What City in Florida Has the Most Car Accidents?

Miami is the most accident-prone city in Florida. With its dense population, bustling tourism industry, and complex roadways, Miami consistently records the highest number of car accidents in the state.

Let's take a closer look at accident statistics, contributing factors, and what to do if you find yourself in a crash.

Why Does Miami Have So Many Car Accidents?

Several factors contribute to Miami's high accident rate:

• Heavy Traffic Congestion: Miami is one of the most congested cities in the U.S., with traffic bottlenecks and frequent stop-and-go conditions leading to rear-end collisions and road rage incidents.
• Tourists and Unfamiliar Drivers: The city attracts millions of visitors each year, many of whom rent cars and drive unfamiliar roads, increasing the likelihood of accidents.
• Aggressive Driving and Road Rage: Miami drivers are known for aggressive behaviors, including tailgating, speeding, and sudden lane changes, all of which increase accident risks.
• Distracted Driving: Texting, GPS use, and other distractions are major contributors to accidents in Miami.
• Drunk Driving Incidents: Miami’s vibrant nightlife and party scene lead to a high number of DUI-related crashes.
• Weather Conditions: Sudden heavy rains and tropical storms can create hazardous driving conditions, leading to hydroplaning and multi-car pileups.

Florida's Car Accident Statistics

Florida is known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant cities, and year-round warm weather. However, it is also notorious for its high number of car accidents. With millions of residents and tourists on the road daily, Florida consistently ranks among the top states for car accidents in the United States. 

According to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV), there were over 400,000 reported crashes in the state in recent years. These accidents resulted in thousands of fatalities and injuries, making road safety a major concern for residents and visitors alike.

The cities with the most car accidents are typically those with the highest populations and busiest roadways. Florida's largest metropolitan areas, including Miami, Tampa, Orlando, and Jacksonville, frequently report the highest number of crashes. However, certain factors make some cities more accident-prone than others.

Other Florida Cities With High Accident Rates

While Miami tops the list, other Florida cities also report a significant number of crashes.

Tampa

Tampa has one of the highest accident rates in Florida due to its mix of urban and suburban roadways, along with high-speed traffic on highways such as I-275 and I-4. The city’s numerous intersections and frequent lane merges contribute to a high rate of fender-benders and serious crashes.

Orlando

As a top tourist destination with attractions like Walt Disney World and Universal Studios, Orlando sees a high number of rental car accidents. I-4, which runs through the city, has been labeled one of the most dangerous highways in the country due to the volume of crashes.

Jacksonville

The largest city in Florida by area, Jacksonville has a widespread road network with many high-speed highways. I-95 and I-10 see frequent accidents due to high-speed merging and heavy trucking traffic.

Fort Lauderdale

Like Miami, Fort Lauderdale has a high number of traffic accidents due to congestion, tourism, and aggressive driving. Its proximity to Miami and its role as a major cruise port also contribute to heavy road use and accident risks.

How to Stay Safe on Florida Roads

With Florida’s high accident rates, drivers must take extra precautions to stay safe on the road. Here are some essential tips:

• Avoid Distracted Driving: Keep your focus on the road, avoid texting, and minimize GPS or other distractions.
• Obey Speed Limits: Speeding is a major cause of accidents, especially on highways and urban roads.
• Drive Defensively: Anticipate the actions of other drivers and be prepared to react safely.
• Be Cautious in Bad Weather: Florida’s sudden rainstorms can reduce visibility and make roads slippery.
• Plan Your Route: If you’re unfamiliar with the area, use a GPS app to check for traffic updates and avoid congested routes.
• Never Drive Under the Influence: DUI accidents are a major problem in Florida—always use a designated driver or rideshare service if you've been drinking.

What to Do If You’re in a Car Accident in Florida

If you’re involved in a car accident in Florida, taking the right steps can protect your safety and legal rights:

• Check for Injuries – Ensure that you and your passengers are safe. Call 911 if anyone is injured.
• Move to a Safe Location – If possible, move your vehicle to the side of the road to avoid further collisions.
• Call Law Enforcement – A police report is crucial for insurance claims and legal actions.
• Exchange Information – Get the contact and insurance details of the other driver(s) involved.
• Document the Scene – Take photos of the vehicles, damages, license plates, and surroundings.
• Seek Medical Attention – Even if you feel fine, some injuries may not appear immediately.
• Contact an Morgan & Morgan – If you’ve suffered injuries or property damage, consulting a car accident lawyer can help you understand your rights and seek compensation.

Car Accident in Florida? Morgan & Morgan Can Help

At Morgan & Morgan, we understand the devastating impact that car accidents can have on victims and their families. Our experienced car accident attorneys have helped thousands of Florida residents recover compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.

Here’s what sets us apart:

• Proven Track Record: We have secured billions of dollars in settlements and verdicts for our clients.
• No Fees Unless We Win: You don’t pay anything unless we win your case.
• Nationwide Resources, Local Expertise: While we are the largest personal injury law firm in the nation, we have dedicated attorneys throughout Florida who know the local laws and courts.

Miami holds the unfortunate title of having the most car accidents in Florida, but other cities like Tampa, Orlando, and Jacksonville also experience a high number of crashes. The important thing to remember is that wherever an accident occurs, you can turn to Morgan & Morgan for help. 

If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident, Morgan & Morgan is here to fight for your rights and get you the compensation you deserve. Hiring one of our lawyers is easy, and you can get started in minutes with a free case evaluation.