Thousands of pedestrians and bicyclist are injured or killed by negligent motorists
Florida is blessed with the beautiful weather and warm climate that makes so many people want to spend time outside. Unfortunately, it also has some of the highest rates of personal injury claims from pedestrian and bicycle accidents.
The top four U.S. metropolitan areas that are ranked the most dangerous for pedestrians are all located in Florida: Orlando-Kissimmee, Tampa-St. Petersburg-Clearwater, Jacksonville and Miami-Fort Lauderdale-Pompano Beach.
Throughout the state, pedestrian fatality rates are almost double the national average, while bicycle fatality rates are almost triple, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) Traffic Safety Facts Report.
Even though Florida only accounts for 6 percent of the U.S. population, it is responsible for 11 percent of the country’s pedestrian fatalities and 17 percent of bicycle fatalities.
Data from NHTSA shows that pedestrian accidents account for around 500 deaths, 2,000 hospitalizations and 7,500 emergency room trips in Florida every year. What’s more, despite the large number of vacationers who visit the state throughout the year, almost 90 percent of victims were residents.
Pedestrians and bicyclists are more likely to be seriously injured or killed because they have no protection on the road. Unlike drivers and occupants in motor vehicles, there is no metal cage to shield them from impact.
Vital Statistics information compiled from death records in the state reveal that around 40 percent of fatalities were due to injuries on multiple parts of the body, while slightly over 30 percent were due solely to traumatic brain injuries.
Statewide and federal efforts to raise awareness about pedestrian and bicycle safety have made marginal progress, but car and truck drivers still need to be more attentive to their surroundings.
Florida consistently ranks as one of the worst states for traffic accidents, unfortunately it seems that is directly connected with how dangerous it is for anyone walking or bicycling near the roadway.
The cumulative cost of personal injury across the state is around $8 billion, according the Department of Health. That equals tens of thousands, even hundreds of thousands in medical bills for every injured person.
The median cost just for admission to the hospital in Florida is almost $45,000. When you factor in long term rehabilitative care, reduced work productivity and the impact on your well being, an injury can easily cost well into the millions of dollars. This kind of financial blow can ruin lives and destroy families.
Florida law states that parties are liable for damages if a victim is harmed due to that party’s actions, negligence, inaction or wrongful acts. One of the most common causes of a pedestrian or bicycle accident is a negligent motorist.
Fetterman & Associates knows all the ins and outs of personal injury law and is prepared to fight for the justice and the compensation you deserve. They have over 40 years of experience recovering money for victims just like you.
Also Read: Safety And Legal Tips For Palm Beach Bicyclists
Call a West Palm Beach Personal Injury Lawyers Today
Your initial consultation is free, so there is no risk in scheduling an appointment to ask any questions you may have. The Fetterman & Associates team is passionate about helping victims of personal injury rebuild their lives.
They are with you all the way through this difficult time, so you and your family do not have to feel so alone and overwhelmed. Call today to schedule your free consultation and take that critical step in your recovery process.
Learn 4 Important Questions Bicyclists And Pedestrians Should Ask: https://lawteam.com/2016/02/17/questions-bicyclists-and-pedestrians-should-ask/