I-95 Florida’s Deadliest Highway: Broward Law Firm Report Highlights Dangerous Driving Corridors

I-95 in Florida is notorious for heavy traffic, and unfortunately, a high number of accidents. A recent report by a Broward County law firm has brought renewed attention to just how dangerous this stretch of highway can be. The report highlights specific corridors with alarming rates of fatal crashes, raising concerns for drivers and prompting calls for increased awareness and safety measures. According to the Rosen Injury Law firm, I-95 topped the list with 51 fatal crashes along a stretch that runs from Hollywood Boulevard in Broward County to Northeast 125th Street in Miami-Dade County between 2019 and 2023. Another section of I-95, from West Oakland Park Boulevard north to Taft Street, recorded 40 deadly crashes — ranking second among the state’s most hazardous areas.

Why is I-95 in Florida So Dangerous?

Several factors contribute to the high accident rate on I-95 in Florida. Understanding these risks can help drivers make informed decisions and take necessary precautions.

High Traffic Volume: I-95 is a major transportation artery, and one of the busiest highways in the country. The Sunrise Boulevard to Davie Boulevard stretch in Fort Lauderdale serves over 100,000 more cars than the highway was meant to serve. The sheer volume of vehicles increases the likelihood of accidents. More than 312,000 cars pass through the busiest segment of I-95 every day.
Speeding: Speed is a major contributing factor in many I-95 accidents. The faster a car is moving, the longer it will take to stop. When you’re driving, seconds can mean the difference between an accident and a near-accident, and if you’re speeding, you have fewer seconds at your disposal.
Distracted Driving: Distracted driving is a significant problem on all roadways, and I-95 is no exception.
Drunk Driving: I-95 has a high rate of fatal accidents involving drunk drivers.
Aggressive Driving: The high-pressure environment of a busy highway can lead to aggressive driving behaviors, such as tailgating and frequent lane changes, increasing the risk of collisions.
Construction Zones: Construction zones are a common sight on I-95, and these areas can be particularly hazardous. Lane closures, detours, and the presence of construction workers and equipment can create confusion and increase the risk of accidents.
On-Ramps and Off-Ramps: Accidents frequently occur when drivers try to get on and get off of I-95. Failure to yield is a common issue in crashes where the driver trying to get on the interstate crowds in front of another vehicle. Drivers exiting I-95 may also cause accidents if they move across multiple lanes of traffic to reach an off-ramp.
Semi-Trucks: I-95 is a major thoroughfare for 18-wheelers. The combination of a significant number of semis with heavy passenger vehicles can be a dangerous mix.

Specific Areas of Concern

While the entire stretch of I-95 in Florida presents risks, some areas are particularly dangerous.

Broward County: Broward County consistently has some of the highest car accident numbers in Florida. In 2022, 40,837 crashes occurred across the county, resulting in 288 fatalities and 23,717 injuries.
Fort Lauderdale: Fort Lauderdale ranks as one of Florida’s most dangerous cities to drive in.
“Deadliest Mile”: A study found the deadliest highway mile in the United States is in South Florida: I-95 between the I-595 interchange and Marina Mile Boulevard. Between 2000 and 2019, 24 people died somewhere along the single I-95 mile, which is a busy stretch with off-ramps, ongoing construction and congestion.
Miami-Dade County: I-95 between exits 7 and 16 in Miami-Dade is considered one of the deadliest ten-mile stretches in the nation.

Staying Safe on I-95: Defensive Driving Tips

Given the inherent dangers of I-95, practicing defensive driving is crucial. Here are some tips to help you stay safe:

Pay Attention: Avoid distractions like cell phones, eating, and adjusting the radio.
Maintain a Safe Following Distance: Tailgating is a major cause of accidents. Keep a minimum of three to four seconds between your vehicle and the one in front of you. Increase your following distance in poor weather or heavy traffic.
Obey Speed Limits: Speed limits are in place for a reason.
Be Aware of Your Surroundings: Check your mirrors frequently and be aware of the vehicles around you.
Signal Your Intentions: Use your turn signals to indicate lane changes and turns.
Merge Safely: When entering I-95 from an on-ramp, accelerate to match the speed of traffic and merge smoothly.
Be Extra Cautious in Construction Zones: Slow down, pay attention to signs, and be prepared for sudden stops.
Avoid Aggressive Driving: Don’t tailgate, weave in and out of traffic, or engage in other aggressive behaviors.
Pull Over When Fatigued: If you feel tired, pull over to a safe location and rest.
Check your vehicle: Make sure your car is well maintained and in good working condition. Keeping your windows and side-view mirrors clean ensures your view of the road and other drivers won’t be obstructed or diminished while driving. Maintaining factory recommended tire pressure could help prevent blowouts and flat tires, which could cause you to lose control of your vehicle, so you should pay attention to the tire pressure light on your dashboard as well.

Legal Recourse After an Accident on I-95

If you or a loved one has been involved in an accident on I-95 due to someone else’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries and damages. It is essential to understand your legal rights and options.

Florida is a No-Fault State: Florida is a no-fault car insurance state, meaning that your Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage pays for your medical bills and lost wages, regardless of who caused the accident.
Filing a Personal Injury Lawsuit: You may be able to step outside of Florida’s no-fault system and file a personal injury lawsuit against the at-fault driver if your injuries are severe enough. Generally, you can only file a lawsuit if the accident left you with a permanent injury.
Statute of Limitations: In Florida, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim is two years from the date of the accident.
Damages You Can Recover: If you are successful in your personal injury claim, you may be able to recover damages for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other losses.

The Role of a Personal Injury Lawyer

Navigating the legal process after a car accident can be complex and overwhelming. A personal injury lawyer can help you protect your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve. An experienced car accident attorney can:

Investigate the accident and gather evidence to support your claim.
Negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf.
Ensure you receive the maximum compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
File a lawsuit if the insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement.

Ongoing Efforts to Improve Safety

The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) is aware of the safety issues on I-95 and has implemented various measures to improve safety, including:

Express Lanes: FDOT has built express lanes to help reduce congestion and improve traffic flow.
Safety Improvements: FDOT is undertaking safety improvement projects, such as replacing plastic poles separating express lanes with sturdier ones and building emergency pull-off areas.
Construction Zone Safety: FDOT is working to improve safety in construction zones by implementing stricter speed limits and increasing enforcement.

Conclusion

I-95 in Florida is undeniably a dangerous highway. The Broward Law Firm report serves as a stark reminder of the risks drivers face every day. By understanding the factors that contribute to accidents, practicing defensive driving techniques, and knowing your legal rights, you can help protect yourself and your loved ones on this heavily traveled roadway. If you or someone you know has been injured in an accident on I-95, seeking legal counsel from a qualified personal injury attorney is crucial to ensure your rights are protected and you receive the compensation you deserve.