Each year, SmartAsset.com ranks each state by the quality and safety of its drivers. This year, the study ranked Florida as having the worst drivers in the country.
The study bases its rankings on the total number of uninsured drivers, crash deaths, arrests for driving under the influence (DUI) and Google searches for information on traffic tickets. The high number of Google searches Floridians conducted is what put the state over the edge. People here search for terms like “speeding tickets” and “traffic tickets” far more than those in other states.
In addition, Florida has just 76.2 percent of its drivers insured. This puts it as second-worst in the nation, just ahead of the last-placed Mississippi. Florida also had approximately 4.45 arrests on DUI charges for every 1,000 drivers, a number far below the worst state in that category. That “honor” goes to Vermont, which had 50.86 DUI arrests for every 1,000 drivers.
Finally, there is approximately one death in an auto accident for every 10,000 drivers in Florida.
Getting help after an auto accident
Ultimately, there is always some element of subjectivity in these types of studies, as what makes for the “worst” drivers can vary depending on each person’s own idea of the definition. Regardless, if you or someone close to you has been injured in a car accident, it’s important to call the police and get a written record of the crash. You should also speak with an attorney to make sure you get treated fairly when it comes to securing compensation for your injuries or property damage.
For further guidance, consult a trusted Bradenton personal injury lawyer at Goldman, Babboni, Fernandez, Murphy & Walsh.