You’ve probably heard that red cars get pulled over more or that black vehicles have a higher chance of getting into accidents. But does your car’s color affect your chances of getting into a crash in Florida? If you live in the Tampa Bay metropolitan area, namely Tampa, Clearwater or St. Petersburg, knowing how color impacts visibility on the road can help you stay safer.
One way a vehicle’s color can affect its likelihood to be involved in an accident is if it plays into its visibility on the road.
A car’s color can affect its visibility
Darker vehicles like black, gray or dark blue are more likely to be involved in accidents, especially in low light or bad weather. For instance, black cars are 12% more likely to be in a collision during the day, and that risk jumps to 47% during dawn or dusk.
Colors with higher crash risks include:
- Gray: 11% higher crash risk than white cars
- Silver: 10% higher crash risk
- Blue and red: 7% higher crash risk each
By contrast, white cars are among the safest. Data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) shows that white vehicles tend to be involved in fewer accidents and are easier to spot in various conditions.
This is especially important in Florida, where rapid weather changes and shifting light conditions make staying visible even more important. Pay attention to how Florida’s roads can make it tougher for you to stay visible.
How car color can affect your case
While your car’s color doesn’t decide who’s at fault in an accident, it can still be a factor. Especially in low-light conditions or bad weather. If another driver says they didn’t see you, a lawyer you consult with may investigate whether your vehicle’s color contributed to reduced visibility. That detail could strengthen your case.
Now that you are aware of the risks, here’s what you can do to reduce them.
Steps to stay safe on Florida roads
Improving your visibility on the road can significantly reduce your risk of a crash. Simple choices can help you stand out to other drivers and stay safer behind the wheel. Apart from picking a lighter color to improve your car’s visibility, here are some other steps to consider:
- Use bright lights: In conditions such as fog and storms, bright lights will make your car more visible
- Use visibility aids: Daytime running lights and reflectors will help other drivers see your vehicle better
- Drive cautiously in poor conditions: Slowing down in bad weather can prevent high-speed collisions and give you enough time to respond to obstacles
Should you and your vehicle be involved in a collision due to poor visibility, consider reaching out to a local attorney. A legal professional can advise you on your case and help protect your rights in court if the matter escalates.
Car color is a safety factor, but not the only one
While your car’s color doesn’t directly cause accidents, it can affect how easily others see you, particularly in low light or heavy traffic. Opting for a more visible color and using features like daytime running lights or reflectors can improve your visibility. However, safe driving remains the most important factor in preventing collisions
If you’re in a crash caused by low visibility, consulting with a Florida personal injury lawyer may help protect your rights and guide you through the claims process.