Have you been injured by an automobile as a pedestrian in Florida?
Walking through most South Florida cities can be a frustrating experience. We are a car-centric society with little or no concern for people crossing our sunbathed streets. Our roads were not designed with a pedestrian-friendly approach in mind. Yet many pedestrians are out there during the holidays. Whether you are a local or a tourist, it is important you avoid dangerous situations such as distracted and drunk driving.
Florida is one of the best destinations to spend the holidays but also the worst state for pedestrians fatalities. We have good weather, mouthwatering cuisine, pristine beaches, and much entertainment. It’s the perfect time to go out for a walk but also the riskiest season of the year. If you or a loved one is involved in a pedestrian accident this holiday season, make sure you hire an experienced personal injury attorney.
How you can avoid a pedestrian accident?
There are many pedestrians shopping or attending holiday gatherings during this time of the year. In order to prevent accidents or injuries from happening, you can follow a few tips:
Don’t drive under the influence
Intoxicated drivers cause almost fifteen percent of deadly pedestrian accidents. Both the driver and the pedestrian share the road, therefore, drunk driving is not safe for anyone. The more alcohol the driver consumes, the less reliable your response time and coordination becomes. Also, DUI arrests are very costly. A DUI charge can affect both your finances and emotional well being. But all of that is nothing with the guilt you will feel when you injure or kill a pedestrian or driver of another vehicle.
Don’t pass a car in a crosswalk
If you see a car stops in a crosswalk, don’t pass it. This is a common scenario for many pedestrian-car accidents. Impatient drivers don’t see the pedestrian crossing the street and pass the car in front of them only to injure or kill a pedestrian. In other words, don’t assume the driver that just stopped in front of you is distracted but rather look carefully for any pedestrians crossing the road.
Don’t block sidewalks
This is another typical scenario. It’s very dangerous when a car blocks a sidewalk. It forces pedestrian out of their path and they may walk closer to your vehicle and other vehicles passing by, exposing themselves to danger. You must yield to pedestrians at all times as they are more vulnerable to accidents and lack protection.
Don’t drive recklessly
Aggressive driving includes tailgating, cutting off, swerving, speeding and merging at the last minute. But aggressive driving entails more than a reckless driver. It can also promote road rage and make others feel unsafe. You can drive defensively and simply be cautious. Check the blind spots, look in the mirrors, use your turn signals, and above all, slow down.
Don’t admit your fault
It is important you seek the assistance of a Florida personal injury attorney if you have been injured in a pedestrian accident. Whether you are the driver or pedestrian, the attorney can take a look at the circumstances surrounding your case and determine if the charges brought against you are just. Remember if you admit that the accident was your fault, the statement can be used against you later on.
Don’t reject medical attention
You must seek medical treatment as soon as possible as your injuries may worsen over time. Even if you don’t feel hurt, you should seek proper medical treatment and ask for a copy of your medical records. It will help your attorney obtain a fair settlement for your injuries. Contact us today and we will tell take a look at your circumstances and tell you whether or not you have a case.
Don’t drive under the influence
Intoxicated drivers cause almost fifteen percent of deadly pedestrian accidents. Both the driver and the pedestrian share the road, therefore, drunk driving is not safe for anyone. The more alcohol the driver consumes, the less reliable your response time and coordination becomes. Also, DUI arrests are very costly. A DUI charge can affect both your finances and emotional well-being. But all of that is nothing with the guilt you will feel when you injure or kill a pedestrian or driver of another vehicle.
Don’t pass a car in a crosswalk
If you see a car stops in a crosswalk, don’t pass it. This is a common scenario for many pedestrian-car accidents. Impatient drivers don’t see the pedestrian crossing the street and pass the car in front of them only to injure or kill a pedestrian. In other words, don’t assume the driver that just stopped in front of you is distracted but rather look carefully for any pedestrians crossing the road.
Don’t block sidewalks
This is another typical scenario. It’s very dangerous when a car blocks a sidewalk. It forces pedestrian out of their path and they may walk closer to your vehicle and other vehicles passing by, exposing themselves to danger. You must yield to pedestrians at all times as they are more vulnerable for accidents and lack protection.
Don’t drive recklessly
Aggressive driving includes tailgating, cutting off, swerving, speeding and merging at the last minute. But aggressive driving entails more than a reckless driver. It can also promote road rage and make others feel unsafe. You can drive defensively and simply be cautious. Check the blind spots, look in the mirrors, use your turn signals, and above all, slow down.
Don’t admit your fault
It is important you seek the assistance of a personal injury attorney if you have been injured in a pedestrian accident. Whether you are the driver or pedestrian, the attorney can take a look at the circumstances surrounding your case and determine if the charges brought against you are just. Remember if you admit that the accident was your fault, the statement can be used against you later on.
Don’t reject medical attention
You must seek medical treatment as soon as possible as your injuries may worsen over time. Even if you don’t feel hurt, you should seek proper medical treatment and ask for a copy of your medical records. It will help your attorney obtain a fair settlement for your injuries. Contact us today and we will tell take a look at your circumstances and tell you whether or not you have a case.
Note: This article is intended for informational purposes only. Our dedicated team compiles accident news reports using a variety of trusted external sources, such as local news outlets, official police reports, social media updates, and eyewitness statements regarding incidents in Florida. While we strive for accuracy, the facts in this post have not been independently verified by our writers. If you identify any inaccuracies, please contact Neufeld & Kleinfeld, PA, immediately, and we will promptly address any corrections. Posts can also be removed upon request.
Disclaimer: This post is not intended as a business solicitation. The information provided should not be interpreted as medical or legal advice. Additionally, the photo accompanying this post does not depict the accident scene described in this post.
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