Compared to any other type of accident on our roadways, pedestrian accidents are among the most severe. Almost everybody will be a pedestrian at some point or another, whether you are walking around the city or just through a parking lot. Other drivers are supposed to watch out for the safety of others when they are navigating our roads. However, even with safety measures in place, many pedestrians will be struck by passenger vehicles. In 2018, there was a 3% increase in the amount of pedestrian fatalities. Because of this, more precautions must be taken.

There are many common causes of pedestrian accidents on our roadways. By understanding the many ways that these accidents occur, we can work to prevent them at all costs.

Reasons for Pedestrian Accidents on Florida Roads

Improper Lane Usage: Many pedestrian accidents occur every year when drivers are not abiding by the rules of the road and staying in their lanes. Two-thirds of these horrific accidents occur on city streets. When a driver crosses their lane for any reason, they could force a pedestrian onto the road and put their lives in danger.

Improperly Marked Crosswalks: Intersections are also hotspots for pedestrian accidents that occur every year. When pedestrians abide by the rules of a crosswalk, these accidents are less likely to happen. It is important that cities introduce pedestrian crosswalks so that drivers are more likely to stop for these vulnerable parties. 

Left-Hand Turns: Most of the pedestrian accidents that occur at intersections happen when a vehicle is turning left, as they might be less likely to see a pedestrian crossing the street. Drivers are sometimes so busy negotiating an intersection that they do not notice the pedestrian crossing the street. 

Texting and Driving: Many pedestrian accidents occur when drivers or pedestrians themselves are utilizing phones while driving or walking. When somebody is using a phone on the roadways, they are less likely to see dangers around them. 

Quiet Vehicles: Quiet vehicles are good to have in some ways; however, they are less likely to be heard by pedestrians as well. Pedestrians are most likely to use their ears to navigate the roads and, if they do not hear a vehicle approaching, they are more likely to become involved in a serious accident. 

Dark Clothing: Approximately 70% of pedestrian accidents occur at night. When the sun goes down, pedestrians wearing dark clothing are no longer visible. This means that they are most likely to become harmed in a serious collision. 

Drinking and Driving: Drivers who are using alcohol are less likely to pay close attention to the roads around them and will not have the same perception as other drivers. This means that drunk drivers are more likely to cause accidents involving pedestrians.

Speaking with an Attorney Following a Pedestrian Accident

Pedestrian accidents sometimes lead to life-altering results, some of which are catastrophic and even fatal in nature. If you have been harmed in one of these collisions, you will need the dedicated and compassionate help of a personal injury attorney on your side. At Sheftall & Associates, our accident attorneys are dedicated to assisting you every step of the way as you navigate the legal system. Please contact our attorneys in Florida to find out how we can assist you at 904-647-2296.