Dangerous Roads Increase Pinellas County Car Accident Risks
Reckless behavior on the part of other drivers is a leading cause of car accidents in Pinellas County, but the specific road you travel on could increase your risks. One of those roads is 49th Street, designated as part of a ‘High Injury Network’ by Pinellas Forward in developing the County Action Plan. Our Seminole car accident attorney explains some of the factors that make it and other streets so dangerous and precautions you can take to protect yourself and your passengers.
Road Factors That Increase Seminole Car Accident Risks
Easy to get to from Park Boulevard, 49th Street is a common route for many Seminole residents. You likely have seen some close calls if you use it to get to and from work or run errands.
The 49th Street Corridor, which stretches for 13 miles, has the dubious distinction of being named part of the High Injury Network (NIH). Despite representing only three percent of local roads, they are responsible for 40 percent of all car accidents in Pinellas County.
Park Boulevard is also on the list due to the hazards it poses to pedestrians. What makes these and other roads so dangerous to drivers and other road users? It is often a combination of factors, which include:
- Lack of sidewalks, crosswalks, or bike lanes, increasing bicycle and pedestrian accident risks;
- High-speed limits, which increase both the likelihood and severity of a crash;
- A lack of traffic signs and signals;
- Poorly marked lanes, lack of street lights or a shoulder, and roads in a general state of disrepair.
According to a January 25, 2025, Tampa Bay Times news report, Forward Pinellas has received several grants to help improve High Injury Network roads. Road repurposing and other projects are underway, with sections near schools and other sensitive locations taking top priority.
How To Reduce Pinellas County Car Accident Risks On Dangerous Roads
While dangerous roads can make car accidents in Pinellas County more likely to happen, reckless driving is often the primary cause. To reduce your risks, practice safe driving behavior:
- Obey speed limits and slow for heavy traffic and adverse road conditions;
- Watch for bicyclists and pedestrians, particularly near schools, parks, and other public places;
- Pay attention and avoid distractions while driving, such as texting or making calls;
- Avoid aggressive driving behaviors, such as tailgating, improper passing, and failing to yield.
If you are involved in a car accident in Pinellas County, notify the police. Get contact information for all drivers involved, take photos or videos of the site and your vehicle, and seek medical attention. Avoid admitting blame or downplaying your damages when dealing with insurers in the aftermath.
Contact Our Pinellas County Car Accident Attorney
Car accidents in Pinellas County are common on certain roads and can cause serious, potentially life-threatening injuries. The Reep Law Firm protects you in the aftermath, providing the professional legal representation you need to get compensation.
For help in getting the maximum amount you need to recover, contact our office. Request a consultation today with our Seminole car accident attorney.
Sources:
forwardpinellas.org/safestreets/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/6-Safe-Streets-Pinellas-Action-Plan-High-Injury-Network.pdf
tampabay.com/news/transportation/2025/01/25/pinellas-county-hopes-eliminate-49th-street-crash-hot-spots/
