We often hear about drivers being the main cause of pedestrian accidents, but these accidents can be caused by drivers and pedestrians alike. The reality is that pedestrian accidents in Florida, much like anywhere else, often have multiple causes. Being aware of the most common causes might help you determine negligence for your pedestrian accident claim. In the state of Florida, you can also talk to a Florida pedestrian accident attorney about how to prove negligence.
Top Causes of Pedestrian Accidents
The top pedestrian accident causes can be broken down into four main categories that involve pedestrian behaviors, driver behaviors, environmental conditions, and unique circumstances. Understanding each of these could help tremendously with your claim, whether you are suing or defending yourself in court.
Pedestrian behaviors like jaywalking, misusing crosswalks, and not seeing a car driving through a parking lot can all increase the chances of an accident. Some of these can be 
used against the pedestrian if a lawsuit is filed. Walking in a parking lot while looking at a phone, for example, could be used against a pedestrian.
Driver behaviors that increase accidents include distracted driving, drugged driving, not following traffic lights or crosswalk signals, and speed. A driver who is speeding through a parking lot may not be able to stop in time to avoid hitting a pedestrian. Going over the speed limit alone could be used against this driver.
Environmental conditions could be used against the state depending on what they involve. These would be things like faulty crosswalk signals. Unique circumstances may not be used against one party or the other but might be used to defend yourself against a lawsuit. These would be things like inclement weather, people with disabilities, and medical emergencies. Contact a Florida pedestrian lawyer to learn more.
How to Prevent Pedestrian Accidents
Despite the seemingly unpredictable nature of pedestrian accidents, there are ways to reduce them. You can prevent pedestrian accidents by avoiding certain behaviors and practicing vigilance at crosswalks. Start by avoiding behaviors like:
- Texting while driving or walking
- Driving or walking while under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- Speeding through busy parking lots or intersections
Pedestrians can decrease their chances of being hit by a car by always using crosswalks when available, following crosswalk signals with caution, and by wearing reflective clothing at night. Avoid jaywalking and always look both ways before crossing. Do not assume the driver will stop because you are walking in front of them.
One of the most common causes of pedestrian accidents at intersections is pedestrians not realizing a car is turning. This is where vigilance at intersections plays a role. Take a few seconds before crossing to make sure the other driver is not turning where you will be walking.
Florida Pedestrian Accident Attorney
Surviving a pedestrian accident may not only be painful but also traumatic. Call Piedra Law Injury Attorneys at (855) 881-4878 today to talk to a Homestead County auto accident lawyer for a free consultation. Our team of Florida accident attorneys can help you collect evidence for your accident claim. We serve clients in Miami, Dade County, Broward County, Hialeah, Fort Lauderdale, Pembroke Pines, Hollywood, North Miami, Sunrise, Coral Springs, Pompano Beach, Deerfield Beach, Doral, Kendall, and Homestead, Florida.
