According to a Smart Growth America’s 2016 Dangerous by Design report, Florida is the most dangerous state for pedestrians. In fact, eight out of the top 10 cities with high pedestrian danger indexes are in our state, and Deltona-Daytona Beach-Ormond Beach ranked fifth.
While pedestrians must take care in crosswalks and along roadways, motorists are primarily responsible for driving with caution and staying alert to the presence of people near streets or
in parking lots.
Five Ways to Avoid Pedestrian Accidents
Drivers hit pedestrians for many reasons that constitute negligence. Failing to yield, speeding, distracted driving, and intoxication are a few common causes. However, motorists can prevent pedestrian accidents by following these safety tips:
- Follow right-of-way rules. It's important that drivers yield to pedestrians, who have the right-of-way whether they're walking in a crosswalk or the middle of the road.
- Slow down and don’t pass in crosswalks. Make sure you can see pedestrians approaching or who are in the crosswalk and stop if necessary. You also want to avoid passing another driver in a crosswalk who may have stopped for a pedestrian you cannot see.
- Know where children are. When you're in a driveway, parking lot, school zone, playground, or anywhere else where there are children, check all blind spots and proceed carefully. Kids don't understand most traffic rules, and you need to be extra cautious to avoid a heart-breaking accident.
- Avoid distractions. Talking on a cellphone, texting, or engaging in other distracted driving practices is especially dangerous and increases the likelihood you'll not spot pedestrians before it's too late.
- Be cautious in parking lots. These areas are often congested with drivers and pedestrians, and there are fewer traffic rules. Travel slowly in parking lots, and even though you check your mirrors and rear camera, look over your shoulder, too, before backing out of a space.
If a negligent driver caused an accident that injured you or a loved one, call our office today. We'll schedule a free consultation with a member of our legal team to get your questions answered and learn about your right to compensation.
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