In Florida, hundreds of pedestrians died last year
U.S. pedestrian fatalities reached a 40-year high in 2021, according to recent pedestrian accident statistics compiled by the Governor’s Highway Safety Administration (GHSA). “Tragically, a first glimpse at preliminary data for the first six months of 2021 reveals the upward trend is continuing,” the GHSA said in a statement.
During the first six months of 2021, pedestrian fatalities nationwide increased by 17 percent when compared to the same six-month period in 2020. According to the GHSA, that number represents the most pedestrian fatalities nationwide in more than 40 years.
Sadly, this trend is nothing new. In the past decade, pedestrian fatalities across the nation have increased by 46 percent, from 4,457 deaths in 2011 to 6,516 deaths in 2020.
Florida pedestrian fatalities increase dramatically
Pedestrian fatalities have been a serious problem in Florida for a long time, as the state traditionally ranks near the top for the most pedestrian deaths. The first half of 2021 was no different. According to GHSA statistics, pedestrian fatalities increased by about 30 percent (105 deaths) in the first half of 2021.
The second half of 2021 was just as bad. Overall, 844 pedestrians were killed in Florida in 2021, according to statistics compiled by the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV).
Common causes of pedestrian accidents
Pedestrian accidents happen for many different reasons. In general, they typically occur due to the reckless or negligent actions of drivers. Examples include:
- Distracted drivers not paying attention, especially texting drivers.
- Aggressive drivers who don’t stop for pedestrians in crosswalks at intersections.
- Speeding drivers who don’t have time to avoid hitting a pedestrian.
- Drunk drivers or drivers under the influence of drugs who hit pedestrians.
- Tired drivers who fall asleep and hit pedestrians walking alongside the road or while crossing the street.
These are just some of the reasons why pedestrian accidents happen. Whatever the cause of your pedestrian accident, make sure you fully understand your legal rights, especially if a loved one was killed in a pedestrian accident.
Legal options available to families
If a family member died in a fatal Florida pedestrian accident, you often have several legal options available. Depending on the circumstances of the accident, your options can include:
- Accept a settlement offer from the at-fault driver’s insurance company.
- Ask for more money and negotiate a better settlement offer.
- File a lawsuit against the at-fault party seeking damages, the legal term for financial compensation.
Talk to a Tampa pedestrian accident attorney today
The physical, emotional, and financial toll of a fatal pedestrian accident can be staggering. Medical bills, lost future income, and funeral expenses can easily add up to thousands of dollars—or significantly more. That's why you need an experienced pedestrian accident lawyer to protect your rights and advocate for the compensation you're entitled to.
At Armando Personal Injury Law, our dedicated legal team will fight for the justice and financial compensation your family deserves. We have the knowledge, experience, and resources to handle every aspect of your claim, and we know what it takes to build winning cases in Hillsborough County. Discover what we can do for you. Contact us today to schedule a free case evaluation with an experienced Tampa pedestrian accident attorney. Our office is conveniently located on East 5th Avenue in Tampa, FL.