More people are realizing the benefits of walking and taking in the sunshine on roads and walkways throughout Florida.
It looks as though there could be a downside to all of that walking, especially if car drivers are not paying attention and slam into a pedestrian.
If this happens, a pedestrian might be looking at time in the hospital and many different medical conditions post-accident.
As data from the first half of 2015 indicated, preliminary state traffic fatality data pinpoints Florida as one of the worst states in the country for pedestrian accidents.
The study and report was compiled by the Governor’s Highway Safety Association.
Walker’s deaths have increased as the price of gas has dropped and motorists begin to put more miles on their vehicles than ever before.
Pedestrians might be hurt quite easily when a car strikes them, even if the car was moving at relatively low speed.
pedestrians who have been injured in a car accident like this may be entitled to file a personal injury claim in Florida.
One of the most important things you can do for your case is to reach out to a personal injury attorney in Florida immediately after your pedestrian accident if a driver is not paying attention or if he or she is driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol, for example, you may be entitled to recover compensation for your injuries.
You should never minimize the impact of potential injuries, as many pedestrians discover that their life is never the same after an accident.
Thankfully, you can protect yourself after having a conversation with an experienced pedestrian accident attorney.
Why More People are Walking
The economy improving was a factor in putting more people behind the wheel of cars and putting pedestrians at higher risk.
The report also identified that distracted driving was one of the most common issues involved in fatal pedestrian accidents.
Shorter winters and warmer weather, along with an enhanced awareness of the health benefits of walking may be encouraging people to walk more at the same time that better economic benefits are encouraging people to drive more.
Four large population states across the U.S. including Texas, New York, California and Florida accounted for more than 40% of pedestrian fatalities in the first half of 2015 alone.
Florida and Pedestrian Fatalities
Florida had the highest rate of pedestrian deaths for every 100,000 residents. Almost 75% of pedestrian deaths involving vehicles have been after dark.
One-third of those individuals killed had been drinking alcohol prior to the accident, according to research from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
Approximately, 15% of motorists involved in those accidents also had a blood alcohol content at the legal limit or higher.
Pedestrians can do their part by being aware of their surroundings and always sticking to crosswalks and following all road rules and laws.
Also Read : BEING A “PEDEXTRIAN” COULD GET YOU INJURED
Why Drivers Must Be Aware of Pedestrians Fatalities
However, it is also the responsibility of drivers to constantly be scanning their horizon for potential pedestrians and always giving pedestrians the right of way.
Vehicle accidents involving pedestrians often leave behind gruesome and catastrophic injuries for the victim, regardless of the speed the vehicle was going.
The sheer size and weight of a vehicle slamming into a person and throwing him or her into oncoming traffic or other obstacles can change a pedestrian victim’s life forever.
Many of the injuries associated with a pedestrian accident will require a long recovery period.
Most will require painkillers, physical therapy, or even surgery.
Even with comprehensive health insurance coverage, this can become a financial challenge for an accident victim. Faced with
Talk to West Palm Beach Personal Injury Lawyer to Discuss Your Case
If you or someone you love has recently been injured in a Florida pedestrian Fatalities accident due to another person’s failure to pay attention or driving under the influence, you may be entitled to fight for compensation.
It is very common for pedestrian Fatalities accident injuries to cost more than the personal injury protection threshold in Florida, which is why you need to consult with a personal injury lawyer as soon as possible to protect your rights.