Although driving is a fundamental part of most people’s daily routines and professions, motor vehicle accidents still occur on a daily basis. As traffic volumes continue to increase and distractions become more prevalent, it is crucial to learn about the common types of risky driving behaviors that cause accidents in Florida.
Driving under the influence (DUI)
Driving while under the influence of drugs or alcohol is not only dangerous but extremely irresponsible. In 2024, The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles reported an estimated total of 44,962 DUI citations. According to the organization, alcohol use can impair drivers in several different ways:
- The driver has a slower response time.
- The driver has short-term memory functions.
- The driver has poor hand-eye coordination.
- The driver has trouble focusing.
- The driver has difficulty perceiving distance.
When a person decides to drive while they are impaired, they are intentionally risking not just their own life, but the lives of every other driver and pedestrian on the road as well.
Distracted driving
This risky driving behavior happens when the driver’s focus deviates from the road due to handheld forms of distraction. The common sources of this include scrolling through social media videos, texting, playing a mobile game and eating.
It is important to remember that taking your eyes off the road for even a split second can cause an accident, leading to severe injuries, property damage and even death.
Speeding
Speeding is one of the deadliest forms of risky driving behaviors. When a driver increases their speed, they also decrease their ability to hit on their breaks at their required stopping distance. This dangerous moving action can cause them to collide on full impact with another car — or worse, with multiple vehicles.
Failure to yield right of way (FTYROW)
Every state has their own right-of-way laws that are designed to help curve traffic flow and prevent accidents. When drivers FTYROW, they risk bringing significant harm towards the crossing pedestrians and other motorists
This unsafe driving behavior typically occurs when the drivers ignore traffic laws, run stop signs or red lights and drive aggressively towards marked crosswalks.
Respect the rules of the road
When drivers understand and follow traffic laws, they can drive with caution and recognize any potential risks from the other drivers on the road. By addressing these behaviors early, they can take preventive measures that can ensure their safety on the road.
