Negligent Drivers at Fault for Pedestrian Deaths and Injuries in Florida

Sadly, everyday unwary pedestrians are injured or killed by negligent drivers in South Florida and throughout the nation. With so many distractions, is it any wonder drivers can be so careless? Obviously, pedestrians are at greater risk of death when being struck by a moving vehicle than are those inside of another vehicle.

Drivers can be negligent in many ways that would likely distract them from focusing on the road and on pedestrians. These include, but are not limited to, the following:

Putting on makeup
Eating or drinking
Texting while driving
Talking on the phone
Changing the radio station
Reading a newspaper
Conversing with a passenger
Dealing with crying babies and other child issues
Driving under the influence of drugs (illegal or prescribed)
Driving under the influence of alcohol

Pedestrian Fatalities in Florida

According to the Brevard County Reporter (2011), in 2009 alone, Florida pedestrian deaths were ranked as second in the nation, with California as number one. In fact, pedestrian deaths in just four out of fifty states (Florida, California, Texas, and New York) account for 41% of all pedestrian deaths in the United States.

Even though some pedestrians are at fault for stepping out onto the street before the light has allowed them to safely cross the street, drivers have got to be more careful in Florida. The year-round warm weather means that more pedestrians will be outdoors than in other states. Therefore, it is imperative than drivers be mindful of South Florida pedestrians.

Risk of Injuries to Pedestrians in Florida

According to the U.S. Department of Justice, most pedestrians are at risk of injury between the times of 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. There is increased traffic between 3 to 6 p.m., which is when the bulk of these accidents occur. After dark, more pedestrians are at risk of death because of poor visibility or drunken driving. 60% of these accidents happen at places other than intersections, where it is relatively safe for pedestrians to cross.

Injuries caused by a negligent driver in Florida could cause the injured pedestrian to miss work and suffer lost wages in addition to their pain and suffering. Additionally, pedestrian accidents in South Florida can turn deadly. If someone you love was killed in a pedestrian accident by a negligent Florida driver, you may be able to pursue a wrongful death lawsuit and collect the compensation your family deserves. For more information about your rights, talk to a skilled Broward County wrongful death attorney at the Law Offices of David Benenfeld today for a free legal consultation at 866-9 HELP NOW or 866-943-5766.

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David M. Benenfeld, P.A.
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