When you drive in Tampa Bay, chances are you’ve experienced at least one major traffic jam. Heavy traffic is a way of life. Unfortunately, it means accidents are also a way of life, as hundreds of drivers are impacted, injured, or even killed on our roads each year.
Many commuters wonder why traffic is so bad in Tampa, and remember when the highways were easier to navigate. There are several reasons for the increase in traffic. The team at Brooks Law Group is weighing in on those reasons, and how you can avoid accidents on Tampa’s roads.
Tampa is one of the U.S.’s fastest-growing metro areas.
Major growth means major traffic. According to many experts, Tampa is one of the hottest points in America right now. In fact, Business Observer lists Tampa Bay as one of the fastest-growing metro areas in the United States. Just since 2010, Tampa Bay has welcomed 740,000 people. That’s a 17.5% population increase! Trends show that Tampa Bay could swell to 5.3 million people by 2026, meaning traffic could potentially get worse in the years ahead.
Why is Tampa growing so quickly though? There are 3 major factors contributing to the rapid growth.
3 reasons for our increased population…and traffic…in Tampa.
In the last decade, Tampa residents have seen local highways become increasingly congested at various points throughout the day. Now, traffic is bad nearly all day every day, and rush hour feels nearly unbearable for commuters.
Why the change?
Economic Development
Florida’s economy has blossomed in recent years, and this boom has led to a huge influx in companies moving to The Sunshine State. Where the businesses go, employees follow, and that means an increase in population and traffic. What’s more, the development required to accommodate these businesses and residents has eaten away at open space, leaving little or no room for road expansions or additional express lanes.
As Tampa residents and a Tampa business, we’re thrilled with the growth our city is experiencing. However, we recognize (and roll our eyes) at the horrible traffic conditions when it’s time to head to, or from, work each day.
Tourism
Florida offers visitors a wide variety of activities and attractions. Tampa specifically is a short drive from:
- Walt Disney World Parks and Resorts
- Busch Gardens over Tampa
- Lowry Park Zoo
- Clearwater Beach (and other beautiful beaches)
- The Florida Aquarium
- Fort De Soto Park
- Kennedy Space Center
- Cocoa Beach
- and more!
These places bring hundreds of thousands of tourists across Florida’s border each year. All that tourism is great for the economy, but not for the traffic. Whether using a rideshare like Uber or Lyft, or choosing to rent a car, tourists certainly play a big role in our highway woes.
Retirement
Who wouldn’t want to retire in Florida?
If the cliche fits, we say wear it. Florida is known for attracting an “older” population. Why? Why wouldn’t you retire in Florida? We have
- year-round warm weather and lots of sunshine
- plenty of opportunities for relaxation
- hundreds of active adult communities that provide both activities and friendship
The thousands of retirees moving into the area also contribute to the influx of traffic. This is especially true during the traditionally colder months when residents who own multiple homes choose to “fly south” for the Winter. While our temps don’t get cold, they do get cooler than the summer. Our “winter” temperatures are ideal for retirees chasing the optimal weather along the coast.
How can I prevent accidents in Tampa’s heavy traffic?
Preventing accidents is all about defensive driving and being aware of your surroundings on the road. The top 5 things you can do to avoid an accident when navigating traffic in Tampa are:
- NEVER use your phone, tablet, or other device while behind the wheel. Keep your eyes on the road at all times.
- Scan ahead for upcoming obstacles, exits, etc. so you can plan your move accordingly
- Follow the posted speed limit
- Be patient. Getting frustrated leads to rash decisions, and those lead to accidents.
- Know an alternate route. If you get stuck and the road conditions are looking horrendous, having a backup plan is worth the few extra minutes it might take to get home.
Brooks Law Group represents car accident victims in Tampa Bay
As fellow Tampa residents, we take protecting our neighbors seriously. We know that the increase in traffic is causing more accidents on our local roads, and we want to see them stop. When they do happen, we’re here to represent victims with the best in legal services. If you’ve been injured in a car accident, you can count on us to put YOU first. We prioritize getting the compensation you need and we fight for the justice you deserve. When you’re facing a battle with an at-fault driver or their insurance company call the team at Brooks Law Group. We offer free consultations and operate on a contingency fee basis. That means you don’t pay unless we win. Call to schedule your first meeting with one of our skilled and experienced injury lawyers.
When accidents happen, you can always Look to Brooks.
