We can help if you’ve been injured
With the surge in development in downtown West Palm Beach, traffic congestion has significantly increased, raising concerns about the heightened risk of traffic accidents.
According to a new West Palm Beach traffic study, daily peak seasonal traffic has seen a dramatic uptick of almost 22 percent since 2017, with a 6 percent rise noted just in the last year. Ongoing development supported by the city’s decision to waive certain traffic mitigation requirements for some new construction is fueling a noticeable increase in daily commuters, visitors, and workers flooding into West Palm Beach, contributing to the growing traffic woes.
Although it’s difficult to distinguish between the national hike in crash rates and how construction factors into West Palm Beach accidents, car crashes have risen significantly in the area since 2017, as well. Over five years, the number of fatal crashes reported in Palm Beach County has increased by more than 30 percent – from about 160 deadly crashes in 2017 to 215 in 2022.
Traffic changes and crashes in West Palm Beach
According to the survey commissioned by the city, West Palm Beach welcomes approximately 38,400 trips daily via its five primary entry points, including the four causeways and Ocean Blvd. Notably, on weekdays, an average of almost 11,250 trips are directed toward key West Palm Beach attractions such as beaches, commercial areas, and golf courses, a number that surges to over 15,800 on weekends. However, the influx of visitors and the ongoing construction projects have led to parking challenges, even in areas where capacity isn’t fully reached, compounding the traffic situation.
Additionally, an analysis of 18 restaurants offering valet parking revealed that instead of alleviating congestion, long queues and operational inefficiencies have further exacerbated traffic problems. Residents and visitors alike are feeling the strain, which, unfortunately, translates into a higher potential for road accidents.
West Palm Beach already grapples with around 20 fatal accidents per year, including pedestrian fatalities, with key locations like SR 704, Jog Rd, and I-95 being among the most hazardous. In a broader context, Palm Beach County ranks as one of Florida’s most dangerous territories for car accidents, trailing only behind Miami-Dade and Broward counties in terms of fatal and serious collisions.
Steps to take after an accident
Being involved in an accident can be a terrifying and confusing experience. However, knowing the steps to take afterward can significantly influence the outcomes, especially if you’re considering legal action:
- Move to Safety: Ensure your safety and that of any passengers. Move to a safe location if possible.
- Call 911: Report the accident to the police, and if there are any injuries, request medical assistance.
- Document the Scene: Take photos of the accident site, vehicles, and any visible injuries. These could be crucial for your case.
- Exchange Information: Get contact and insurance details from the other driver(s) involved but avoid discussing fault.
- Seek Medical Attention: Even if you feel fine, some injuries may not be immediately apparent. Visit a doctor as soon as possible.
- Notify Your Insurance: Inform your insurance company about the accident, but be wary of making official statements before speaking with a lawyer.
- Consult a Lawyer: Engaging a seasoned car accident lawyer, especially in areas with high accident rates like West Palm Beach, can vastly improve your chances of receiving fair compensation.
The increased traffic in West Palm Beach inevitably raises accident risks. If you are injured in a traffic-related incident, it’s crucial to take the right steps to protect your health and rights.
Contact an experienced car accident lawyer today
After a car accident, handling legal and insurance issues is overwhelming. Mr. Shomo and his dedicated legal team in Palm Beach Gardens offer their assistance without promising outcomes or claiming expertise. We have worked on many cases, aiming to help clients understand their options and move forward.
Our case results include a $3,335,000 settlement for a motor vehicle/pedestrian crash involving orthopedic, vascular, and tissue crush injuries, as well as a traumatic brain injury that required multiple surgeries.
If you were injured in a car crash, The Law Offices of Casey D. Shomo, P.A. provides a free consultation to discuss your case.
Contact us to find out more about what we can do for you.