Did you know that Florida ranks second to California in the number of fatal pedestrian accidents? Perhaps more people walk outdoors because of our tropical climate, causing a greater percentage of pedestrians injured in the Sunshine State. Unfortunately, nice weather may contribute to pedestrian accidents. In fact, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that 90 percent of pedestrian fatalities in 2010 took place during clear weather.

Because Florida has wonderful weather, anyone who walks near traffic needs to be aware of the dangerous locations for pedestrians. Sadly, hundreds of pedestrians are killed in Florida every year in these common places:

  • Crosswalks at non-intersection locations
  • Intersection crosswalks
  • Roads near bus stops
  • School zones

Not only are pedestrians fatally injured statewide in the common locations mentioned above, but thousands are injured in our own local communities. Some dangerous and common roads where Sarasota pedestrian accidents and injuries take place include:

  • U.S. 301
  • U.S. 41
  • Swift Road
  • University Parkway
  • Fruitville Road
  • Bee Ridge Road
  • Clark Road

There are many other dangerous roads in the Sarasota area, including many streets in St. Petersburg, Tampa, Bradenton, and Venice. A pedestrian accident can occur at any intersection, crosswalk, residential road, or city street. Because of this, pedestrians need to always be aware of their surroundings. Additionally, motorists need to do a better job looking out for pedestrians.

Both pedestrians and drivers alike need to be aware that between the hours of 3 p.m. and 6 p.m., most of the pedestrian accidents in Florida occur. This is when school gets out and drivers get off work and start their commutes home. Especially during these hours, pedestrians need to be extra cautious when stepping off of a bus, before they enter a crosswalk, while they are crossing in a crosswalk even when the signal is on their side, or anywhere around moving vehicles.

Unfortunately, drivers fail to look out for and yield to pedestrians time and time again. If you or a loved one was injured in a Florida pedestrian accident, please call a Sarasota pedestrian injury attorney at Mallard Perez. We will provide you with a free consultation to find out how to hold negligent drivers accountable for your injuries. Contact us today at 888-409-3805.