Tips To Prevent Sarasota Pedestrian Accidents From Unfolding
Pedestrian accidents happen all across Florida and even right here in our beloved Sarasota. Unfortunately, many of the roads and intersections in our area are fine for vehicles but terrible for pedestrians, roads like US 301, US 41, University Parkway, and Tamiami Trail to name a few. Nobody wants the incidents to unfold because when machines take on humans, the machines typically win. In turn, people are left with severe injuries like fractures/broken bones, traumatic brain injuries, and burns. Of course, there is an even worst outcome. Some individuals are killed when pedestrian accidents become realities.
Hopefully, you don't think we're pulling your chain. These incidents really happen all too often in Florida, but we do not simply expect you to take our word for it. There are stats that show the dangers of being a pedestrian in Sarasota and other nearby locations. According to the FLHSMV, there were 9,736 pedestrian crashes in the Sunshine State in 2019.
The events caused 1,524 incapacitating injuries and 6,369 other injuries. Meanwhile, the accidents were also responsible for 734 pedestrian fatalities. On many occasions, negligent drivers are to blame for these crashes. However, if you regularly use your two feet to get around Sarasota, you might be able to do some things to keep yourself in the clear. Use the following tips, and hopefully, no pedestrian accidents will head your way.
Safety Precautions To Keep Pedestrian Crashes At Bay
Always Remain Aware Of Your Surroundings
Yes, motorists need to be on the lookout for pedestrians at all times. However, that doesn't always happen. Hence, take it upon yourself to remain aware of your surroundings when walking. Even if you have the right of way, keep your head on a swivel. Make sure no cars are coming before you attempt to use a crosswalk to cross a street.
Also, take the time to look twice before walking past a driveway on a sidewalk. You owe it to yourself to take precautions like these. That's because they could be just what the doctor ordered for keeping you out of harm's way.
Walk Facing Traffic
Obviously, pedestrians should always walk on sidewalks whenever possible. However, if no sidewalk exists in the direction you're going in Sarasota, make it a point to walk facing traffic. This allows you to see what's happening in front of you and react if something out of the ordinary occurs. A person can't react to what they can't see. So, be sure to walk facing traffic.
Avoid Getting Distracted
All too often, we hear about distracted driving. It is true that distracted motorists cause accidents. However, pedestrians who are distracted by phones, music, etc., can just as easily be to blame. Therefore, the next time you decide to walk from point A to point B in Sarasota, do yourself a favor and try not to let distractions enter the picture. That could save you a lot of pain or your family a lot of grief in the long run.
Ensure You Are Visible
People can wear whatever they want when they want. But if you're going to be a pedestrian, especially at dawn or dusk, consider choosing an outfit that's highly visible. Bright-colored clothing will make it easier for drivers to spot you in the darkness. Then, with any luck, they won't strike, injure, or kill you. So, the question is, "Why would you wear anything else?".
Some Last Thoughts
Have you been severely injured in a pedestrian crash by a negligent driver? What about someone you love? Were they killed in such an incident? If you answered yes to either question, you might have the grounds to seek compensation. Contact Goldman, Babboni, Fernandez, Murphy & Walsh to schedule a free case review today. During the meeting, a personal injury lawyer will help you determine where your claim stands. Then, you can decide whether to seek restitution or not.
