Walking is something that many people in Tampa, Florida enjoy. Tampa has beautiful weather, and many people like to take advantage of it by taking a walk. Others walk for exercise and to clear their minds. When most people go for a walk, they do not think about all of the horrible things that can potentially happen to them.
Unfortunately, pedestrian accidents are common. It is estimated that 8,000 pedestrians in Florida are involved in an accident each year. Most pedestrians who are struck by a car are injured. In fact, it is estimated that 7,500 Florida pedestrians are injured each year. Five hundred pedestrians die each year in Florida.
Anyone can get injured in a pedestrian accident. However, there are some people who are at a greater risk for getting injured in an accident than others. People who are in a hurry to get where they are going are less likely to look before crossing the street. That is why they are at a greater risk for getting injured.
The time of day one crosses the street can also increase his or her chances of getting hit. Most fatal pedestrian accidents occur between the hours of 6 p.m. and 12 a.m. Impaired driver vision is one of the reasons pedestrians are more likely to be injured while crossing the street at night.
Alcohol intoxication also plays a role in pedestrian accidents. It is estimated that 40 percent of pedestrians who are involved in a fatal car accident were intoxicated at the time of the accident. Pedestrian accidents are more likely to occur at non-intersections.
Age is another risk factor for pedestrian accidents. Children who are under the age of 14 make up 58 percent of the fatal pedestrian accidents. Although people who are over the age of 65 only make up 12 percent of the population, they make up 16 percent of fatal pedestrian accidents.
Children often act on impulse and may lack the judgment needed to avoid an oncoming vehicle. Older people often have physical impairments that make it difficult for them to cross the street. However, older people are less likely to walk while intoxicated.
Studies have shown that socioeconomic status can play a role in pedestrian accidents. People who are economically disadvantaged are more likely to be involved in a pedestrian accident. Researchers believe that a lack of social support is one of the reasons the economically-disadvantaged are more likely to be involved in an accident.
Furthermore, fatal pedestrian accidents are more likely to occur in rural areas. Although there are more pedestrian accident in urban areas, rural areas have significant and unique risks. A lack of pedestrian walkways and fewer trauma centers are two of the reasons pedestrians are more likely to be killed in a rural area.
If you have been involved in a pedestrian accident, then it is important to note that you may be able to get compensated for your injuries. You can file a claim against the driver’s auto insurance company. However, this can be difficult. In many cases, medical records will need to be researched before a person can get compensated. The insurance company wants to know that your injuries were caused by the accident before they award you any compensation.
That is why it is important to contact an experienced attorney. An attorney can prove that your injuries were the result of the pedestrian accident. Your attorney will understand the pain and frustration you are going through. They will fight hard to make sure you are properly compensated.