In 2023, Seminole County recorded 6,255 motor vehicle accidents, resulting in 50 fatalities and 4,375 injuries. Understanding the most common causes of crashes in Lake Mary and nearby areas can help drivers stay vigilant and avoid preventable collisions. Car accidents occur for many reasons, including:

Distracted Driving

Distracted driving happens when a driver’s focus shifts away from the road due to outside stimuli or personal activities—greatly increasing the risk of accidents, injuries, and fatalities. It can take many forms, including:

• Texting and driving
• Talking on the phone
• Using GPS devices
• Adjusting controls (radio, climate, etc)
• Eating and drinking
• Grooming (e.g., applying makeup, fixing hair)
• Talking to passengers
• Daydreaming or being mentally distracted
• Looking at something outside the car (rubbernecking)

Florida has implemented laws to combat distracted driving and encourage safer driving behavior. In July 2019, the state enacted the Wireless Communications While Driving Law, making texting while driving a primary offense. This means law enforcement officers can stop and cite drivers solely for texting behind the wheel, even if no other traffic violation has occurred.

Speeding

Speeding is a major contributor to traffic accidents, injuries, and fatalities, posing serious risks to everyone on the road—including drivers, passengers, pedestrians, and cyclists. According to the National Safety Council (NSC), speeding was a factor in nearly 30% of all traffic deaths in 2022, claiming the lives of more than 33 people each day.

Impaired Driving

Florida law strictly prohibits operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. The legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit is 0.08% for drivers age 21 and older, 0.04% for commercial drivers, and 0.02% for individuals under 21. According to the Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV), alcohol was confirmed as a factor in over 475 crashes statewide—resulting in 41 fatalities and 41 serious injuries.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), a higher percentage of adults in Florida admit to driving after drinking too much compared to the national average. Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs impairs perception, judgment, coordination, and attention—significantly increasing the risk of car accidents, serious injuries, and fatalities.

Reckless Driving

Under Florida Statutes § 316.192, reckless driving is defined as operating a motor vehicle with willful or wanton disregard for the safety of persons or property. It is a criminal offense in Florida and can result in serious consequences, including fines, jail time, license suspension, points on your driving record, and an increased risk of collisions. Common examples of reckless driving that can lead to car accidents include:

• Driving while impaired
• Street racing
• Speeding excessively
• Erratic or aggressive driving
• Ignoring traffic signals
• Passing illegally

Weather Conditions

Weather conditions can have a major impact on road safety and significantly increase the risk of car accidents in Lake Mary and throughout Seminole County. While Florida is known for its generally sunny and mild climate, it also experiences weather events that can create dangerous driving conditions. The following are common ways weather can contribute to accidents in the area:

• Rain – Reduces visibility and creates slick road surfaces, increasing the risk of hydroplaning and longer stopping distances.
• Strong winds – Can make it difficult to maintain lane control, especially for high-profile vehicles, and may cause debris to obstruct the roadway.
• Fog – Limits visibility and makes it harder for drivers to judge distances or spot other vehicles and obstacles in time to react.
• Sun glare – Temporarily blinds drivers, reducing visibility and reaction time—particularly during sunrise and sunset.

Road Hazards

Road hazards can contribute to car accidents by forcing sudden maneuvers, causing tire blowouts, reducing visibility, or diverting a driver’s attention. Despite ongoing efforts to maintain roads and infrastructure, a variety of hazards can still arise—putting drivers, passengers, pedestrians, and cyclists at risk. Common roadway hazards include:

• Potholes
• Uneven pavement
• Debris on the roadway
• Flooding and water accumulation
• Wildlife crossings
• Construction zones
• Lack of shoulder space
• Faded or unclear pavement markings
• Poor road design
• Faded or unclear pavement markings
• Lack of maintenance

If you’re involved in a car accident caused by a road hazard, it’s important to document the scene with photos or videos, report the incident to the police, and notify your insurance company to begin the claims process. Our experienced Lake Mary car accident lawyers are here to guide you through each step and help you pursue the compensation you deserve.

Vehicle Defects

Vehicle defects can result from design flaws, manufacturing errors, or poor maintenance. These defects can lead to serious accidents in Seminole County by compromising the safety and performance of the vehicle. Common ways vehicle defects can contribute to crashes include:

• Brake failures
• Tire blowouts
• Steering and suspension issues
• Inadequate maintenance
• Airbag malfunctions
• Faulty safety systems
• Electrical system failures
• Fuel system defects

If you were injured in a car accident caused by a vehicle defect, you may be entitled to compensation under product liability laws. These laws allow victims to hold manufacturers, distributors, or sellers accountable for defective vehicles or components that lead to accidents. You may pursue a civil lawsuit or file a claim against the responsible parties to seek financial compensation for your injuries, medical expenses, lost income, and other related losses.