Mrs. López and all of the Staff that had helped us it has been an absolute pleasure. They always had an answer to our questions and treated us with respect but most of all they listened.
Alondra O.
Outstanding Attorneys and Legal Team. Lopez, Justin, and Daisy were quick to answer my questions and handled my accident case with speed and courtesy. The outcome was much better than I anticipated.
Robert R.
A huge thanks to your office for such a great experience with my case. Special thanks to Denora, Carmen, and especially Kevin for answering my many calls and questions and keeping me informed through the entire process. I’m am extremely happy and grateful with the outcome.
Kathy W.
Polk County is one of the fastest-growing areas in Florida, and with that growth comes a troubling rise in traffic accidents. According to recent data from the Polk Transportation Planning Organization (TPO), our roads are becoming more hazardous each year—and it’s something every driver, cyclist, and pedestrian should be aware of.
Whether you’re commuting through Lakeland, driving along State Road 60, or navigating US 27, the risks are real. If you’ve been involved in an accident in Polk County, you’re not alone and understanding the dangers on our roads could help you make smarter decisions and better protect yourself and your loved ones.
Crashes Are Rising, and So Are the Consequences
Polk County sees more than 5,000 traffic crashes a year. Thousands of these result in serious injuries, and nearly 120 people lose their lives annually on local roads.
Some of the most dangerous roads in the county include:
- US Highway 98 (especially between Lakeland and Bartow)
- State Road 60 (from Mulberry to Lake Wales)
- US 27 (Davenport through Frostproof)
- South Florida Avenue in Lakeland
- SR 37 near Mulberry
These high-crash corridors often feature heavy traffic, high speeds, and outdated infrastructure. For example, many of these roads lack safe pedestrian crossings, bike lanes, or adequate lighting, making accidents more likely especially during peak travel hours or poor weather conditions.
Who’s Most at Risk?
While anyone can be involved in an accident in Polk County, the data shows that certain groups are especially vulnerable:
- Young drivers (ages 15–24) are involved in a disproportionate number of crashes
- Older adults (65+) face more severe outcomes due to physical vulnerability
- Pedestrians and bicyclists are frequently involved in fatal incidents
Many of these accidents are preventable, but risky driving behaviors like speeding, distracted driving, and failure to yield remain common across the county.
Why PIP Isn’t Always Enough
Florida is a no-fault state, which means your own insurance covers medical costs and lost wages after an accident regardless of who caused it. This is done through Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage, which is required for all drivers. However, PIP only covers up to $10,000, and it doesn’t pay for things like pain and suffering or long-term rehabilitation.
In serious accidents, that $10,000 cap is used up quickly especially if you require an ambulance, emergency treatment, or extended time off work. That’s where having the right additional coverage becomes crucial.
Uninsured Motorist Coverage: A Must in Polk County
With accidents happening at an alarming rate here in Polk County, the odds that you might need additional coverage if you are injured are high. One of the most concerning findings from our experience in car accident cases is how many accidents involve drivers who are uninsured or underinsured. This means you could be left paying the price for someone else’s mistake unless you’re protected.
Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) coverage steps in when the at-fault driver has little or no insurance. Given the number of severe and fatal accidents in Polk County, this coverage is not just a smart choice, it’s essential.
Protect Yourself Before and After an Accident
With thousands of people injured in traffic crashes every year, it’s clear that Polk County roads can be dangerous. But you don’t have to face the aftermath alone. If you or someone you love has been involved in an accident in Polk County, it’s important to understand your legal rights and insurance options.
You may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical expenses beyond PIP
- Lost income
- Pain and suffering
- Long-term care or rehabilitation
- Property damage
Call Lopez & Humphries, PA for a Free Consultation
If you’ve been hurt in an accident in Polk County, don’t wait. The sooner you speak with an experienced personal injury attorney, the better your chances of recovering full compensation. At Lopez & Humphries, PA, we’re proud to serve clients in Lakeland, Winter Haven, Mulberry, Bartow, and throughout Polk County.
We’ll help you understand your insurance coverage, deal with the other driver’s insurance company, and fight to get the money you deserve.
Call today for your free, no-obligation consultation. We’re here when you need us most.
