Each year, there are hundreds of thousands of auto accidents in Florida. These accidents lead to hundreds of thousands of injuries, and they kill thousands of drivers, passengers, bicyclists and pedestrians.
Unfortunately, auto accident rates in Florida have been on the rise. According to Florida’s Integrated Report Exchange System (FIRES), the number of accidents increased every year from 2011 to 2015. In fact, since 2011, the number of accidents has increased by nearly 50 percent. Based upon the most-recent figures, 2016 is on pace to be a record year.
Comparing Okaloosa County to the Rest of Florida
With a population of less than 200,000, Okaloosa is among Florida’s smaller counties, and this is borne out in FIRES’ auto accident data. Out of nearly 350,000 accidents in Florida so far this year, less than 3,000 have occurred in Okaloosa County. Of course, that still means that there are more than 10 accidents in the county every day, and FIRES’ data indicate that there have been 18 traffic-related fatalities in Okaloosa County as of the end of November.
These figures also mean that Okaloosa County’s accident rates are roughly on par with the rest of Florida. Okaloosa County houses about 0.01 percent of Florida’s residents, and over the last two years it has accounted for approximately 0.01 percent of Florida’s car accidents. Statewide, 0.006 percent of accidents are fatal – a figure that is consistent with the fatality rate in Okaloosa County.
Historical Accident Data for Okaloosa County
The following statistics reflect FIRES’ auto accident data for Okaloosa County from 2011 through 2016:
- Highest Number of Accidents: 3,362 in 2015
- Lowest Number of Accidents: 2124 in 2011
- Average Number of Accidents: 2809
- Average Number of Accidents Resulting in Injury: 1242
- Average Number of Accidents Resulting in Death: 24
- Average Number of Accidents Involving Commercial Vehicles: 177
Like the rest of Florida, Okaloosa County has seen a consistent rise in accident rates since 2011. Injury and fatality rates in the county have increased proportionally, as has the rate of accidents involving commercial vehicles.
Injured in an Accident? What to Do
If you have been injured in an accident in Okaloosa County, it is important that you seek medical attention as soon as possible. You also need to discuss your rights with an attorney. Even seemingly-minor accidents can cause severe injuries, and it will be important for you to seek just compensation for your medical bills, the time you miss from work, and your other losses.
While auto accident cases occasionally go to court, most cases are resolved through settlements with the insurance companies well before trial. By working with an experienced attorney, you can avoid settling for too little too soon, and ensure that you will have the money you need in the months and years to come.
Powell, Powell & Powell, P.A. | Car Accident Lawyers in Fort Walton, FL
At Powell, Powell & Powell, P.A., we provide experienced legal representation for accident victims and their families in Okaloosa County and throughout the Florida Panhandle. To find out if you have a claim for compensation, call (850) 682-2757 or contact us online for a free consultation today.