Everyone is a pedestrian at some point throughout the day. Whether walking from the parking lot into the grocery store or from the parking garage to your office, we all have to do it. But unfortunately, South Florida pedestrian accident injuries and fatalities continue to be a serious problem. According to estimates, there were 6,205 pedestrian deaths and 76,000 pedestrian injuries nationwide in 2019.
Regardless of their preference for transportation, everyone at some point is a pedestrian. Therefore, having safe driving behaviors and maintaining safe speeds create a more comfortable walking environment for you, your family, and friends.
What Causes Pedestrian Accidents?
Several factors can lead to a pedestrian accident. A similar number of contributing factors also applies to accidents involving two vehicles. Some of these causes of pedestrian accidents include:
- Not paying attention
- Distracted driving
- Aggressive driving
- Driving under the influence
- Poor road conditions
- Visibility issues
It is important for both drivers and pedestrians to be aware of their surroundings when sharing the road. The introduction of new technologies has made drivers and pedestrians equally distracted. Using a cell phone while driving or crossing can have fatal consequences. An accident between a vehicle and a pedestrian can sometimes be caused by the design of the road.
The combination of multiple lanes of traffic and roadside parking, and curvy or hilly areas can make visibility difficult for drivers and pedestrians alike. You should speak with an injury attorney in South Florida about whether there is a reason to pursue a claim if you or a loved one has been injured in an accident that could have been prevented by better road design.
Does Being A Pedestrian Put You At Risk?
There are many reasons why people walk. Walking is good exercise for some, it’s a popular method for commuting around town for others, and it’s also often the best mode of transportation for those without a vehicle. However, no matter the reason, choosing to travel by foot comes with some risks.
Remember to always keep your surroundings in mind when you’re walking. The human body can’t withstand a collision with a vehicle. In pedestrian accidents, cars are bigger and heavier than people, which contributes to the high death rate.
The number of pedestrian deaths has risen dramatically in the past few years. A pedestrian struck by a motor vehicle has a much higher chance of being fatally injured than a person inside the vehicle. People on foot have no protection from the physical forces unleashed by accidents and their environment.
Does Insurance cover South Florida Pedestrians?
A driver’s Personal Injury Protection usually covers pedestrians hit by a car. However, the amount of insurance required can vary depending on who is responsible for the accident and whether the driver has sufficient insurance.
7 Walking Safety Tips For Pedestrians
Pedestrian accidents can often be prevented with a few simple steps taken by all parties involved, as with any other type of accident. Following are some tips to avoid a South Florida pedestrian accident while walking.
- Obey traffic signs and obey the rules of the road.
- When possible, walk on the sidewalks.
- Walk facing traffic and as far away from traffic as possible if there is no sidewalk.
- Cross streets at intersections or crosswalks. Pay attention to all traffic directions, including left and right turns.
- A well-lit area where you have a clear view of traffic is best if a crosswalk or intersection is not available. When crossing, watch for gaps in traffic and wait for enough time to cross safely.
- Be alert for vehicles entering or leaving driveways or backing up in parking lots.
- Avoid drinking and using drugs when walking; they impair your judgment and ability.
Keep yourself safe when walking near moving automobiles by following these simple tips.
8 Pedestrian Safety Tips for Drivers
- Watch out for pedestrians everywhere you go.
- Use extra caution when driving in difficult conditions, such as at night or in bad weather.
- When turning or entering a crosswalk, slow down and prepare to stop.
- Stop well back from crosswalks to allow other vehicles to see the crossing pedestrians and halt accordingly.
- Avoid passing stopped vehicles at crosswalks. People may be crossing where you cannot see them.
- Don’t drink or take drugs while driving.
- Be especially cautious when driving near people on the street, schools, and neighborhoods with children.
- Watch out for pedestrians when reversing.
Conclusion
Pedestrians and automobile accidents are on the rise. Many factors contribute to pedestrian accidents, such as recklessness, distraction, and negligence.
If you’ve been injured in a South Florida pedestrian accident, you should speak with an experienced personal injury attorney as soon as possible. Contact us online or call our office directly at (561) 806-5229 to schedule your free case evaluation.
