Miami Accident Lawyer Blog
Miami is a vibrant city known for its sunny weather, beaches, and walkable neighborhoods. Unfortunately, in an urban area with an ever-growing population, pedestrian accidents are a serious concern in South Florida. The state has consistently ranked high in pedestrian fatalities nationwide, and statistics from the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHWMV) are proof. Every year, there are almost 11,000 pedestrian accidents statewide, leading to around 785 fatalities and injuries to almost 8,150 victims. Of these, more than 3,650 collisions involving people on foot take place in Broward, Miami-Dade, and Palm Beach Counties.
You are no doubt feeling overwhelmed and unsure of what to do if you have been involved in a collision while walking in South Florida. Because of the physical, emotional, and financial impacts, it is important to get help from a Miami pedestrian accident attorney to enforce your rights. You can learn more about how to protect yourself by reviewing some basic information.
Top Three Reasons Behind Pedestrian Accidents
Negligence is usually the reason people on foot are struck by motorists; they breach the duty to exercise reasonable care behind the wheel. Some specific causes of pedestrian collisions include:
1. Distracted driving is a major threat to pedestrian safety. Texting, talking on the phone, using navigation apps, or even eating while driving can divert a driver’s attention for a critical moment, leading to devastating consequences.
2. Miami’s busy streets can tempt drivers to exceed the speed limit, a form of negligence that significantly increases the severity of a pedestrian accident. It reduces a driver’s reaction time and the distance needed to stop safely.
3. Left-turn accidents are particularly common, despite the fact that drivers turning left must yield the right-of-way to pedestrians in crosswalks. Failing to yield or misjudging the distance of a pedestrian can result in a serious collision.
Protect Yourself From Injuries
One of the most important tips you can use to stay safe is to ensure that you remain alert at all times while walking. In addition:
- Avoid distractions like headphones or cell phones while walking.
- Be aware of your surroundings and make eye contact with drivers at intersections.
- Always use designated pedestrian areas when available. If there are no sidewalks, walk on the left side of the road facing traffic.
- Always wait for the pedestrian walk signal before crossing, even if there are gaps in traffic.
- Wear bright clothing or reflective gear, especially at night or in low-light conditions.
If you are involved in a pedestrian accident, take action to protect your rights. Make sure to report the accident and take photos of the scene, as well as your injuries and any damage.
Our Miami Pedestrian Accident Lawyers are Ready to Help
Though this information is useful, trust an experienced attorney to help you understand your legal rights after being hurt while walking. The Gerson & Schwartz, PA team is committed to protecting your interests, so please call (305) 371-6000 or go online to schedule a no-cost consultation. We serve pedestrian accident victims throughout South Florida from our offices in Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and West Palm Beach, FL.