Pedestrian accidents can occur for a number of reasons, such as a driver not paying attention, a pedestrian crossing outside of a crosswalk, a speeding driver, or a driver being under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Injuries incurred in a pedestrian accident vary depending on the severity of the crash. They can range from cuts and bruises to broken bones and even death.
National Highway Traffic Safety Commission’s pedestrian accident stats
The National Highway Traffic Safety Commission recently posted statistics showing some very sobering information for 2020.
- 6,516 people were killed pedestrian-related accidents.
- 55,000 pedestrians were injured nationwide.
- A pedestrian was killed every 81 minutes in traffic crashes.
- Florida is one of the 5 top U.S. states with the highest number of pedestrian accidents.
How to stay safe as a pedestrian
The rule of thumb to staying safe as a pedestrian is, “Stop, look, and listen, and look both ways”.
Pedestrians should always walk facing traffic; cross only at crosswalks, or other designated areas; wear light reflective clothing when walking at night, dusk or dawn; obey traffic signals; and when available, walk on sidewalks.
What are Florida’s pedestrian laws?
Florida’s laws apply both to pedestrians and motor vehicles, with an emphasis on protecting the pedestrian. For a complete view of the Florida laws relating to pedestrians, click on Florida Statutes 316.130.
Liability in some pedestrian accidents is not clear
Sometimes who is fault in a pedestrian accident is very clear. Other times, however, it is murky. If a pedestrian is hit by a car crossing in the middle of a street (jaywalking), that pedestrian is at fault.
However, if there is an obstruction, like a tree or hedge that prevents the driver and pedestrian from seeing each other at a proper crosswalk, who is at fault?
Only a qualified personal injury attorney would be able to determine which, if any parties were at fault.
If you are a pedestrian who has been injured in an accident, it is important to seek medical attention right away. You should also contact an experienced personal injury lawyer to discuss your legal options.
If you suffered injuries in a pedestrian accident, you might be entitled to rightful compensation. If you’d like a Miami personal injury attorney from Julian Rudolph Law to evaluate your case, please send us an email or call (305) 300-2702. Our consultations are free.