January Crash Spikes on I-275: How a Car Accident Lawyer in Tampa Helps After a New Year Wreck

The moment that the holiday lights come down and people get back to their regular routines in January, car accidents in Tampa start to spike…and they spike fast. If you’ve driven along I-275, crossed the Howard Frankland, or sat in that long line of traffic on Dale Mabry, then you already know how hectic it can get at this time of year.

That’s because January driving in Tampa is a mix of packed roads, out-of-towners behind the wheel, and unpredictable Florida weather. You’ve got tourists who are still trying to figure out our exit ramps, locals that are rushing back to work after the holidays, and thick morning fog that often shows up without warning. It’s the kind of combination that leads to crashes…and a lot of them.

If you’ve been hurt in one of those wrecks, Mickey Keenan is here to help. As a car accident lawyer in Tampa, we know exactly what to expect from these post-holiday collisions and what steps you need to take right now in order to protect yourself. Keep reading to learn why these accidents happen, where they happen, and what to do next if you’re dealing with the aftermath of a January crash in Tampa or the surrounding area.

Why Car Accidents Spike in Tampa After New Year’s

When January hits in Tampa, Florida car accidents tend to rise, and there are a few reasons that this happens. If you’re wondering why this time of year feels a bit more chaotic on the road, here’s what’s going on:

1. Seasonal Population Surges

Right after the holidays, Tampa fills up with winter visitors. That includes snowbirds, tourists, cruise passengers, and temporary residents. With a lot more people in town, there are more cars on the road, and that means more chances for crashes, especially in high-traffic areas like I-275, Gandy, and Dale Mabry.

2. Unfamiliar Drivers and Confusing Roads

Let’s be honest here, Tampa’s road system isn’t always easy to figure out. That is especially true if someone is driving here for the first time. There are short ramps, sudden merges, toll roads, drawbridges, and some pretty unexpected twists and turns. Visitors who don’t know where they’re going are more likely to make last-minute moves, slow down suddenly, or miss a turn, and that can cause an accident.

3. Post-Holiday Fatigue and Distraction

After all of the New Year celebrations and holiday travel, a lot of people are tired and still recuperating. They’re also distracted and maybe a little stressed out about going back to work. Fatigue and distraction are two of the top causes of accidents in January, and they’re hard to avoid when people are rushing around, trying to get back to normal.

4. Tampa’s Winter Weather

Florida weather in January can change fast. One minute it’s clear, and the next you’re driving through thick fog or heavy rain. That kind of sudden weather leads to low visibility, slippery roads, and slower reaction times.

If you’ve been hurt because of any of these situations, a Florida accident lawyer from our team knows exactly what to do. At Mickey Keenan we understand all of the seasonal crash trends and can help to build a case that takes all of these specific details into account.

Tampa’s January Crash Hotspots: Where Wrecks Happen Most

If you’ve lived in Tampa for even just a short time, then you already know that some roads are a bit more dangerous than others, especially in January. We’ve handled so many cases in these exact areas, and we want you to know where accidents happen most often so you can stay alert and, if needed, know that we’re always here to help.

1. I-275 and the Downtown Interchange

I-275 car accidents happen often, and they can happen really fast. That’s because this stretch is full of fast merges, sharp lane changes, and some confusing exits. During tourist season, people who aren’t familiar with the area slow down suddenly or swerve, and that creates big risks for everyone on the road around them. Whether you’re headed downtown or are trying to avoid it, this is one of the most common spots for January car accidents in the Tampa area.

2. Howard Frankland Bridge

This bridge is often covered in thick fog, fast-moving cars, and some tight lanes, and when you add construction into this mix, crashes become even more likely to happen. People brake suddenly, miss their lane shifts, or fail to adjust to the slower moving traffic in time. We’ve worked with many drivers who were hit in these exact situations.

3. Dale Mabry Highway

Dale Mabry is one of the busiest roads in Tampa. That means you’ve got constant stop-and-go traffic, left-turn conflicts, and crashes near the parking lot entrances. On game days, things get even more chaotic. It can be a very high-risk road to travel on.

4. Gandy and Westshore Area

This area often sees a lot of tourists, beach traffic, rideshare pickups, and a happening nightlife. That mix means more drivers who are distracted, unfamiliar with the area, or driving late at night.

5. Selmon Expressway

Selmon has short ramps and fast-moving cars, which leads to last-minute merging and a lot of rear-end crashes during the morning and evening commutes. These accidents can be severe because of the speed involved.

If you were hurt in one of these hotspots, a car accident lawyer in Tampa from our team at Mickey Keenan knows the ins and outs of these exact roads, and we’re here to help you through what comes next.

Common Injuries Seen After January Crashes in Tampa

Even when a crash doesn’t seem that bad at first, the injuries that come out of it can be very serious. We’ve worked with people from all over Tampa who were hurt in January collisions, and these are the types of injuries that we see again and again.

If you’re dealing with any of these after a Tampa car crash, it’s important to know that you’re not alone, and you don’t have to figure it out all on your own either.

Here are the most common injuries we see after January crashes:

• Whiplash and neck or back strain – These are caused by sudden stopping or jerking movements. These car crash injuries are very commonly seen in rear-end collisions.
• Concussions and head injuries – These happen from impact with the steering wheel, window, or even just the force of a sudden jolt.
• Herniated discs – These are very painful and can press on nerves, causing long-term discomfort.
• Shoulder, hip, and knee injuries – These are often caused by impact or twisting in the vehicle.
• Fractures and soft tissue injuries – These can include broken bones or torn ligaments.
• Multi-car pileups and chain-reaction crashes – These types of accidents lead to more complicated injuries, especially along I-275 in Tampa and other high-speed roads.

If you’re dealing with any of these issues after a crash, contacting a Tampa auto accident lawyer is a must. They can help you understand all of your options and take the next right step forward.

How a Car Accident Lawyer in Tampa Protects Your Claim After a New Year Wreck

After a New Year crash, things tend to move very quickly. Evidence can disappear, insurance companies can start calling, and sometimes the important details can get lost. That is why working with a car accident lawyer in Tampa right away makes such a difference. We step in early, and we take control of the process so you can focus on healing and getting back to your routine.

Preserving traffic and surveillance footage

Many Tampa roads, intersections, and businesses use cameras. That includes areas near I-275, downtown, Gandy, and major intersections. This footage is often erased within a few days. We act fast to request and preserve the video that clearly shows how the crash happened.

Gathering reports, witnesses, and evidence

We collect police reports, witness statements, photos, and any other available crash data. That information helps create a clear picture of exactly what took place and who is responsible. Every detail matters, and we make sure that nothing is overlooked.

Organizing medical records and timelines

Having clear records is essential. We gather your medical documentation and organize it in a way that shows the full scope of care that you received and how the accident affected you. That level of organization helps support your claim from start to finish.

Calculating full damages

We look at all losses that you have incurred that are connected to the crash. That includes medical expenses, time missed from work, and how the accident affects your daily life going forward. This step is very important in order to build a strong case.

Handling insurance communication

Insurance companies often push for fast settlements or try to shift the blame. We handle all calls, paperwork, and negotiations so that you don’t have to. A car accident lawyer in Tampa understands these tactics and knows exactly how to respond.

Coordinating trusted local experts

When needed, we work with accident reconstruction professionals and medical specialists who understand Tampa roads and crash patterns. That level of local insight strengthens your case.

When you work with a Tampa car accident attorney from our team at Mickey Keenan, you have someone on your side who knows the process, knows the area, and knows how to give you the strongest possible claim.

What To Do in the First 24–48 Hours After a Tampa Crash

The first day or two after a car crash can feel scary and overwhelming. This is completely normal. But the truth is, what you do right after the crash really does matter. These steps can protect your health, your case, and your peace of mind, and we’re here to walk you through them.

1. Move to Safety (If You Can)

If your vehicle is in the middle of the road or on the shoulder of a fast-moving highway like I-275 or the Selmon Expressway, the first thing to do is move to safety. Get to the side of the road or a nearby parking lot if your car can still drive and it’s safe for you to do so.

2. Call 911 and File a Report

You should always call the police, even for a crash that seems minor. That police report will become an important part of your claim later on.

3. Document the Crash Scene

Take pictures of everything, like your car, the other car, the road, any traffic signs, and the surrounding area. If anyone saw what happened, ask for their name and phone number.

4. Get Checked Out

Go to a doctor as soon as you can. Getting medical attention right away is very important for your health, and the health of your claim if there have been injuries. It will help keep everything clearly documented.

5. Keep Notes on Your Recovery

Write down how you’re feeling, any appointments you go to, and any time that you miss from work. Keeping a simple journal helps show the impact that the crash had on your life.

6. Talk to a Lawyer Before Giving a Statement

Before you speak to any insurance company, it’s a smart idea to check in with a car crash attorney in Tampa first. We’ll help you understand your rights and make sure that you don’t say something that could be used against you later on.

Why Local Representation Matters After a January Crash in Tampa

When you’ve been in a crash, especially along I-275 or any of Tampa’s busiest roads, working with someone local really does make a big difference. A car accident lawyer in Tampa knows the traffic patterns here, the usual collision zones, and how quickly things can change on roads like the Selmon, Gandy, or the Howard Frankland.

We know how Hillsborough County handles these claims. That means we can act faster, gather evidence sooner, and communicate clearly without any delays. Our team understands the flow of traffic at different times of day, the bottlenecks, and even how construction zones can impact crash outcomes.

At Mickey Keenan, we live and work in this area too. That’s why we build strong relationships with local medical providers, law enforcement, and experts. Whether you were hit in a car, on a motorcycle, or while driving to work, a Tampa motorcycle accident lawyer or auto lawyer on our team is here to walk you through every step of the process.

If you need a car accident lawyer in Tampa, contact Mickey Keenan today.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it safe to drive today in Tampa?

That depends on a few things, like the weather, traffic conditions, and time of day. Tampa roads (especially I-275, the Selmon Expressway, and the Howard Frankland) get busy really fast, especially in January. It’s always a good idea to check your route before heading out.

What to do after a car accident in Florida?

The first thing to do is move to a safe spot if you can. Then call 911, document the scene, and get medical care. After that, talking to a Florida accident lawyer can help protect your rights and guide your next steps.

What is the 51 percent rule in Florida?

Florida follows the 51 percent comparative fault rule. That means if you’re found more than 51 percent at fault for a crash, you may not be able to recover damages.

What is the first thing you do after a car accident?

The very first thing to do is make sure you’re safe. Then call the police, exchange information, and take photos of everything you can.