Miami Car Crash Statistics 2013-2023: Risks, Crash Reasons, and How to Protect Yourself

Updated
August 30, 2023
Daniel Hentschel

Partner

With experience in the areas of civil litigation and government investigations, Daniel represents individuals and corporate entities in complex litigation disputes in both federal and state court.

Table Of Contents

Miami is a bustling city with beautiful beaches, vibrant culture, and a thriving economy. Unfortunately, it's also known for having some of the highest car accident rates in the country. In fact, Miami-Dade County has one of the highest rates of fatal car crashes in Florida. The statistics are alarming, and it's important for drivers and pedestrians alike to be aware of the risks and take steps to stay safe on the road.

As a law firm specializing in personal injury cases, we understand the devastating effects a car accident can have on individuals and families. That's why we're sharing this article about Miami car accident statistics and what to do if you find yourself in a car accident. So, whether you're a driver, pedestrian, or just a concerned citizen, we encourage you to keep reading and learn more about the risks of car accidents in Miami and what you can do to protect yourself and your loved ones.

The Dangers of Miami Road Traffic

Car accidents are one of the most significant causes of injury and death in Miami and around the world. When two vehicles collide, the force of impact can result in severe injuries, such as broken bones, head trauma, spinal cord injuries, or even death. Even in accidents that do not result in serious injuries or fatalities, victims may still experience pain and suffering, lost wages, and other damages.

The Dangers of Miami Road Traffic

Despite advances in technology and improvements in car safety features, car accidents continue to be a significant problem in Miami and other cities around the world. While newer cars may have more advanced safety features, such as automatic emergency braking and lane departure warning systems, these features are not foolproof and can still fail in certain situations. This is why the rates of traumatic and fatal car accidents are still high.

Miami Car Crash Statistics for Years 2013-2023

Miami's car accident statistics over the last 10 years paint a sobering picture of the dangers of the city's roads. Every year, thousands of accidents occur, resulting in injuries, fatalities, and significant property damage. To illustrate the scope of the problem, we've compiled data from official sources that show how many car accidents happened in Miami over the past decade.

Year Total Crashes Change Year-Over-Year
2013 24,534 +2.06%
2014 32,862 +33.94%
2015 37,444 +13.94%
2016 38,077 +1.69%
2017 34,835 -8.51%
2018 31,198 -10.44%
2019 32,127 +2.97%
2020 22,507 -29.94%
2021 29,824 +32.51%
2022 30,550 +2.43%
2023 (as of February 28, 2023) 3,317

Please note that the change year-over-year is based on the previous year's total crashes. Also, as the data for 2023 is only for the first two months, the change year-over-year for 2023 is not applicable. All data is taken from the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV). Source: signal4analytics.com

Looking at the statistics above, it's clear that car accidents in Miami are a persistent and significant problem. While there have been fluctuations in the number of crashes from year to year, the overall trend shows a concerning increase in recent years. Furthermore, the COVID-19 pandemic had a significant impact on car accident rates, as evidenced by the sharp drop in total crashes in 2020.

Miami Car Crashes Leading to Serious Injury (2013-2023)

Unfortunately, car accidents in Miami don't just result in property damage; they also often cause serious injuries. Injuries sustained in car accidents can range from minor cuts and bruises to severe brain and spinal cord injuries, and everything in between. These injuries can be life-changing and result in significant medical bills and lost income. Here are stats on Miami car accidents resulting in serious injuries from official sources over the past decade:

Miami Car Crashes Leading to Serious Injury (2013-2023)
Year Total Injuries Change Year-Over-Year
2013 472 +22.28%
2014 443 -6.14%
2015 550 +24.15%
2016 512 -6.9%
2017 377 -26.36%
2018 283 -24.93%
2019 322 +13.78%
2020 244 -24.22%
2021 314 +28.68%
2022 256 -18.47%
2023 (as of February 28, 2023) 20

Please note that the change year-over-year is based on the previous year's total injuries. Also, as the data for 2023 is only for the first two months, the change year-over-year for 2023 is not applicable.

As you can see, car accidents in Miami resulting in serious injuries are unfortunately quite common. While there have been fluctuations in the number of injuries from year to year, the overall trend shows a concerning increase in recent years, with a significant spike in 2021.

Fatal Car Crashes in Miami (2013-2023)

Tragically, car accidents in Miami don't just result in injuries; they also often lead to fatalities. Losing a loved one in a car accident is an unimaginable tragedy, and unfortunately, it's a reality for many families in Miami.

To shed light on this sobering issue, we've compiled data on fatal crashes in Miami from official sources over the past decade. Here’s an overview of the most notable statistics and trends related to fatal car crashes in Miami:

Year Total Fatal Car Crashes Change Year-Over-Year
2013 53 +29.26%
2014 51 -3.77%
2015 92 +80.39%
2016 78 -15.21%
2017 55 -29.49%
2018 64 +16.36%
2019 63 -1.56%
2020 71 +12.7%
2021 77 +8.45%
2022 78 +1.3%
2023 (as of February 28, 2023) 5

Please note that the change year-over-year is based on the previous year's total fatal car crashes. Also, as the data for 2023 is only for the first two months, the change year-over-year for 2023 is not applicable.

Most Common Reasons for Miami Car Accidents

Car accidents can happen for a variety of reasons, and unfortunately, they are all too common in Miami. Understanding the most common causes of traffic accidents can help drivers stay safe on the road and avoid potentially dangerous situations. In this section, we'll examine some of the most common reasons for car accidents in Miami and what drivers can do to prevent them.

Most car accidents in Miami are caused by the following:

Distracted Driving

One of the leading causes of car accidents is distracted driving. This can include anything from using a phone while driving to eating or applying makeup behind the wheel. To prevent accidents, it's important to stay focused on the road and avoid any distractions.

Speeding

Driving at an excessive speed is a recipe for disaster. Speeding reduces the amount of time drivers have to react to hazards on the road, increasing the risk of a crash. To stay safe, always obey the speed limit and adjust your speed according to the conditions.

Drunk Driving

Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol is a serious offense and can lead to devastating accidents. If you plan on drinking, always have a designated driver or use a ride-sharing service to get home safely.

Reckless Driving

Reckless driving includes behaviors such as weaving in and out of traffic, tailgating, and failing to yield the right of way. These actions can lead to accidents and should be avoided at all costs.

Poor Weather Conditions

Miami is no stranger to poor weather conditions, including heavy rain and tropical storms. To stay safe in adverse weather, slow down and avoid sudden movements while driving.

What to Do After a Car Accident?

Being involved in a car accident can be a frightening and stressful experience. In the aftermath of an accident, it's important to take certain steps to protect yourself and your legal rights. Here is a checklist outlining the essential steps you should take after a car accident in Miami. By following this checklist, you can help ensure that you stay safe and protect your legal rights:

What to Do After a Car Accident

1. Check yourself and passengers for injury

The first step after a car accident is to check yourself and any passengers for injuries. If anyone is injured, call for medical help immediately.

2. Move out of the road

If possible, move your vehicle out of the road to a safe location to avoid causing further accidents or traffic.

3. Call 911

Even if there are no serious injuries, it's important to call 911 to report the accident and request police assistance.

4. Stay calm and wait

After a car accident, it's natural to feel shaken and upset. Try to stay calm and wait for help to arrive.

5. Exchange your information with the other driver

Exchange information with the other driver, including names, phone numbers, and insurance information.

6. Take pictures of the scene

If possible, take pictures of the accident scene, including any damage to vehicles and any visible injuries.

7. Call Hentschel x Lanza law firm

If you've been injured in a car accident in Miami, our experienced personal injury attorneys can help you recover the compensation you deserve. Call us as soon as possible for a free consultation.

8. Call your insurance provider company

Contact your insurance provider as soon as possible to report the accident and initiate the claims process.

9. Call your doctor

Even if you don't feel injured immediately after the accident, it's important to see a doctor to get checked out as soon as possible. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent but can become more serious over time.

How Personal Injury Lawyer Can Help You?

If you've been injured in a car accident in Miami, it can be challenging to navigate the legal process and protect your legal rights without the help of a personal injury lawyer. An experienced lawyer can provide crucial assistance, including helping you understand your options, negotiating with insurance companies, and fighting for the compensation you deserve for your injuries and damages. They can also provide much-needed support and guidance throughout the process, helping to reduce the stress and anxiety of dealing with a car accident. If you've been injured in a car accident, consider contacting a personal injury lawyer to help you get the compensation you need to move forward.

Conclusion

Car accidents are a significant problem in Miami, and the statistics paint a stark picture of the risks involved. However, by understanding the most common causes of car accidents, taking precautions to stay safe on the road, and knowing what to do in the aftermath of an accident, drivers can help protect themselves and others on the road.

If you've been injured in a car accident in Miami, it's crucial to seek the help of an experienced personal injury lawyer to protect your legal rights and fight for the compensation you deserve. At Hentschel x Lanza law firm, we specialize in helping accident victims recover the compensation they need to move forward. Contact us today for a free consultation and let us fight for your rights.

Remember, the aftermath of a car accident can be overwhelming and stressful, but you don't have to face it alone. With the help of a skilled personal injury lawyer, you can get the support you need to protect your legal rights and move forward with confidence. Don't wait – contact us today to learn how we can help you.

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