Ways Pedestrians and Motorists Can Minimize Pedestrian Accidents in Florida

Pedestrians are some of the most vulnerable roadway users due to their lack of protection in the event of traffic accidents. Sadly, pedestrian deaths have remained high and have actually increased 15 percent nationwide since 2009. In 2013, 4,735 pedestrians were killed, which is about one pedestrian death per two hours, according to a new report from the Governors Highway Safety Administration (GHSA).

Because of these tragic fatalities, the GHSA has issued a report that outlines steps to help states address the problem of pedestrian safety. In the report, Everyone Walks Understanding and Addressing Pedestrian Safety, there are 21 key points that can help minimize pedestrian-involved motor vehicle crashes.

The GHSA does a good job in the report of reminding everyone that we are all pedestrians at some point, but, unfortunately, walking isn’t always safe. Because of this, it is important that motorists and pedestrians are still educated about ways to keep pedestrians safe, and states and cites need to work to address the problem. Some of the report’s key points include:

• Pedestrians need to stop using cell phones while walking, as distracted walking has been a factor in a number of pedestrian fatalities.
• Motorists need to move over when they see cars broken down, reduce speeds in school zones, minimize distractions, and stop getting behind the wheel impaired.
• States and cities need to decrease speeds in known areas that have pedestrian-motor vehicle crashes and educate the public more about pedestrian safety.

Fortunately, traffic safety officials in Florida are already doing a great job of addressing pedestrian safety, with the campaign, Alert Today, Alive Tomorrow, by asking drivers, “What happens when a distracted driver runs into a distracted pedestrian?” But more needs to be done on everyone’s part to stop pedestrian injuries and fatalities.

If you have been injured in a pedestrian accident or a loved one has been killed by a negligent driver, you have rights to pursue a legal claim. Find out about your rights and what financial compensation you are entitled to by calling the Law Offices of David Benenfeld to speak with a knowledgeable pedestrian accident attorney at 866-9 HELP NOW or (954) 677-0155(954) 677-0155 today.