Most reported pedestrian accidents are linked to the negligent actions of drivers who fail to watch for pedestrians, share the road with them, or respect a pedestrian’s right of way. Some of the most common causes of pedestrian crashes in Florida include:
- Failing to check for pedestrians in crosswalks
- Failing to stop
- Speeding
- Driving under the influence
- Distracted driving
- Limited visibility
- Making a turn without checking surroundings
- Illegal U-turns
- Defective roadway conditions
Though reckless drivers are more likely to cause a crash, pedestrians may also be at fault. Data from the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles reveals that dozens of pedestrian accidents were a result of a pedestrian under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
If you were hurt in an accident, contact pedestrian accident lawyer Justin Weinstein for a free review of your claim. You may be entitled to compensation.
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Of all the 2015 Florida pedestrian accidents, 7,870 led to injuries and 632 were fatal. Some accident injuries a pedestrian might experience include:
- Road rash
- Broken bones
- Traumatic brain injury
- Facial or dental injuries
- Internal injuries
Despite vehicle technology improvements and road infrastructure changes, these types of accidents still happen. Pedestrians should know their rights and how to hold drivers liable after a pedestrian collision.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, Florida is one of the most dangerous states for pedestrians. Florida has the third-highest number of fatalities. Between 2014 and 2015, pedestrian fatalities in Florida increased by 18%. Between 2015 and 2016, pedestrian crashes grew by another 2.79%, while pedestrian fatalities rose by 1.72%.
Smart Growth America, an organization that advocates for walkable cities, listed the South Florida as the 11th worst area for pedestrians. Of the 10 most dangerous metro areas for walking in the U.S., eight were in South Florida.
There are a few avenues your pedestrian accident attorney may explore to collect damages. Personal injury protection (PIP) benefits, a claim for uninsured or underinsured motorists, or a lawsuit. Damages can also be covered by the other driver’s bodily injury coverage if the other driver has been found at fault for the accident.
PIP benefits are paid as part of Florida’s no-fault insurance requirements. You may be entitled to up to $10,000 in insurance benefits if you have auto insurance. Otherwise, you can collect PIP benefits from the driver’s insurance company. However, you must have your injuries documented within 14 days of the accident to qualify for PIP benefits.
If the driver fled the scene, does not have insurance, or does not have enough insurance, you may seek an uninsured or underinsured motorist claim through your own insurance company.
