Tampa Personal Injury Accident Statistics

Tampa Personal Injury Accident Statistics

Personal injury attorneys in Tampa help accident victims recover fair compensation from the at-fault parties.

Summary

• Tampa experiences a high number of personal injury accidents, including car, truck, motorcycle, bicycle, and pedestrian incidents.
• Hillsborough County alone recorded over 28,000 car accidents in 2021. There were 63,000 crashes across Tampa Bay, with 246 being fatal.
• Common reasons for car accidents include aggressive driving, driver fatigue, and vehicle defects like faulty brakes or tires.
• Motorcycle accidents in Hillsborough and Pinellas Counties average hundreds annually, with dangerous lane changes and impairment often cited as major causes.
• Truck crashes in Tampa are frequently linked to drug use, speeding, or inexperienced drivers, causing serious injuries and fatalities.
• Bicyclists and pedestrians face significant risks, with dozens of fatalities recorded each year, often due to distracted or impatient drivers.

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Accidents happen – and in an area with as many people as Tampa Bay, they happen a lot. There are far too many car accidents, truck accidents, bicycle and pedestrian accidents, and others. In most cases, these mishaps occur due to someone’s negligence.

The following accident statistics show the prevalence of several different types of accidents that happen in Tampa Bay, including motor vehicle accidents, as well as bicycle and pedestrian accidents. Our team also delves into some of the reasons they occur.

If you’ve suffered a severe injury in a car accident motorcycle crash, truck accident, or personal injury incident due to another’s carelessness, the attorneys with the Jones Law Group might be able to help you obtain a substantial amount of compensation.

Our experts will always be available to answer all of your questions, and we’ll keep you updated throughout your case. If you would like to schedule a free consultation to learn more about how we may be able to help, please contact us online or give us a call at (727) 571-1333.

Car Accident Statistics Reflect Risk Driving Habits in the Tampa Area

According to FLHSMV Crash Report statistics, there were more than 28,000 car accidents in Hillsborough County alone in 2021 and nearly 63,000 wrecks throughout the Tampa Bay Area.

That number accounts for about 16% of all accidents in the state. Hillsborough County is actually one of the most dangerous in the entire country when it comes to driving. There were 246 car crashes that involved a fatality in 2021, and they led to 263 fatalities.

There are lots of reasons car accidents happen. Here are just a few:

• Aggressive driving: Florida motorists cause car accidents by driving aggressively on a regular basis, as you already know all too well if you’ve been in our state for any length of time. Many of them are simply in too much of a rush. They’ll weave in and out of lanes, drive much too fast, tailgate, and exhibit several other types of reckless behavior.
• Fatigued driving: Getting behind the wheel when exhausted is one of the biggest mistakes a driver could ever make. Unfortunately, people are busier than ever, trying to juggle their work and home lives. When they decide to drive while fatigued, they simply can’t react to any sudden changes in the road.
• Defective parts: Accidents can occur that are beyond the control of the driver. If a defectively manufactured tire blows out, or negligently manufactured brakes fail, the results can be catastrophic.

Car accidents are the top cause of concussions, among other types of back and brain injuries.

Motorcycle Accident Statistics Spell Danger for Tampa Riders

Riding a motorcycle can be a dangerous activity in both Hillsborough and Pinellas Counties.

Statistics of motorcycle accidents by county show that from 2017-2021, there were an average of 693 motorcycle accidents, 39 fatalities, and nearly 150 severe injuries in Hillsborough County.

Pinellas County saw an average of 529 motorcycle wrecks during that time, resulting in an average of 26 deaths and about 120 serious injuries.

Some of the main causes of motorcycle accidents include the following:

• Dangerous lane changes. Motorcyclists are often hit by car and truck drivers who fail to check their blind spots before moving into a different lane.
• “Dooring”. This is where a rider slams into the door of a passenger car. The driver doesn’t check their rear-view mirror before opening their door, often leading to horrible injuries.
• Impairment. Motorcyclists can also take the blame for accidents, especially when they’re riding under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

Truck Accident Statistics Record High Injury Rates in Tampa

From jackknifes to lost loads to underride truck accidents, Hillsborough and Pinellas Counties also see their fair share of truck accidents. There were 3,069 crashes involving a commercial vehicle in 2019, resulting in 22 deaths and 940 injuries. In Pinellas, there were 1,413 accidents, two deaths, and 365 injuries.

Truck drivers are notorious for violating not only state and federal regulations but traffic laws as well, causing terrible accidents in the process. Here are just a few examples.

• Drug use: You might be surprised to learn that according to accident statistics, this is one of the most common causes of truck accidents in Tampa and across the U.S. Many wrecks take place because the truck driver was on some sort of illegal or prescription drug. They do this to stay awake to meet a deadline – and trucking deadlines are oftentimes not only unreasonable but also dangerous.
• Speeding: An 80,000-pound commercial truck is hard enough to keep on the road even when it’s going the speed limit. When it’s going too fast, and something happens to cause the driver to lose control, the results can be tragic.
• Inexperience: Trucking companies will often hire unqualified people because of a shortage of experienced drivers. They might not be as familiar with their routes as they should be and might try to make a sudden move to make an exit. When they don’t make it, the truck can easily roll over.

Bicycle and Pedestrian Accident Statistics Show the Cost of Tampa Drivers’ Recklessness

As beautiful as the Tampa Bay region is, it’s also a very dangerous place to ride a bike – or even take a walk. There are 95 pedestrians killed in Hillsborough and Pinellas Counties alone in 2019. There were 25 fatalities in Polk County, 23 in Pasco County, and 10 in Manatee County.

Tampa accident statistics show that the number of deaths in Hillsborough (59) was nearly double the 32 pedestrians in 2013. It’s no surprise that Florida ranks poorly in pedestrian safety.

But it’s just about as dangerous for bicycle riders. There were 160 people who lost their lives in Florida in 2019 – 45 of those fatalities occurred in the Bay Area. Eleven deaths occurred in Hillsborough County.

Causes of Bicycle and Pedestrian Accidents in Tampa

Tampa accident statistics show negligent motorists are typically to blame for causing both Florida bicycle accidents as well as pedestrian accidents. These are just some of the many reasons why.

• Distracted drivers: Some people just can’t help themselves – they have to look at their texts and emails on their smartphone, even when they’re behind the wheel of a car. This leads to a lot of crashes caused by drivers on the phone. Even a momentary lack of focus on the road can have terrible consequences, including hitting bicyclists and pedestrians.
• Running stop signs: Impatient, distracted, and impaired motorists will oftentimes not realize a stop sign is coming up. If they do that when a bicyclist or pedestrian is trying to cross an intersection, that can prove deadly.
• Heavy rain: It’s hard enough to see other vehicles when you’re trying to drive in the middle of a Florida thunderstorm. It’s almost impossible to see someone walking or riding a bike.

Important Steps to Take After a Tampa Personal Injury Accident

Taking swift and deliberate action following a personal injury accident is crucial to protecting your rights. By acting thoughtfully, you can strengthen your case and improve your chances of receiving fair compensation.

• Seek medical attention immediately. Even if your injuries seem minor, consult a healthcare professional to identify potential issues and document your condition.
• Report the accident. Notify the appropriate authorities, whether it’s the police or the property owner, and make sure an accurate report is filed.
• Gather evidence at the scene. Take photos or videos of the accident site, your injuries, and any relevant details like skid marks, damaged property, or hazardous conditions.
• Collect contact information. Obtain names, phone numbers, and insurance details from everyone involved, including witnesses.
• Keep detailed records. Save medical bills, accident reports, repair estimates, and any other documentation related to your claim.
• Avoid discussing the case. Limit conversations about the accident and avoid posting anything on social media that could be used against you.
• Consult an FL personal injury attorney. Choose a personal injury attorney near you to manage your claim. A legal expert can guide you, handle negotiations, and ensure your rights are upheld throughout the process.

Seek a Settlement With the Help of Jones Law Group Tampa Personal Injury Lawyers

Having skilled and experienced personal injury lawyers on your side can significantly improve your chances of securing fair compensation for your injuries and losses.

Expertise in Local Laws

Jones Law Group’s attorneys are well-versed in Tampa’s specific laws and regulations, ensuring your case is handled in compliance with local requirements. Our deep knowledge helps us craft strong strategies tailored to your situation.

Strong Negotiation Skills

Insurance companies often try to minimize or deny payouts, but our Tampa personal injury lawyers know how to negotiate effectively on your behalf. We talk to insurance companies, prioritize your interests, and push for the maximum compensation you deserve.

Personalized Attention

At Jones Law Group, every client receives customized support. We understand that no two cases are the same, and will take the time to understand your needs, address your concerns, and build a case tailored to your unique circumstances.

Comprehensive Case Management

With Jones Law Group, you don’t need to worry about navigating the complexities of legal paperwork, deadlines, or evidence gathering. Our team takes care of every detail, so you can focus on recovery while they focus on winning your case.

Contact Jones Law Group Today for Assistance With a Tampa Personal Injury Claim

If you’ve suffered an injury due to one of the accidents listed above, please get in touch with a Jones Law Group personal injury attorney as soon as you can. You can also check out our guide on what to ask a personal injury lawyer before you hire them so you can be prepared for your first consultation.

Schedule a free review of your case by calling (727) 571-1333 or using our online contact form.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How much time do I have to file a personal injury claim in Tampa, FL?

In Tampa, you typically have two years from the date of the injury to file a personal injury claim, according to Florida’s statute of limitations. Failing to meet this deadline can result in losing your right to compensation.

Who should pay for my personal injury damages in Tampa?

The party responsible for causing the accident or their insurance company usually pays for your damages. This can include individuals, businesses, or other entities found at fault.

Tampa accident statistics show that often, human error causes car accidents, bicycle crashes, truck collisions, and other types of Tampa personal injury accidents. 

Should I hire a personal injury lawyer for minor accidents?

Yes, even minor accidents can result in hidden injuries or disputes over compensation. A Tampa personal injury lawyer can help protect your rights and ensure you receive what you’re owed.

What damages can I recover in a Tampa personal injury claim?

You may recover compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, property damage, and other losses resulting from the accident.