Florida is home to several dangers, from dehydration to alligators roaming through golf courses. There’s something about the Sunshine State that sometimes makes it seem like it’s another country. Still, millions move to the state for the year-round warm weather and others come for extended vacations. No matter which group you fall into, whether relocating to Florida, taking a vacation, or if you’re one of the rare natives, there are certain dangers specific to the state that you should know.
A study conducted by Geotab, based on information from the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), revealed that U.S. 1 was the deadliest road in the nation. According to researchers, in the past decade, there were 1,011 fatal crashes on U.S. 1, leading to 1,079 deaths. U.S. 41, U.S. 27, and U.S. 441 were among the top 5 deadliest highways in Florida with 1,660 fatal crashes having occurred on those roadways. Interstates 75 and 95 were also among the deadliest highways in the country.
Florida leads the nation in registered water vessels with nearly 1 million boats and watercrafts registered in the state. The state also leads the nation in boating accidents and fatalities. In 2016, there were 67 fatalities reported, 29% of which were caused by falls overboard. July is considered the deadliest month for boating. Along with fatalities, there were 412 injuries reported among 714 total accidents, according to the Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission.
More than once, Florida has been considered the most dangerous state for cyclists and pedestrians. For 4 years in a row, “Dangerous by Design,” a report analyzing the most dangerous areas for pedestrians, Florida has ranked at the top. Between 2005 and 2015, more than 5,100 pedestrians were fatally injured. In 2015, per the NHTSA, there were 150 fatalities involving bicyclists in Florida.
These are just a few of the dangers Floridians face each day. Though not as commonly reported, wildlife, such as lionfish, coral snakes, gators, and more, can also lead to serious injuries and fatalities. And of course, nature can quickly lead to plenty of dangerous conditions like lightning, hurricanes, riptides, and heat stroke.
By learning more about these dangers, visitors and residents can remain vigilant about protecting themselves.
Read more about defensive driving tips for accident prevention.