Although a large majority of people rely on motor vehicles to transport them from one place to another in Palm Bay, Florida, there are also a number of different transportation methods which do not involve cars, trucks, and SUVs. Most notably, riding bicycles and walking are two of the most common non-vehicle methods of reaching a destination.
It is an unfortunate truth that many pedestrian accidents occur throughout the country, including Palm Bay, Florida, and cause serious injuries to those pedestrians involved. Although traffic accidents which involve two or more vehicles can be catastrophic, the drivers and passengers in those cars have some amount of protection provided by the actual body of the vehicle. A pedestrian does not have that luxury.
When a pedestrian is struck by a moving vehicle, the negligent driver will likely be unharmed and the car itself will probably not even incur a dent. The pedestrian, on the other hand, will most certainly have injuries, and, in the worst circumstances, pedestrian fatalities may occur.
If a motor vehicle hits an individual who is legally crossing the roadway or is using a designated crosswalk, that driver needs to be held accountable for his or her actions. Pedestrian safety should be a top priority for automobile drivers because pedestrian injuries could have severe, long-lasting effects.
Common Causes of a Pedestrian Accident
In the vast majority of pedestrian accidents, it is not going to be the pedestrian’s fault for causing the traffic accident. Although some pedestrians have violated traffic laws by jaywalking or stepping in front of a vehicle that had the right of way, these cases are rare, and Florida law often sides with the pedestrian in most situations.
The most common causes of pedestrian accidents include the following situations:
- Speeding
- Alcohol and drug use (DUI/DWI) as determined by a test of blood alcohol concentration
- Distracted driving, especially with the use of cell phones
- Inclement weather conditions
- Failure to yield when the pedestrian has right of way
- Failure of motorists to exercise reasonable care while operating a motor vehicle
These and other unique circumstances have left many pedestrians with life-threatening and life-altering injuries that many are not able to fully recover from. When negligent or reckless drivers cause pedestrian accidents, they should be held accountable for their actions. It is wise for victims to contact personal injury lawyers to legally represent their best interests in and out of court.
Types of Injuries Resulting from Traffic Crashes Involving Pedestrians
Injuries for the pedestrians in car accidents can range from moderate to fatal, depending on the type of accident, the speed of the car when it struck the pedestrian, and other factors. Injuries to pedestrians can include:
- Broken bones
- Back and spinal injuries
- Head injuries
- Brain Trauma
- Internal organ damage
- Pelvic injuries
- Lacerations
- Burns
- Road rash
As opposed to crashes which involve only vehicles, pedestrian accidents are often worse for the pedestrian because the person may be struck by the vehicle in four distinct locations.
In general, the first strike is to the lower legs of the victim. This may sweep the pedestrian from their feet so that they land on the hood with their upper legs. Next the rest of the body falls onto the vehicle’s hood which may impact the torso and head regions. Finally, the individual may be tossed to the ground, especially if the car is excessively speeding.
All of these injuries are exacerbated by speed and further recklessness, so it is imperative that the injured pedestrian and/or his family hold the driver responsible for the accident.
Pedestrian Traffic Fatalities Are All Too Common
Unfortunately, pedestrian traffic accidents often result in fatalities. If it does not occur at the scene, the pedestrian may pass away as a result of the injuries in an ambulance or at the hospital. If this occurs, the responsible party should be held accountable for far more than simply medical expenses and funeral bills.
When Pedestrian Deaths Occur, the Families Deserve Justice!
When a death occurs as a result of a pedestrian being struck by a motor vehicle whose driver was not paying attention, that driver must be held responsible. The family of the deceased would be wise to consult with an experienced personal injury attorneys such as ours at Alpizar Law, LLC in Palm Bay, Florida, to discuss filing a wrongful death lawsuit.
Although no amount of money can ever replace a lost loved one, it can certainly provide financial assistance in the family’s time of grief. From residual medical bills to funeral expenses and lost wages, the family of the killed pedestrian will need to figure out how to pay for these losses. That is where the wrongful death lawsuit can play a part.
Allow your family to grieve in peace without worrying about mounting bills and lost wages. Alpizar Law, LLC in Palm Bay, Florida, to discuss the details of your claim.
Contact Our Experienced Pedestrian Accident Attorneys in Palm Bay, Florida
If you or a loved one was injured in a pedestrian accident caused by the negligence or recklessness of a distracted driver in the Palm Bay, Florida, area, contact Alpizar Law, LLC. Our team of experienced and skilled attorneys will investigate the circumstances of the accident, examine police reports and medical reports, and develop a solid case against the negligent driver.
People crossing the roadways and using crosswalks, simply trying to make their way from one point to another, deserve to be given extra caution by drivers. Those drivers who are not practicing defensive driving but rather speed their way across town should be held accountable for their actions.
At Alpizar Law, LLC, our attorneys are here to provide you with a free consultation to discuss the details of your case and to determine if you may be eligible to file a personal injury claim. We are here to represent your best interests, and we want you to be able to focus on healing from your injuries.
Call now to schedule your free case evaluation!
