Navigating Downtown Sarasota's Busy Streets
Downtown Sarasota is a bustling area with plenty of attractions, restaurants, and shops. However, with the recent increase in property development projects, the streets have become more congested than ever before. As a result, car accidents have become more frequent in certain areas of downtown Sarasota. In this blog post, we will discuss where these accidents happen most frequently and provide tips on how to avoid them.
Where Do Car Accidents Happen Most Frequently?
According to recent reports from the Sarasota Police Department and Florida Highway Patrol, car accidents tend to occur most frequently at the following locations:
University Parkway and Cattlemen Road
This area is known for its heavy traffic flow and high speeds, which can make it difficult for drivers to navigate safely. Accidents occur here quite often, with many resulting in serious injuries or fatalities. To avoid these types of accidents, local drivers are encouraged to take alternate routes such as Fruitville Road or Bee Ridge Road. These roads may be slightly longer in distance but are much safer options for those looking to avoid the dangers of University Parkway and Cattlemen Road.
17th Street East near Gun Club Road
This area is known for its heavy traffic flow, particularly during peak hours, which can make it difficult for drivers to navigate safely. Accidents occur here quite often, with many resulting in serious injuries or fatalities. Local drivers are encouraged to take alternate routes such as Honore Avenue or Lockwood Ridge Road to avoid auto accidents. These roads may add a few extra minutes to your commute but are much safer options for those looking to avoid the dangers of 17th Street East near Gun Club Road.
Main Street and Orange Avenue
Main Street and Orange Avenue in downtown Sarasota, Florida have been a hotspot for car accidents in recent times. The accidents that occur on this intersection range from minor fender benders to fatal crashes. One of the main reasons for these frequent accidents is the high volume of traffic that passes through this intersection on a daily basis. Additionally, drivers often speed or run red lights, which increases the likelihood of an accident occurring. Another contributing factor is distracted driving, as many drivers are often busy texting or talking on their phones while driving. It is important for drivers to exercise caution when driving through this intersection and to obey traffic laws to prevent further accidents from occurring.
In addition to these intersections, there are also several stretches of road that have seen a high number of accidents. One such area is Tamiami Trail between Stickney Point Road and Gulf Gate Drive. This section of road has narrow lanes and heavy traffic, which can make it difficult for drivers to navigate safely.
What Time of Day Do These Accidents Occur?
Car accidents can happen at any time of day or night in downtown Sarasota. However, statistics show that rush hour traffic tends to be the most dangerous time for drivers. Rush hour typically occurs between 7:00 am - 9:00 am and 4:00 pm - 6:00 pm on weekdays. During these times, it's important to stay alert and focused on the road.
Tips for Avoiding Car Accidents in Downtown Sarasota
Stay Alert: Pay attention to your surroundings at all times while driving in downtown Sarasota. Keep an eye out for pedestrians crossing the street or other drivers making sudden lane changes.
Follow Traffic Laws: Obey all traffic laws including speed limits, stop signs, and red lights.
Avoid Distracted Driving: Avoid using your phone or other electronic devices while driving as they can distract you from the road.
Plan Ahead: If possible, plan your route ahead of time to avoid congested areas during peak traffic hours.
Be Patient: Don't rush or drive aggressively as it can lead to accidents.
By following these tips and being cautious while driving through downtown Sarasota's busy streets, you can help prevent car accidents from happening.
Here are three interesting car accident statistics about Sarasota, Florida:
In 2019, there were 10 fatal car accidents in Sarasota, resulting in 16 vehicles involved in those accidents. (Source: https://www.city-data.com/accidents/acc-Sarasota-Florida.html)
Nearly one-third of all crash deaths in Sarasota involve speeding. (Source: https://www.livestories.com/statistics/florida/sarasota-county-car-accident-deaths-mortality)
While fatal traffic crashes are down compared to two and three years ago, overall traffic accidents are on the rise in Sarasota County. (Source: https://www.theinjurylawyers.com/sarasota-car-accident-statistics/)
To stay safe on the roads in Sarasota, it's important to be aware of these problem areas and take extra precautions when driving through them. Always obey traffic signals, follow the speed limit, and stay alert for other drivers who may not be paying attention.
What to Do After a Car Accident in Sarasota?
Getting into a car accident can be a traumatic experience, but it's important to stay calm and take the necessary steps to ensure your safety and protect your legal rights. Here are some step-by-step directions on what to do if you get in an accident in downtown Sarasota or any other place in Sarasota:
Check for injuries: The first thing you should do is check yourself and others involved in the accident for injuries. If anyone is seriously injured, call 911 immediately.
Move to a safe location: If possible, move your vehicle off the road to avoid causing further accidents or traffic congestion.
Call the police: Even if there are no serious injuries, it's important to call the police and report the accident. They will create an official report that can be used as evidence later on.
Exchange information: Exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver(s) involved in the accident. Be sure to get their name, phone number, address, license plate number, insurance company name and policy number.
Document the scene: Take pictures of any damage done to your vehicle and other vehicles involved in the accident. Also take pictures of any visible injuries you or others may have sustained.
Contact your insurance company: Notify your insurance company about the accident as soon as possible.
Hire an experienced attorney: Dealing with insurance companies after an accident can be overwhelming and stressful.
If you've been in a car accident, it's important to consider hiring an accident attorney
Not only can they help you navigate the legal process, but statistics show that having a lawyer on your side can significantly increase your chances of receiving fair compensation for your injuries and damages.
According to a study by the Insurance Research Council, individuals who hire an attorney for their car accident case receive settlements that are 3.5 times higher than those who do not have legal representation. This is because lawyers have the experience and knowledge necessary to negotiate with insurance companies and fight for their clients' rights.
On the other hand, trying to handle a car accident case on your own can be risky. Without legal expertise, you may not know how much compensation you are entitled to or how to properly document your damages. This can lead to accepting a settlement offer that is far less than what you deserve.
In addition, if the other party involved in the accident has hired an attorney, it's even more important for you to do so as well. A skilled lawyer on the opposing side can easily take advantage of someone who is unrepresented and negotiate a settlement that is not in their best interest.
Overall, hiring an accident attorney is a smart decision if you want to ensure that your rights are protected and that you receive fair compensation for your injuries and damages.
Why Hiring The Sheldrick Law Firm is a Great Choice After Being Hurt and Injured in an Automobile Accident.
If you've been hurt and injured in an automobile accident, hiring Kayla Sheldrick from The Sheldrick Law Firm is a great choice because she deals with insurance companies after accidents just like yours. Ms.Sheldrick will work tirelessly on your behalf to ensure that you receive maximum compensation for your injuries while allowing you to focus on recovering from your injuries without worrying about dealing with insurance companies.