The tourism industry is the largest employer and revenue producer in Florida, and it doesn’t show any signs of slowing down. In 2024, Florida saw a 1.7% increase over the record that was set in 2023. With 143 million visitors in 2024 and already 41.2 million visitors for the first quarter of 2025, it’s no secret that people come here to enjoy fun in the sun.
With the time spent in the sun and a plethora of attractions, visitors to this state are often more exhausted during their vacation than they expect. That exhaustion, coupled with unfamiliarity with Florida roads, can be a dangerous combination.
Fatigued driving should always be prevented
Visitors often try to pack as much activity as they can into the time they’re here. That sometimes means that vacationers go without adequate sleep. Unfortunately, that’s a big hazard. If they go without sleep for 18 hours, they will experience effects similar to someone who has a blood alcohol concentration of .05%, which is just shy of legally intoxicated. The effects may be enhanced if the individual is overly fatigued because of time in the sun and heat.
No hacks can stop fatigue
Some people assume that they can beat fatigue by using hacks they may see on social media, but that’s never the case. Things like drinking coffee or energy drinks, playing music or rolling down the windows may provide a burst of energy, but they aren’t suitable for long-term fatigue prevention. Sleeping is the only way that drivers can prevent fatigue.
When a fatigued driver strikes another vehicle, catastrophic injuries are possible. Those victims will need medical care, which can be costly. They may choose to seek compensation to help cover the costs associated with the crash. Working with someone who’s familiar with these matters may be beneficial for the victims.