Florida has been known to have the highest rate of pedestrian deaths in the nation. In 2019, the Governors Highway Safety Association estimated that there were nearly 6,600 deaths in the State just from people getting struck by a car while walking or crossing the road.
Throughout Tampa Bay, there have been many calls to action for better pedestrian safety after the area has seen soaring numbers of local citizens being killed by vehicles. Last year (2020) the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office teamed up with Florida’s Department of Transportation to launch the ‘High Visibility Enforcement Pedestrian and Bicycle Safety Project’.
This safety campaign targeted areas and intersections of Pinellas County that were known as ‘high crash areas” for people walking and biking. Not far from Pinellas, Tampa in particular has been named as one of the most dangerous cities in the country for pedestrians.
Bayshore Boulevard alongside Tampa Bay offers a very long sidewalk trail where many people can be seen running, biking, rollerblading, and skateboarding throughout the day. In January 2020, residents demanded new restrictions for Bayshore after a man was killed by a drunk driver not long after a racing incident on the street killed a mother and her child.
What Are Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents?
Inattentive driving and inattentive pedestrians are the most common causes of pedestrian accidents. Getting hit by a car is one of the most traumatizing experiences you could ever have. But how do these accidents even happen? And how can you avoid them to stay safe?
In the United States, some common causes of pedestrian crashes are:
- distracted driving (eating, cell phone use, looking for something, working on GPS, etc)
- aggressive driving
- drivers being confused or lost
- bad weather conditions
- pedestrians not wearing visible clothing
- altered walkways from construction areas
Pedestrians should remain aware of these areas where accidents can happen and keep safe by staying in compliance with Florida state laws. For instance, a pedestrian can be found liable for their injuries if they get hit by a car after ignoring a crosswalk, disrupting traffic, or failing to follow a walk signal.
One of the main causes of pedestrian injuries that we’ve seen is vehicles turning on a red light without checking for people crossing. Unfortunately, these kinds of accidents are preventable and can lead to serious injuries or even death. Have you been hurt after being hit by a car? Call us as soon as possible to protect your right to recover at 813.755.9500 or visit our website to talk to an attorney for free about your case.
What Are My Rights As A Pedestrian in Florida?
Whether or not there is a crossing signal, pedestrians usually have the right of way when they step out into a crosswalk. However, a person walking can be found at least partially at fault for their injuries if they are not in a crosswalk and decide to step in front of approaching traffic to cross the street. This is commonly called ‘jaywalking’ and it can hurt your chances of fully recovering for pain and suffering and/or accident expenses.
What Should I Do If I Was Hit As A Pedestrian?
If your body is ever hit by a car or motorcycle while you are near a roadway, there are some important things you can do afterward. These actions could help you win a lawsuit later on, especially if you are injured.
After a pedestrian accident:
- call the police
- take pictures of the damage and your bodily injuries
- do not apologize or discuss who was at fault
- exchange information with the other driver and any witnesses
- if you were hurt or you’re not sure, seek medical attention immediately
- get a copy of the accident report before you leave the scene
- call a personal injury attorney as soon as possible
If you’ve been hurt in an accident, an attorney with experience in property damage and car accident cases can discuss your situation with you, no matter how complicated it may seem. We have experience standing up for hurt victims and getting them compensated. Call our office at 813.755.9500 or go online to get a totally free review of your case today.
What Can A Personal Injury Attorney Do For Me?
When you are completely exposed to crash impact, an accident can result in devastating damage for you and just minimal damage to the car and driver. Your injuries and expenses after could be life-changing, and it is only right for you to want justice.
Many accident victims are unsure about whether or not to get an attorney, especially while going through such a hard and painful time. That is completely understandable, but lawyers know the legal side of recovering from accident losses, which can benefit you in some major ways. Hiring an attorney you trust can maximize your compensation, give you peace of mind, and help you return to your life.
Trial Attorney Martin J. Hernandez can build a legal case for you to hold the at-fault party responsible–not only for your financial losses, but for the pain and suffering you’ve had to go through. To learn more about what your claim might be worth, call us at 813.755.9500 or find us online to set up your free consultation.
