Florida’s Pedestrian Safety Crisis: How to Protect Yourself and Your Loved Ones

Florida’s Pedestrian Safety Crisis: How to Protect Yourself and Your Loved Ones

Published On July 21, 2023

Pedestrian Accident Lawyer

Florida holds a troubling position as one of the most perilous states for pedestrians in the United States. The latest annual Spotlight report from the Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA) titled “Pedestrian Traffic Fatalities by State: 2022 Preliminary Data” presents a comprehensive analysis of pedestrian death trends for the year 2022 at both state and national levels. Shockingly, the report projects a staggering 7,508 fatalities resulting from drivers striking pedestrians in 2022, marking the highest number of pedestrian deaths since 1981. This alarming statistic translates to an average of 20 pedestrian fatalities every day, underscoring the urgent need for heightened attention and immediate action to address this critical issue.

Specifically, Florida ranked third among states with the highest number of pedestrian-related fatal crashes in 2022, according to the GHSA report. With 824 pedestrian deaths in 2022, Florida accounted for a significant 11% of the total pedestrian fatalities in the country. This disconcerting data reveals that only California (1100) and Texas (826) experienced more pedestrian fatalities than Florida. The report also revealed that Florida had a pedestrian fatality rate of 3.7 per 100,000 people, which was higher than the national average of 2.28 per 100,000 people. Only Arizona and New Mexico had a higher rate, with 4.4 and 4.17 deaths per 100,000 people. This data highlights the severity of the problem and emphasizes the importance of implementing effective measures to enhance pedestrian safety in the state.

What Causes Florida’s Pedestrian Safety Crisis?

There are many factors that can contribute to pedestrian accidents in Florida, motor vehicle driver negligence being one. Many drivers fail to follow the traffic rules, drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs, speed, run red lights or stop signs, text or talk on the phone while driving, or fail to yield the right of way to pedestrians at crosswalks or intersections.

How Can You Prevent Pedestrian Accidents in Florida?

Preventing pedestrian accidents in Florida is crucial for ensuring road safety. Both drivers and pedestrians can take simple but effective measures to reduce the risk of accidents. For drivers, it’s essential to obey speed limits and traffic signals, avoid driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, and refrain from distractions like texting or talking on the phone. Drivers should always be alert and watch out for pedestrians, yielding the right of way at crosswalks and intersections, and never passing a vehicle stopped for a pedestrian. Giving pedestrians enough space and time to cross safely is also essential.

How Can You Seek Monetary Compensation for a Pedestrian Accident in Florida?

If you or a loved one has been involved in a pedestrian accident in Florida, seeking justice and compensation is possible through a personal injury or wrongful death claim against the responsible party. Recoverable damages may include medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, disability, disfigurement, loss of quality of life, funeral expenses, and loss of consortium. However, pursuing such a claim can be complex, requiring evidence of negligence and damages. To navigate the process effectively, it’s crucial to enlist the assistance of an experienced personal injury attorney who can handle your case with professionalism and compassion. An experienced personal injury attorney will investigate the accident, negotiate with insurance companies, and, if necessary, represent you in court to seek the maximum compensation you deserve for your injuries and losses.

Pedestrian Accident Attorney Near Me

Pedestrian accidents have the potential to inflict severe injuries or even fatalities upon victims, leading to immense emotional and financial strain for their families. We recognize the profound physical, emotional, and financial toll a pedestrian accident can take on you and your loved ones. As a result, our unwavering commitment at Todd Miner Law is to provide you with personalized attention, honest guidance, and vigorous representation. To schedule an appointment with one of our experienced car accident lawyers, you can reach us at 407-214-4743  or through our online form.

Categories


Author

Todd Miner

Todd Miner is the Senior Trial Attorney & Managing Attorney at Todd Miner Law®️. A Florida native, Todd's journey in law began at the University of Central Florida, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in political science. He then obtained his Juris Doctor degree from Nova Southeastern University, Shepard Broad College of Law. With a background as an Assistant State Attorney and experience in insurance defense, Todd brings over three decades of legal expertise to his practice, focusing on complex personal injury cases. He is dedicated to advocating for his clients and ensuring they receive the compensation they deserve.

Related Posts

PEDESTRIAN ACCIDENTS SPIKE IN 2016, STATISTICS SHOW

Pedestrian accidents are known for their overwhelming potential for catastrophic outcomes. Because they have no protection against passenger cars and

View Article

FLORIDA HIGHWAY PATROL LAUNCHES HIT & RUN CAMPAIGN DUE TO AN INCREASE IN CRASHES

Last month, the Florida Highway Patrol’s (FHP) Orlando office hosted an event for a new statewide awareness campaign about the dangers of hit-and-r

View Article

AUTO FATALITIES UP IN CENTRAL FLORIDA

The Orlando Sentinel has reported that traffic deaths have dramatically increased in Central Florida and throughout the nation since 2015,

View Article