Understanding the Crossing Hazards For Pedestrians
The Miami Herald recently reported that two men were killed within just a one week period while trying to cross U.S. 1. The first, a bicyclist, was killed in the Upper Keys when he reportedly “failed to observe” a southbound Kia Forte approaching “and darted in front” of the car according to Florida Highway Patrol. Days later a pedestrian was killed in the Lower Keys when he began crossing the Overseas Highway from the east and was struck by a Chrysler PT Cruiser that was traveling northbound when the pedestrian entered that lane. Neither of the drivers or passengers of either vehicle incurred any injuries in the respective accidents.
This tragic example demonstrates the fact that those traveling on the roadways outside of the protection of a motor vehicle are some of the most vulnerable individuals on the road. And just earlier this year, the South Florida area was deemed one of the most dangerous for pedestrians in the country. For this reason, it is imperative to understand the risk factors of accidents.
What Are the Potential Crossing Hazards For Pedestrians?
- Poor crosswalk markings. Over time, the markings for a crosswalk can become very faded due to the elements and may not be seen by drivers in advance. Pedestrians should keep this in mind when attempting to cross a street and take extra caution when it is clear that a crosswalk is poorly marked or has not been marked whatsoever.
- Significant distances. The bigger the highway or road that has to be crossed, the longer that it will take to cross it, and unfortunately this also extends the risk of an accident. Long crossing distances mean that the pedestrian is in the road for a longer time, meaning the risk of being hit by a car is greater. This is a particularly important factor for children and seniors crossing the street who often cannot walk as quickly.
- Left turning vehicles. Vehicles turning left into the crosswalk are often traveling at high speeds in order to gain the momentum to make it across before a vehicle approaches from the opposite direction. Because those drivers are focused on oncoming traffic and finding an opportunity to turn, they may not see pedestrians. Pedestrians should always take extra care at intersections with left turning vehicles.
- High traffic volume. Busy roads mean that many drivers are frustrated and drivers who are in a hurry are often more focused on trying to make it to their destinations than they are paying attention to pedestrians who are attempting to cross the road. Therefore, pedestrians should always take extra caution before attempting to cross at busy roads and should assume that drivers are unaware of their presence.
You Can Depend On Us For Help.
If you or your loved one has been injured while trying to cross the street due what you suspect was the negligence of a driver, we can help. We understand that these circumstances can lead to some of the most tragic implications and you and your family are likely struggling to understand and recover from what has happened. And if you have lost a loved one in a pedestrian accident, we can help you hold the responsible parties accountable. As the experienced Miami personal injury attorneys of The Pendas Law Firm, we have helped many people in similar circumstances and we have the experience that you need to help you recover the compensation you are entitled to. Contact us today to begin.
The Pendas Law Firm also represents clients in the Orlando, Tampa, Bradenton, Jacksonville, West Palm Beach, Fort Myers, Fort Lauderdale and Daytona Beach areas.
Resource:
miamiherald.com/news/local/community/florida-keys/article230992693.html
https://www.pendaslaw.com/summer-driving-safety-tips-for-teens/
