Michael Babboni Personal Injury

Summer will be here before we know it, and with it may also come a higher risk of becoming a victim of personal injury in St Pete, Florida. The temperatures in Florida are typically warm, but the summer months can get into the nineties.

With the warmer weather, we also see an uptick in the number of tourists that visit the sunshine state. This can all be a recipe for disaster, as accidents can happen in a blink of an eye.

Here are some of the more common personal injuries you may encounter when living or visiting St Pete, Florida, this summer.

Boating Accidents

Last summer, St. Petersburg Fire Rescue reported that two people were injured, and one was critically injured in a boat crash. First responders on the scene said that the boat collided with rocks and a seawall near 4^th Avenue North and Sunset Drive North.

According to boating accident statistics in 2023, there has been an increase in recreational boating and related accidents. Over 5,000 boating accidents occur annually in the US, causing more than $62.5 million in damages.

How to Avoid These Accidents

To avoid a Florida boating accident this summer, never operate a boat while under the influence of drugs or alcohol, eliminate all distractions, maintain a safe speed, and make sure everyone on the boat understands proper safety procedures.

Bicycle Accidents

With great weather comes a lot of outdoor time, including family bike rides. According to the Crash Dashboard, in 2021, Florida had 5,952 bicycle collisions that caused 5,574 injuries and 164 deaths. Florida law enforcement determined that a motorist was responsible for 140 of those fatal accidents.

How to Avoid These Accidents

To avoid bicycle accidents and stay safe on the roadways as a bicyclist or pedestrian, you must act responsibly. Avoid drinking alcohol and wear reflective gear when riding in the evening or at night. Always pay attention to your surroundings and follow all road signs and signals.

Car Accidents

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, drivers experience a much higher accident risk during the summer months of June through August in Florida. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration also states that auto accidents cause almost 30 percent more deaths in the summer compared to the winter.

How to Avoid These Accidents

Car accidents often rise during the summer months because teen drivers are not in school, there is an influx of visitors, and more people take road trips during this time. Roadwork is another reason, as the summer months in Florida are often set aside to repair roadways.

To stay safe when driving in Florida over the summer, pay attention to your surroundings, follow all road rules and laws, and eliminate all distractions. It may also help to avoid areas with higher congestion during certain times of the day.

Motorcycle Accidents

If you own a motorcycle, the summer is probably one of your favorite times to ride. However, your risk of injuries and accidents may increase during the summer. With more vehicles on the roadways during this time and motorcycles being smaller than other vehicles, it can be harder to see them and respond in time.

Also, during June and beyond, Florida sees a lot of rain as it enters hurricane season, which can make for slippery roads and treacherous conditions. The number of motorcycle fatalities in Florida has doubled over the past two decades, and motorcyclists only account for less than 1% of all vehicle miles traveled on Florida’s roadways.

How to Avoid These Accidents

When riding your motorcycle through St Pete during the summer, make sure you know where you’re going, what streets you’re riding on, when to stay off the roads and avoid riding during rainy conditions.

As you can see, summer accidents are common on Florida roadways, but there are steps you can take to ensure your continued safety.