Safety concerns for one of Florida’s busiest interstates

On Behalf of | Feb 21, 2019 | Car Accidents, Truck Accidents |

As a Florida driver, you have likely spent time driving on Interstate 75. This is a major interstate that runs through the Tampa area, and it is one of the main roads traveled by the millions of tourists every year. It is one of the busiest interstates in the state, but it is also one of the most dangerous.

Drivers who travel down I-75 from other states note that speeding and dangerous driving often increase once crossing the state line. Some people believe that this is because there are fewer state troopers monitoring speeds and pulling drivers over who violate the speed limit. Regardless of why the Florida portion of I-75 is dangerous, you may agree with others who believe it is important to increase safety on this interstate for all motorists.

The deadly consequences of dangerous driving

People note that drivers often exhibit reckless and even outright aggressive behaviors on I-75. Swerving, excessive speeds, following too closely and other dangerous actions are common. Sadly, dangerous drivers often cause serious accidents, and on I-75, these accidents frequently have fatal consequences.

The role of large trucks

There is some reason to believe that large trucks and heavy semitrailers are part of the reason why there is a significant number of serious motor vehicle accidents along the I-75 corridor. A serious accident after this last Christmas involving multiple trucks and passenger vehicles left several dead, including children, and several injured.

The incredibly tragic nature of this specific accident may lead to some people bringing up the possibility of the state building a new road to divert traffic off of I-75. This road would run through Alachua and Marion counties. You may note that another road could also alleviate heavy northbound traffic in the event of a hurricane evacuation.

What can the state authorities do?

A group that studied the safety problem on I-75 recommended several steps the state can take to make the road safer. Whether it is adding more law enforcement to monitor speeds or offering segregated truck lanes, state authorities should do everything possible to reduce accidents and lower the number of fatalities on this popular interstate. 

If you are the victim of an accident that occurred on I-75, it may not be your fault. You may find it beneficial to explore your legal options to determine if you have grounds to move forward with a civil claim in order to pursue rightful compensation.

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attorneys Brad Culpepper and Brett J. Kurland