Common Causes of Car Accidents in Fort Myers

Fort Myers is known for its warm climate, beautiful coastlines, and vibrant community. However, its growing population and influx of tourists mean that the roads can be busy, and accidents are all too common. Understanding the primary causes of car accidents in Fort Myers can help drivers stay vigilant and avoid collisions. If you have been hurt and injured in an accident, the team at Wolfson & Leon is here to help. Call us at 239-777-9954 for a free consultation.

Inattentive driving is one of the leading causes of accidents across the country, and Fort Myers is no exception. Whether it’s talking on the phone, texting, consumption of food, or employing in-car technology, taking your focus off the road for even a few seconds can lead to devastating consequences.

Local roads like Colonial Boulevard and US-41, which are often congested, are particularly dangerous when drivers are not fully attentive. According to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV), preoccupied driving contributes to thousands of crashes annually in the state.

How to Avoid It:

• Keep your phone at a distance while driving.
• Use hands-free gadgets if you need to make calls.
• Stay focused on the road and avoid multitasking.

Speeding is a common issue on Fort Myers roads, especially on stretches like Daniels Parkway and I-75. Exceeding the speed limit lessens a driver’s ability to react to abrupt changes, such as a car stopping abruptly or a pedestrian crossing the road. High-speed collisions are often more severe, resulting in significant injuries or fatalities.

How to Avoid It:

• Follow legal speed limits, especially in residential and school zones.
• Adjust your speed during inclement weather or heavy traffic.
• Leave earlier to avoid the temptation to rush.

Despite widespread awareness campaigns, drunk driving remains a major cause of accidents in Fort Myers. Roads near popular nightlife areas, such as Downtown Fort Myers or the River District, are hotspots for impaired driving crashes. Alcohol impairs judgment, slows reaction times, and increases the likelihood of severe accidents.

How to Avoid It:

• Never drive if you’ve consumed alcohol. Use a rideshare service or pick a sober driver.
• Report suspected drunk drivers to local authorities.
• Encourage friends and family to make responsible decisions.

Florida’s unpredictable weather can create hazardous driving conditions. Sudden rainstorms often lead to slick roads and reduced visibility, contributing to accidents on major thoroughfares like McGregor Boulevard and Palm Beach Boulevard.

How to Avoid It:

• Slow down and increase following distances during rain.
• Ensure your windshield wipers and headlights are in good working condition.
• Pull over if visibility becomes too poor to drive safely.

Blowing red lights, ignoring stop signs, and improper lane changes are common causes of accidents. Intersections along US-41 and Six Mile Cypress Parkway see frequent violations, leading to dangerous T-bone and rear-end collisions.

How to Avoid It:

• Always stop at red lights and stop signs.
• Use turn signals to indicate your intentions to another driver.
• Yield to pedestrians and other vehicles when required.

Fort Myers is home to several accident-prone areas. Some of the most dangerous roads and intersections include:

• US-41 (Cleveland Avenue): Known for heavy traffic and frequent lane changes.
• Colonial Boulevard and Fowler Street: A busy intersection with a high volume of vehicles during rush hours.
• Daniels Parkway and I-75: High-speed merges and exits contribute to frequent accidents.
• Six Mile Cypress Parkway and Colonial Boulevard: Congestion and turning vehicles increase the risk of collisions.

Being aware of these areas and exercising extra caution can help reduce your risk of an accident.

If you’ve been injured in a car accident, seeking legal representation is crucial for protecting your rights and securing fair compensation. Here’s how Wolfson & Leon can help:

1. Thorough Investigation - 
Our attorneys gather evidence, such as police reports, witness statements, and surveillance footage, to build a strong case.
2. Dealing with Insurance - 
Insurance adjusters often aim to minimize payouts. We handle all communications to ensure you receive the compensation you merit.
3. Calculating Damages - 
We work to recover damages for lost wages, medical bills, pain, suffering, and property damage.
4. Litigation Support
 - If a fair settlement cannot be reached, our experienced trial attorneys are prepared to take your case to court.

At Wolfson & Leon, we proudly serve clients throughout Southwest Florida, including:

• Fort Myers
• Cape Coral
• Naples
• Lehigh Acres
• Bonita Springs
• Estero
• Sanibel
• Immokalee
• Fort Myers Beach
• Pine Island

Car accidents in Fort Myers can have life-altering consequences. Whether you’ve been injured on US-41, Colonial Boulevard, or any other road in the area, the team at Wolfson & Leon is here to help. Call us at 239-777-9954 for a free consultation.

We’ll guide you through the legal process, protect your rights, and fight for the compensation you deserve. Don’t navigate the aftermath of a car accident alone—trust the experienced Fort Myers car accident lawyers at Wolfson & Leon to handle your case with expertise and care.