Every summer, millions of travelers pour into the Sunshine State to enjoy its beaches, nightlife, and warm weather. In 2024, Florida welcomed a record 35 million summer visitors out of a total 156 million annual tourists, boosting the state’s economy by $131 billion. But while those numbers are a win for local businesses, they also mean congested highways, distracted drivers, and an alarming number of crashes.

A new analysis by The Schiller Kessler Group examines which beach counties see the highest accident numbers, who is most affected, and what behaviors are putting drivers and passengers most at risk.

Tourism and Traffic Collide: Where Crashes Peak

In 2023, Florida recorded 395,175 motor vehicle crashes, causing 252,285 injuries and 3,396 deaths. Alcohol played a role in 839 fatalities (25%), while speeding caused 349 deaths (10.3%).

Tourism is a major factor. Packed roads, GPS distractions, unfamiliar traffic patterns, and the mix of rental cars with local commuters all contribute to dangerous conditions. Tourist-heavy counties like Miami-Dade, Palm Beach, Pinellas, Volusia, and Broward — home to beaches like South Beach, Palm Beach, Clearwater, Daytona, and Pompano — accounted for 955 fatalities in 2023, or 28% of the state’s total deaths.

That means just five counties out of 67 carried a disproportionate burden, proving Florida’s most popular beach destinations are also among the riskiest to drive in.

Who’s at Risk? Age and Gender Patterns

Florida crash data shows that men accounted for 75% of fatalities in 2023, with 694 male deaths compared to 233 female deaths. Men drive more miles, take greater risks, and are more likely to speed or drive impaired, leading to more severe outcomes.

By age group, the deadliest bracket is 25–34-year-olds (175 deaths), followed by 35–44 (140 deaths) and 55–64 (132 deaths). Younger drivers (16–24) are more prone to risky behaviors but drive fewer miles, keeping their fatality numbers lower. Older drivers (65+) are more vulnerable to injuries, accounting for over 200 deaths collectively.

When Accidents Happen: Deadly Months and Hours

March was the deadliest month across beach counties, with 106 fatalities during Spring Break, followed by May (98) and February (91). By contrast, August and June saw the fewest fatal crashes.

Evenings are the most dangerous hours:

• 10–11 PM led with 31 deaths
• 9–10 PM and 7–8 PM both recorded 29 fatalities
• 3–4 PM also proved deadly, with 29 fatalities linked to rush-hour and distraction

These trends highlight how alcohol, fatigue, and reduced visibility combine to make nights and weekends especially hazardous for beachgoers and residents alike.

What Vehicles Are Most Involved?

Motorcycles are consistently overrepresented in fatal crash data. In 2023, they accounted for 196 deaths, despite making up a much smaller share of vehicles on the road. Passenger cars (168 fatalities), SUVs (64), and pickup trucks (35) also featured prominently.

Vehicle brand data shows Honda, Toyota, and Chevrolet models appear most frequently in fatal crashes, largely because they are widely driven. However, motorcycles from Suzuki, Kawasaki, Yamaha, and BMW made up over 90 fatal incidents, underscoring the extreme vulnerability of riders.

The Underlying Behaviors: Alcohol, Speed, and Distraction

Drunk driving is the leading cause of fatal crashes across Florida’s beach counties, with Miami-Dade and Palm Beach topping the list. Speeding ranks second, particularly in dense urban counties, while distracted driving, though smaller overall, remains a persistent issue, especially in Volusia.

Even with strong traffic laws, inconsistent enforcement and risky habits continue to push Florida’s fatality numbers higher.

Staying Safe on Florida Roads

With over 800 miles of shoreline and world-famous beaches, Florida will always be a top destination. But the price of paradise can be steep when tourists and locals alike make dangerous choices behind the wheel.

To stay safe:

• Avoid late-night driving after drinking or long days at the beach.
• Stay alert in unfamiliar traffic patterns and tourist-heavy zones.
• Follow speed limits and allow extra time for travel during peak months.
• Motorcyclists should wear protective gear and drive defensively.

The Schiller Kessler Group: Standing Up for Crash Victims

“At Florida’s beaches, the same things that bring joy to millions — crowds, nightlife, and celebration — also raise crash risks,” said a spokesperson for The Schiller Kessler Group. “Too many of these tragedies are preventable, and our mission is to fight for those whose lives are shattered by negligence.”