Florida’s roads are no stranger to serious car crashes. However, in spite of more accidents occurring, fewer traffic tickets are being issued to rogue drivers.
South Florida roads becoming more dangerous
Over the years, South Florida roads in different counties have steadily grown more dangerous. Thousands of crashes have occurred, but at the same time, fewer traffic tickets have been issued than ever. There are several reasons behind this issue. Police claim that they have been staff-shorted and that changes to the law have put a stop to traffic ticket quotas.
Law enforcement also claims that education is a bigger focus on traffic violations than tickets. Another problem stems from red light camera tickets being far and few between compared to the past.
Do more traffic tickets equal fewer car accidents?
According to a 2010 study by researchers from George Mason University and Towson University, more traffic tickets are effective at reducing the number of car accidents. The reason behind this is that when tickets are given out more frequently, it causes drivers to change their behavior and become more mindful of their driving habits.
The study found that even when few people receive traffic tickets, it sends a clear message to other drivers. Seeing and knowing that some of their counterparts have gotten ticketed makes them more aware of the fact that it could happen to them as well. It forces them to focus on their driving and avoid getting into an accident or violating traffic laws.
Why are more accidents happening?
According to an official from AAA, car accidents started increasing in Florida after a 10-year decline. He cited impaired driving, distracted driving and speeding as the top reasons behind the increase but didn’t have an answer to the question of why fewer traffic tickets are being issued.
It’s believed that more vehicles on the roads is a major contributor to the uptick in accidents in Florida.
