2019 Spawns 30-Year High For Pedestrian Accident Fatalities in the United States

The Governors Highway Safety Association has recently determined that there were over 6,500 pedestrian accident fatalities in 2019 alone, marking a 30-year high. Pedestrian accidents are devastating, as people walking from place to place stand very little chance against an automobile weighing thousands of pounds. If you are someone who has recently been injured in a pedestrian accident, or you know someone who has lost their life in one, you must continue reading and reach out to our experienced Florida personal injury attorneys to learn more about pedestrian accidents and how we can help you recover the compensation you need after one. Here are some of the questions you may have:

How do most pedestrian accidents happen?

Pedestrian accidents can occur for various reasons. Sometimes, inclement weather conditions can cause a motorist to lose control of his/her vehicle and strike a pedestrian. In other cases, poorly-lit roads, overgrown vegetation, and people wearing dark clothes, especially at night, can all prevent motorists from seeing pedestrians until it’s too late. That being said, the most common cause of pedestrian accidents, is, rather unsurprisingly, driver negligence. Some of the most frequent types of driver negligence reported in Florida include driving under the influence, distracted driving, and speeding. In fact, distracted driving is the number one cause of all auto accidents. If you have been injured because a driver was doing any of the aforementioned, you will most likely have a valid personal injury claim.

What should I do if I was struck by a car as a pedestrian?

Though it may be difficult, it is always best to take immediate action after an accident, as long as you are still physically capable of doing so. First, call emergency services, as you will most likely require an ambulance and medical attention. From here, ask anyone who saw your accident for their email, phone number, or any other means by which you may contact them. Next, take pictures of the scene of the accident, and try your best to talk to the negligent driver as little as possible. Once you are transported to a hospital and treated, ensure you receive medical documents regarding your injuries and their extent. Finally, speak with an experienced Florida personal injury attorney who knows how to satisfy the burden of proof and win you the compensation you need. Keep in mind, however, that once you file your claim, you should always be very careful about what you post on social media. Insurance companies frequently monitor people’s accounts to see if they post anything that may even remotely contradict their claim. That is why it is always best to refrain from posting on social media altogether until your case is resolved.

Contact our experienced Florida firm

Ansbacher Law is composed of knowledgeable attorneys who are ready to assist clients with various legal matters throughout North Florida. We understand the urgency of your personal injury claim and additional legal matters, which is why we provide each of our clients with compassionate and efficient legal assistance, every step of the way. Please contact our office for an initial consultation today.