Ocala Auto Accident lawyer Martinez Manglardi PA says pedestrians and drivers must do better at staying alert. The last two years for which records are available (2016 and 2017) were the deadliest for pedestrians 1990 according to Smart Growth America. In fact, the organization says in their recent report, Dangerous by Design 2019, that over the past ten years, pedestrian accident fatalities have increased by more than one-third. The report ranks states and metropolitan areas with a “Pedestrian Danger Index” (PDI). The index uses the number of people in fatal car/pedestrian accidents per city.
Florida is the most dangerous state in America when it comes to getting hit by a car. And, the report says, the Orlando–Kissimmee area is the most dangerous place in Florida for pedestrians. Orlando earned the highest PDI in the country, 313.3. Getting hit by a car in Ocala is also not uncommon. In fact, Ocala car accidents account for most of the pedestrian injuries and deaths in Marion County. Recently, an Ocala car accident claimed the life of a pedestrian crossing State Road 200 at Southwest 95th Circle.
Congratulations to @BikeWalkCFL on receiving the 2019 FDOT District Five Bike/Pedestrian Evaluation Award! We’d like to recognize the tireless evaluation efforts to bike/pedestrian safety in Central Florida!#BikePedSafety #FDOT pic.twitter.com/1m2SNSyj9H
— FDOT District 5 (@MyFDOT_CFL) August 15, 2019
OCALA ACCIDENT LAWYER CAN HELP ACCIDENT VICTIMS
Here are Ten Tips on How to Avoid Pedestrian Accidents from the National Highway Transportation Authority:
- Be predictable. Follow the rules of the road and obey signs and signals.
- Walk on sidewalks whenever they are available.
- If there is no sidewalk, walk facing traffic and as far from traffic as possible.
- Keep alert at all times; don’t be distracted by electronic devices that take your eyes (and ears) off the road.
- Whenever possible, cross streets at crosswalks or intersections, where drivers expect pedestrians. Look for cars in all directions, including those turning left or right.
- If a crosswalk or intersection is not available, locate a well-lit area where you have the best view of traffic. Wait for a gap in traffic that allows enough time to cross safely; continue watching for traffic as you cross.
- Never assume a driver sees you. Make eye contact with drivers as they approach to make sure you are seen.
- Be visible at all times. Wear bright clothing during the day, and wear reflective materials or use a flashlight at night.
- Watch for cars entering or exiting driveways, or backing up in parking lots.
- Avoid alcohol and drugs when walking; they impair your abilities and your judgment.
If you’re looking for the best accident lawyer in Ocala, consider Ocala accident lawyer Martinez Manglardi PA. For more than 30 years, we’ve been helping get justice for accident victims. Call 407-846-2240 for a free consultation at one of our convenient Central Florida locations.
