You are already considered a vulnerable road user when navigating Florida streets on foot, but you are at an even higher risk of serious pedestrian accidents at night. The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) reports that the rate of nighttime traffic collisions is three times higher than during the day, and around 75% of all pedestrian accident fatalities occur at night. Many other victims are injured while walking at night, often because of negligent drivers.
As you can guess, visibility is a top factor when it comes to crashes at night involving people on foot. You do have rights as a victim if you were hurt or lost a loved one in such an incident, so you could qualify to recover monetary damage for your losses. A Miami pedestrian accidents attorney will guide you through the legal steps, and some details about visibility at night are useful.
How Visibility Affects People on Foot
The biggest factor when you are a pedestrian sharing the road with others is your size. Motorists expect to be maneuvering around larger, motorized cars and trucks, so they do not anticipate the presence of a smaller, lower-profile road user. The problem of pedestrian accidents at night is more pronounced in certain locations, including:
- Schools for after-school events;
- Bus stops and transit stations;
- Parks and tourist attractions;
- Entertainment venues;
- Miami beaches and pedestrian thoroughfares;
- Sports venues.
These spaces tend to be heavily trafficked by pedestrians, but they are also congested areas around Downtown Miami.
Tips to Stay Safe
Knowing that visibility is the key to walking safely, there are some recommendations you can use to avoid pedestrian accidents. The first is to counter the issue by being as visible as possible, starting with your clothing. Wear light and brightly colored garments, and look into purchasing clothes with reflective tape and fabrics that pick up the light.
When out walking at night, carry a flashlight that will shine brightly as you swing your arms. You can also wear a headlamp to keep your arms free. Avoid phone use that affects your ability to stay safe, which means turning off the music and saving the text messages for later.
Damages for Victims of Pedestrian Accidents
If you are hurt in a collision, your losses will be considerable because of the severe, catastrophic injuries. Therefore, it is important to pursue your legal remedies to recover:
- Economic damages, including your medical expenses and lost wages; and,
- Noneconomic damages that cover your pain and suffering, emotional anguish, and losses related to quality of life.
Discuss Options with Our Miami Pedestrian Accidents Lawyers
The potential to recover monetary damages is reassuring, but you will need legal help to file a claim and a case in court. To learn more about your options, please contact Gerson & Schwartz, PA. You can reach an experienced Florida pedestrian accident attorney by calling (305) 371-6000 or visiting our website. We are happy to set up a no-cost case review at our offices in Miami, Fort Lauderdale, or West Palm Beach, FL.