Submerged Vehicle Accidents in Florida: What You Need to Know
Florida is no stranger to water-related dangers. With countless lakes, canals, and retention ponds lining our roads, car accidents that lead to vehicle submersion are more common here than in most other states. And when a car ends up in the water, the consequences can be tragic—especially for those trapped inside.
At Applebaum Accident & Injury Lawyers, we’ve seen how devastating these accidents can be. Whether caused by driver negligence, road hazards, or vehicle malfunction, submerged vehicle crashes demand serious legal attention—and fast.
Florida Leads the Nation in Drowning Deaths from Submerged Vehicles
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), Florida ranks #1 in the nation for drowning deaths in submerged vehicle crashes. One study recorded 57 fatalities, surpassing even California, despite its larger size and population.
A submerged car crash may seem rare, but when these accidents happen, they’re often deadly. More than half of all fatalities in such incidents result from drowning—not the impact of the crash itself.
What Causes a Car to End Up in Water?
1. Driver Negligence
Distracted driving, speeding, or impaired driving can all lead to a vehicle veering off the road and into a nearby lake, canal, or retention pond. In Florida, where roads often run close to water, a momentary lapse in focus can have fatal consequences.
2. Dangerous Road Conditions
From missing guardrails to faded signage or poorly maintained road surfaces, negligence on the part of government agencies or their contractors can create hazardous conditions. A pothole or unmarked curve can easily lead a driver into the water—especially at night or during Florida’s frequent rainstorms.
3. Vehicle Defects
Mechanical failures like brake malfunctions, faulty steering, or defective acceleration systems can prevent a driver from avoiding water hazards. When that happens, the manufacturer may be legally responsible under product liability laws.
4. Multi-Vehicle Collisions
Many submerged vehicle cases involve a secondary crash—such as being sideswiped or rear-ended—that forces the victim off the road and into a body of water. When another driver’s negligence leads to such an outcome, they must be held accountable.
Drowning and Near-Drowning: The Hidden Dangers
Beyond blunt-force injuries common in car crashes, victims of submerged vehicle accidents face another major threat: lack of oxygen. Near-drowning incidents can cause permanent brain damage due to oxygen deprivation, leading to lifelong complications that may require full-time care.
At Applebaum Accident & Injury Lawyers, we fight for full compensation for all damages—including medical costs, future care, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.
What to Do if Your Car Becomes Submerged
Safety experts recommend the following steps if your vehicle enters the water:
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Act fast: Unbuckle your seatbelt and try to roll down your window before the car sinks.
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If underwater: Wait until the vehicle fills with water to open a door or break a window.
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Swim or float: If unable to swim to shore, float on your back until help arrives.
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Seek medical help immediately, even if you feel fine at first.
Who Can Be Held Liable in a Submerged Car Accident?
Depending on the circumstances, several parties may bear responsibility, including:
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Negligent drivers who caused a crash that led to your car entering the water.
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Local or state agencies that failed to maintain safe road conditions or guardrails.
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Automakers that sold vehicles with dangerous mechanical defects.
Establishing liability in these cases is often complex and requires a detailed investigation. That’s where our legal team steps in.
Why You Need a Personal Injury Lawyer—Now
If you or a loved one has been injured—or worse, if you’ve lost someone—in a submerged vehicle accident, don’t wait. Insurance companies may try to minimize your claim or shift blame. But at Applebaum Accident & Injury Lawyers, your recovery is our priority.
We take over the communication, handle every legal detail, and work aggressively to secure the compensation you need to move forward. From hospital bills to long-term rehabilitation, we’ll pursue every dollar you deserve.
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Case Review Today
You shouldn’t have to fight alone after a traumatic accident. Our experienced personal injury attorneys are here to support you every step of the way.
Call (855) -Call-Paul or contact us online for a consultation. We’ll listen, guide you through your legal options, and give you the personalized attention your case deserves.
At Applebaum Accident & Injury Lawyers, we don’t just represent you—we stand with you.
