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During this time of the year, it is inevitable that the Florida roads become even more jam-packed than normal. Why? Snowbirds of course. Along with their arrival, they bring road conditions that can lead to a higher rate of car accidents in the area. This month, it is estimated that about 1 million snowbirds (Northerners seeking warmth in Florida) will travel to our state.
Florida’s population over the winter months goes up 5%. In Sarasota specifically, the population goes up by over 80,000 people. In Zephyrhills, the population goes up by 30,000 people. Crashes do tend to rise during these months, but there are things we can all do to stay safe on the road during this crowded season.
- SLOW DOWN: Snowbirds are older and yes, they normally drive a bit slower than the usual flow of traffic.
- AVOID Drinking and Driving: At all of the holiday parties you go to, a “couple of drinks” are enough to impair your judgement. Call an Uber
- PAY ATTENTION to the road: This means put your phone away, watch how other cars around you are driving, and follow road signs
- COOL ROAD RAGE: We get it, the traffic in the Tampa Bay Area can put you in the worst mood, but remember to take a breath and calm down. Getting worked up doesn’t help ANYTHING.
During this season, slow down in life and on the road. The snowbirds sure have. If you are a snowbird coming to Florida, make sure you know the Florida road rules that may vary from your state. For example, there is a law in Florida about driving too SLOW that not many states have.
_ Source: WTSP _