Sadly, it’s not unusual to hear about accidents involving pedestrians and automobiles, particularly in Florida. But many people may not realize that pedestrian accidents occur not only on local streets and neighborhoods, but also on Florida highways. Pedestrians can be seen walking along highways for a number of reasons. Still, it is important to note that pedestrians, much like drivers, are required to use proper care in an effort to protect themselves from various dangers that certain circumstances can present.
Pedestrians who are hurt while on a highway can face several difficult factual and legal issues. Nevertheless, individuals who are hurt on highways may be able to recover compensation for their injuries. First, let’s take a look at why there may be pedestrians walking along the interstate in the first place.
Why Are Pedestrians on the Interstate?
One of the main questions people often have with respect to pedestrian accidents that occur on highways is, “Why are there pedestrians on the highway in the first place?” There are a number of reasons why someone may need to walk along a highway. For instance, if a person’s car breaks down on the highway, he or she may choose to get out and push the vehicle further down the highway or off the roadway.
Likewise, he or she may need to walk around the vehicle while attempting to work on it. While it may seem as though a driver should be able to see the individual pushing or working on the vehicle, these accidents often occur due to driver distraction and/or inattention, as well as possible drunkenness and/or drowsiness.
Another reason someone may be walking along a highway is because the individual was involved in a previous accident. Depending on the severity of the accident, the individual may have been thrown from the vehicle or he or she may be attempting to deal with accident-related issues, such as exchanging contact information, speaking with witnesses or inspecting the damage stemming from the collision. A second accident can occur in such cases, particularly if it’s nighttime and the highway is poorly lit.
What Legal Options Are Available to Pedestrians After an Accident?
Pedestrians who have been injured while on a highway may have the right to pursue a claim against the driver based on negligence. Additionally, the harmed individual may have a legal claim against certain state or federal agencies, depending on the cause of the accident, for reasons relating to the design of the highway, poor maintenance or even the presence of road construction (in certain instances). Reasonable care must be exercised by the agency to help ensure that individuals who use the highway (even pedestrians) are kept as safe as possible.
Florida has thousands of individuals in the state on any given day. That being the case, it should not be surprising that pedestrian accidents can occur on local roadways, as well as interstates. If you or someone you love has been involved in an accident as a pedestrian,Naples personal injury attorneys are available to help you. Contact Attorney Ryan Kuhl today to learn more about your legal rights and options.