popular holidays (New Year’s Day, Memorial Day, Fourth of July, Labor Day, Thanksgiving, and Christmas/New Year’s Day) was 119 deaths per day.

Safe Driving this Holiday Season 

There are, of course, practical suggestions for safer driving this holiday season. First, with Florida COVID-19 numbers continuing to rise, it may be wiser to stay home for the holidays and limit unnecessary travel. For those who must travel, be sure only drive in weather you are comfortable navigating. Many Floridians are dual residents who spend part of the year here and part of the year in northern places. Lack of familiarity with local roads and construction can also create problems. It’s wise to have a working and updated GPS device to help navigate unfamiliar places. It also reduces the chances of having a crash.  Consider having your vehicle serviced before weather gets too bad, and don’t forget your tires. Always use your seatbelt and drink responsibly. Drunk or impaired driving is responsible for a considerable number of all serious and fatal crashes each year.

And if you are hurt in a car accident, remember, do not speak with the insurance company without an attorney. Do not admit liability or fault, and be sure to get a police report. You should also be sure to let the authorities know about the crash, even if the other driver insists on not doing so.  Finally, make sure you get medical attention as soon as possible. Then visit Draper Law Office today, or call to schedule a free initial case consultation.

Resource:

orlandosentinel.com/news/os-ne-victim-identified-in-fatal-thanksgiving-fl-turnpike-crash-20181122-story.html