Unfortunately, pedestrian accidents are too common in Vero Beach and Florida. The warm climate and numerous tourist attractions draw millions of visitors to the state each year, and many of these visitors travel by foot. Unfortunately, this means that pedestrian accidents are frequent, with devastating consequences for the individuals involved and their families.
At Fetterman & Associates, PA, we understand the devastating impact a pedestrian accident can have on an individual’s life. We are dedicated to providing our clients with the support and legal representation they need to navigate the complex legal process and recover the compensation they deserve. Our experienced Vero Beach injury attorneys have a proven track record of successfully handling pedestrian accident cases and are committed to fighting for our client’s rights.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a pedestrian accident in Vero Beach, seeking legal representation as soon as possible is essential. Our team of attorneys can help you understand your legal rights and options and provide the support you need to recover from your injuries. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and learn more about how we can help you.
Pedestrian Accident Statistics Vero Beach, Florida
According to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV), there were a total of 146 pedestrian crashes in Indian River County, which includes Vero Beach, in 2020. These accidents resulted in 133 injuries and 13 fatalities.
In 2019, there were 157 pedestrian crashes in Indian River County, resulting in 136 injuries and 14 fatalities.
These statistics highlight the serious risk pedestrians face when walking in Vero Beach and the importance of taking precautions to prevent pedestrian accidents. It’s essential to be aware of your surroundings and follow traffic laws when walking, especially when crossing roads or intersections.
Understanding Pedestrian Laws in Vero Beach
Pedestrians and drivers are responsible for knowing and following the laws to help prevent accidents and keep everyone safe. Essential laws to know in Vero Beach related to pedestrians include the following:
- Pedestrians have the right of way in crosswalks: Drivers are required by law to yield to pedestrians crossing in a marked or unmarked crosswalk. Pedestrians should also use caution and look both ways before crossing the road.
- Use of sidewalks: Pedestrians are required to use sidewalks when they are available. For areas where sidewalks are non-existent, pedestrians must remain on the left side of the roadway, facing oncoming traffic.
- No jaywalking: Pedestrians are prohibited from crossing the road outside a marked crosswalk or intersection. Doing so can result in a citation and increase the risk of accidents.
- Traffic signals: Pedestrians should obey traffic signals at intersections and crosswalks. Waiting for the signal to change to the walk sign before crossing the road is important.
- Be visible: Pedestrians should wear bright or reflective clothing and carry a flashlight when walking at night to make themselves more visible to drivers.
Understanding these laws can help prevent pedestrian accidents and ensure the safety of everyone on the road.
Where Are Pedestrian Accidents in Vero Beach Most Likely to Occur?
Pedestrian accidents can occur in many locations in Vero Beach, but some areas are more likely to be the site of an accident than others. Here are some of the most common locations for pedestrian accidents in Vero Beach:
- Intersections: Pedestrian accidents are more likely to occur at intersections, especially those with heavy traffic or multiple lanes.
- Crosswalks: Pedestrians crossing the street in a crosswalk are at increased risk of being hit by a vehicle.
- Highways and busy roads: Pedestrians walking along highways or busy roads are at increased risk of being hit by a vehicle, especially if there is no sidewalk or shoulder for them to walk on.
- Parking lots: Pedestrians in parking lots are at increased risk of being hit by a vehicle, especially if drivers are distracted or not paying attention.
- Residential areas: Pedestrian accidents can also occur in residential areas, especially those with heavy foot traffic or where drivers are not used to seeing pedestrians.
It’s important to be cautious and alert when walking near traffic, especially in these areas.
Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents
Pedestrian accidents can be caused by various factors, many of which are preventable. Some common causes of pedestrian accidents in Vero Beach include:
- Distracted driving: Drivers distracted by their phones, GPS devices, or other distractions are likelier to hit pedestrians.
- Failure to yield: Drivers who fail to yield to pedestrians in crosswalks or intersections can cause serious accidents.
- Speeding: Drivers who are speeding may not have enough time to stop or swerve to avoid hitting a pedestrian.
- Driving under the influence: Drivers under the influence of drugs or alcohol have impaired judgment and are more likely to cause accidents.
- Poor visibility: Pedestrians walking in poorly lit areas or wearing dark clothing may be more difficult for drivers to see, increasing the risk of accidents.
- Road conditions: Poor road conditions, such as uneven pavement or debris on the road, can also contribute to pedestrian accidents.
It’s important to be aware of these common causes of pedestrian accidents and take steps to prevent them.
Injuries Caused by Vero Beach Pedestrian Accidents
Pedestrian accidents in Vero Beach can result in many injuries, ranging from minor cuts and bruises to severe, life-threatening injuries. Some common injuries that pedestrians may sustain in an accident include:
- Fractures and broken bones: Pedestrians may suffer fractures or broken bones due to being hit by a vehicle.
- Head and brain injuries: Head injuries are a common result of pedestrian accidents, ranging from minor concussions to more severe traumatic brain injuries (TBI).
- Spinal cord injuries: Pedestrians may suffer spinal cord injuries, resulting in permanent paralysis or loss of function.
- Internal injuries: Pedestrians may suffer internal injuries, such as internal bleeding, organ damage, or other injuries that are not immediately visible.
- Soft tissue injuries: Soft tissue injuries, such as sprains, strains, and contusions, are also common in pedestrian accidents.
These injuries can be serious and require extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation. If you or a loved one has been involved in a pedestrian accident in Vero Beach, seeking medical attention immediately is important.
Proving Liability in a Pedestrian Accident
Proving liability in a pedestrian accident can be a complex process. To establish liability, the injured pedestrian must be able to demonstrate that the vehicle’s driver was negligent in some way and that this negligence directly caused the accident and resulting injuries.
Here are some key steps that a Vero Beach pedestrian accident attorney can take to establish liability in a pedestrian accident case:
Investigate the Accident
Our attorneys will thoroughly investigate the accident scene, collecting witness statements, examining physical evidence, and reviewing police reports.
Gather Medical Evidence
Medical records and documentation can help demonstrate the severity and extent of the pedestrian’s injuries, which can help establish the damages suffered due to the accident.
Evaluate Driver Behavior
The attorney will review the driver’s behavior leading up to the accident, including looking for evidence of distracted driving, speeding, or other negligent behavior.
Review Traffic Laws
The attorney will review traffic laws and regulations to determine whether the driver violated any laws or regulations that may have contributed to the accident.
Expert Testimony
In some cases, expert testimony may be necessary to establish liability. For example, accident reconstruction experts can provide a detailed analysis of the accident to help determine who was at fault.
Establishing liability in a pedestrian accident can be complex and challenging, but our Vero Beach pedestrian attorneys can help.
Damages You Can Recover in a Pedestrian Accident
If you have been involved in a pedestrian accident in Vero Beach, you may be entitled to recover damages to compensate you for your losses.
The specific damages you receive depend on the circumstances of your case. Some of the damages commonly awarded in pedestrian accident cases include the following:
- Medical expenses: This includes any medical bills you incur as a result of the accident, including hospitalization, surgery, medications, physical therapy, and other related costs.
- Lost wages: If your injuries prevent you from working, you may be entitled to recover lost wages for the time you cannot work.
- Pain and suffering: This includes compensation for physical and emotional pain and suffering you experienced due to the accident.
- Property damage: If any of your personal property, such as clothing or personal items, was damaged in the accident, you may be entitled to recover the cost of repairs or replacement.
- Future expenses: If your injuries are severe and will require ongoing medical treatment or will prevent you from working, you may be entitled to recover damages for future medical expenses and lost earnings.
Our attorneys will help you understand your legal rights and options for recovering damages after a pedestrian accident.
Our Legal Team at Fetterman & Associates Can Help with Your Pedestrian Accident Claim
If you or a loved one has been involved in a pedestrian accident in Vero Beach, it’s important to seek legal representation from a knowledgeable attorney who can help you navigate the complex legal process and recover the compensation you deserve. At Fetterman & Associates, PA, our legal team has a proven track record of success in handling pedestrian accident cases and fighting for our client’s rights.
We understand the devastating impact a pedestrian accident can have on an individual’s life. We are committed to providing our clients with the support and legal representation they need to recover from their injuries. From investigating the accident to establishing liability and negotiating with insurance companies, we will be with you every step of the way to ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve.
If you or a loved one has been involved in a pedestrian accident in Vero Beach, don’t wait to seek legal help. Contact Fetterman & Associates, PA, today to schedule a free consultation and learn more about how we can help with your pedestrian accident claim.
