Those who cause injuries or property damage may Also face civil liability
Flooded streets are already dangerous to navigate. The last thing another driver needs is someone barreling through standing water, sending waves crashing onto nearby vehicles, soaking pedestrians, and blinding other motorists with a sudden wave of water. Now, Florida is cracking down on such reckless behavior.
A new law that went into effect on July 1, known as the “No Wake” law, allows cities and counties to create temporary slow-speed zones when roads are flooded. If you speed through and make waves, you can now be ticketed.
If you were injured because another driver ignored the “No Wake” law or acted recklessly on a flooded road, you may also have the right to seek compensation for your medical bills, lost income, and other damages. At Armando Personal Injury Law, our Tampa car accident lawyers know how to investigate these cases, gather the evidence needed to prove negligence, and stand up to insurance companies that try to limit your recovery.
What Is Florida's No Wake Law?
In many Florida communities, even a brief rainstorm can cause flooding. Some streets become impassable after just a short downpour. Residents say the real danger is not just the water itself, but the drivers who plow through it without thinking about the damage or hazards they create.
One homeowner in a flood-prone neighborhood described how waves from speeding cars slam into her yard with the force of an ocean tide. Another resident noted that fast-moving vehicles send water spraying onto other cars, blinding drivers and making already hazardous conditions even more dangerous.
Lawmakers say complaints surged after Hurricanes Helene and Milton. In response, the "No Wake" rule gives law enforcement the power to enforce speed restrictions during flooding. Officers can now issue tickets on a case-by-case basis, starting with warnings to make sure the message is clear.
For many residents, this law is long overdue. They hope it serves as a reminder that flooding is more than an inconvenience. It can create serious risks when drivers ignore the conditions and the safety of those around them.
Why Drivers Must Slow Down and Stay Safe in Flooded Areas
Speeding through standing water does more than send waves into someone’s yard. It can damage property, cause vehicles to hydroplane, and splash water onto pedestrians or cyclists. The goal of Florida’s new “no wake” law is simple: protect the community and reduce preventable crashes during storms.
Key dangers of speeding through flooded streets include:
- Property damage: Water can flood homes, yards, and businesses, causing costly repairs.
- Loss of control: Hitting water at high speed increases the risk of hydroplaning and losing control of the vehicle.
- Reduced visibility: Spraying water onto windshields can temporarily impair the visibility of other drivers.
- Risk to pedestrians and cyclists: Water can knock down cyclists or soak pedestrians, creating unsafe conditions.
By slowing down in flooded areas, drivers not only follow the law but also help keep their neighbors and fellow road users safe.
What to Do If a Driver Breaks the No Wake Law
If another driver speeds through a flooded street and causes you injury, it is important to act quickly. Start by documenting the scene with photos or video if it is safe to do so. Note the location, time, and weather conditions, and get contact information from any witnesses.
Report the incident to law enforcement right away. Even if the at-fault driver doesn’t stop or seems unaware of the harm they caused, an official report can help investigators identify them. Nearby businesses or homes may have security cameras that captured the incident, and your attorney can help track down that footage.
If you were injured, get medical attention immediately and keep all related records. If you suffered property damage, save repair estimates and receipts. These details will be critical if you decide to file a claim. A Tampa car accident lawyer can investigate, determine whether the at-fault driver can be identified, and explain your legal options for pursuing compensation.
Pedestrians and Cyclists Face Even Greater Risks
Flooded streets can be dangerous for anyone, but pedestrians and cyclists are especially vulnerable. A driver speeding through standing water can knock a cyclist off balance, send them into traffic, or cause injuries from the force of the wave alone. For pedestrians, the impact can cause falls, twisted ankles, or even push them into unsafe areas like intersections or deeper water.
Again, even if the driver doesn’t stop or realize the harm they caused, you may still have legal options. Witness statements, video footage, and a police report can help identify the at-fault driver and hold them accountable for their actions. If you were injured as a pedestrian or cyclist because someone ignored the “No Wake” law, an attorney can help you understand your rights and fight for the compensation you deserve.
We hold negligent drivers accountable
If you were hurt in a car crash during dangerous weather in Tampa or anywhere in Florida, you still have legal options. Rain, storms, floods, and other hazardous conditions make driving more dangerous, and when a reckless driver ignores these risks, the consequences can be severe.
At Armando Personal Injury Law, our Tampa car accident lawyers are committed to protecting your legal rights. We can investigate the crash, gather the evidence needed to prove negligence, and fight for compensation for your medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, and other damages.
We know how to investigate, gather evidence, and negotiate with insurance companies so you can focus on healing. Contact us today to schedule your free case evaluation. It costs you nothing to find out if you have a case, and we work on a contingency fee basis, which means you pay nothing unless we win.
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