Pedestrians are responsible for practicing caution by looking both ways before crossing the street, walking within the crosswalk lines, etc. But even still, a crosswalk accident may unfortunately occur. Follow along to find out the frequent causes of crosswalk accidents and how a proficient Tampa pedestrian accident lawyer at Merricks Law Group, P.A. can help you out in this situation.
What are the common causes of crosswalk accidents in the state of Florida?
Like most auto accidents, crosswalk accidents tend to occur when a driver acts negligently. The following are just some examples of driver negligence:
- The driver ignored a red light when proceeding through or turning at the crosswalk.
- The driver made an illegal maneuver to proceed through or turn at the crosswalk.
- The driver did not consider an obstructed view before proceeding through or turning at the crosswalk.
- The driver misjudged the actions of a pedestrian when proceedings through or turning at the crosswalk.
- The driver misjudged the distance between their car and a pedestrian when proceeding through or turning at the crosswalk.
- The driver was speeding when proceeding through or turning at the crosswalk.
- The driver was distracted when proceeding through or turning at the crosswalk.
Though rare, some outside circumstances may be responsible for a crosswalk accident. Examples include the following:
- Closed sidewalks due to construction did not give a pedestrian a safe place to stand.
- Inclement weather did not allow the driver to see the pedestrian.
- Hazards on the road forced the driver to swerve out of the way toward the pedestrian.
What should I do if I was a pedestrian involved in an accident?
If you were wrongfully injured at a crosswalk, then you may be able to hold the negligent party accountable and recover your damages via a personal injury claim. For this, you should take the following initiatives while still at the scene of your accident:
- Call for law enforcement officers to arrive at the scene.
- Call for paramedics and EMTs to arrive at the scene.
- Take photos and videos of your injuries, damages, and the overall scene.
- Obtain any surveillance camera footage of your accident occurring.
- Collect the contact information of all other parties involved.
- Collect the contact information of all present witnesses.
- Allow paramedics and EMTs to treat you at the scene and take you to the hospital.
- Schedule follow-up appointments with your physician as directed.
- Collect medical notes and bills that note the severity and cost of your injuries.
For additional guidance, talk with a skilled Tampa auto accident lawyer today. We look forward to speaking with you.
