Victims of these crashes often face medical bills and uncertainty about who is responsible
From the busy interstates to the neighborhood roads, driving in Hillsborough County demands constant attention. Recent crash data shows just how dangerous those roads have been. With more than 14,000 crashes in the latest reporting period, the numbers indicate a safety issue that affects drivers, passengers, cyclists, and pedestrians alike.
But this isn’t just a spreadsheet of statistics. Behind every number is a family grieving a loved one, a survivor coping with life-changing injuries, and communities feeling the impact. Here’s what the data reveals about what’s happening on our roads and why it matters.
How many crashes have happened in Hillsborough County in 2025?
Between January 1 and July 31, 2025, Hillsborough County reported 14,320 crashes. That means, on average, dozens of collisions happen every single day. Out of those crashes:
- 88 people lost their lives
- 8,973 people were injured
- 82 crashes were fatal, and 6,030 caused injuries
While most crashes don't result in death, thousands of people still face hospital visits, lost income, and lasting pain. Each crash also puts added strain on first responders, hospital staff, and investigators.
Motorcycle riders were involved in 299 crashes, with 17 fatalities. Without the protection of a vehicle frame, even a low-speed collision can cause severe injury or death. Visibility remains a major issue for riders, especially in congested traffic.
Why Do So many motorcycle fatalities happen in Hillsborough County?
Motorcycle fatalities are high in Hillsborough County for several reasons, and the county’s traffic patterns and roadway conditions play a big role.
First, Hillsborough has a dense mix of high-speed highways, busy urban streets, and growing suburban areas. Motorcycles are more difficult for other drivers to see, especially in heavy traffic or during lane changes, making riders more vulnerable to collisions. When a crash happens, the lack of a protective vehicle frame means even minor impacts can cause catastrophic injuries or death.
The weather is another factor. Florida’s year-round riding season means more motorcycles are on the road more often, increasing exposure to risk. Sudden rainstorms, slick pavement, and reduced visibility can make riding more dangerous. On top of that, distracted and impaired driving are common contributors to motorcycle crashes in the county and can be especially deadly.
How big a problem are hit-and-run crashes?
Hit-and-run incidents remain a serious concern. Hillsborough County recorded 3,485 hit-and-run crashes, which is roughly one out of every four collisions. Out of those, five people were killed and 775 were injured. When drivers flee, victims may not get the urgent medical care they need, and families are left without answers. Florida law makes it a serious crime to leave the scene of a crash involving injury or death, but without witnesses or camera footage, tracking down offenders can be challenging.
Fortunately, hit-and-run victims still have options to recover costs for medical bills, lost wages, and other expenses. In Florida, the first source of coverage is usually your own insurance, including:
- Personal Injury Protection (PIP): All Florida drivers are required to carry PIP, which can cover a portion of medical expenses and lost income after a crash, regardless of fault.
- Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage: If you have UM coverage, it can step in when the at-fault driver is unidentified or has no insurance. This can help cover medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
- Medical Payments (MedPay) coverage: Optional MedPay insurance can cover medical expenses that exceed your PIP limits.
- Health insurance: Your health plan can also be used to cover the cost of treatment, although you may still be responsible for deductibles and copays.
What is being done to improve road safety?
If current trends continue, Hillsborough County could be on track for another year with high crash numbers. But local agencies, law enforcement, and community groups are taking steps to reverse the trend. Efforts include:
- Targeted crackdowns on speeding, red-light running, and impaired driving
- Public campaigns encouraging drivers to share the road with cyclists and pedestrians
- Infrastructure upgrades like crosswalk improvements, protected bike lanes, and better street lighting
- Smart traffic technology to manage congestion and improve flow
- School-based programs to teach young drivers safe habits
Injured? Get an experienced Tampa Motorcycle accident lawyer on your side
If you were injured in a motorcycle accident in Tampa or anywhere in Hillsborough County, you need a law firm that will stand up to the insurance companies and fight for every dollar you’re owed. Medical bills can pile up quickly, lost wages can take a toll on your finances, and physical pain can overwhelm you after a crash. That's why Armando Personal Injury Law is committed to protecting the rights of motorcycle crash victims and their families across Tampa and the surrounding communities.
Founding attorney Armando Edmiston has built a reputation for relentless advocacy and compassionate client care. We know the tactics insurance companies use to reduce payouts, and we’re prepared to counter them with strong evidence and a well-built legal strategy. From gathering medical records and accident reports to negotiating with adjusters, we handle every detail of your claim so you can focus on healing. You don’t pay us anything unless we win your case; our work is done on a contingency fee basis.
Contact us today to schedule your free consultation. We’ll listen to your story, explain your legal options, and start building a case tailored to your needs. The sooner you reach out, the sooner we can begin protecting your rights and building your case.
“Armando was wonderful and always kept me updated about my claim. It was the best decision I made to go to him. I would recommend him to anyone in need of his services.” – B.S., ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐