A tragic accident on U.S. 441 near Stonecrest is yet another reminder of the fatal consequences that often come when a car collides with a person traveling on two feet.
An unidentified man died after being struck by a car in early August, Villages-News reports. The man was standing in the outside travel lane on Highway 441 when he was struck by a sport utility vehicle traveling southbound, according to the news outlet.
It turns out that the man may have actually been struck twice. A second SUV trailing the first car appears to have also collided with the pedestrian, Villages-News said.
The drivers of both cars and one passenger reportedly walked away without injuries.
The crash is just the latest example of the risks that pedestrians take when they walk outside of designated areas, especially on busy roadways like 441.
Roughly 10,000 people are injured in pedestrian accidents across Florida each year and nearly 750 of those people are killed, according to data compiled by Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles. The accidents and fatalities have steadily increased over the last decade.
Meanwhile, fatal accidents involving pedestrians hit by cars have surged by more than 50% across the country in the last decade, a recent study by the American Automobile Association found. The vast majority of the uptick came from collisions involving pedestrians walking in areas not designated for foot traffic and/or after dark.
Hurt in a Car Accident? Know Your Rights
If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident involving a pedestrian or in another type of collision in Florida, you have the right to seek compensation from those responsible.
State law requires drivers to operate their vehicles in a reasonably safe manner and to refrain from dangerous behavior behind the wheel at all times. That means complying with traffic laws, following street signs and avoiding drinking and driving, aggressive driving and texting and driving.
A driver who does not live up to this responsibility is likely to be found negligent and responsible for any accidents that happen as a result.
At the same time, however, pedestrians are also expected to act in a reasonably safe manner. A pedestrian who is struck by a car while walking outside of a designated area on a busy highway may also be considered negligent.
Talk with a Villages Accident Attorney Today
If you have been injured in a car accident, it is vital that you have an experienced personal injury attorney in your corner to help you navigate the process and understand your rights and options.
Tim Babiarz is a The Villages accident attorney who has been fighting for people injured in crashes for more than two decades. A tenacious litigator, Tim is committed to helping people get the full compensation available under the law.
Our office is conveniently located in the Villages. We are also proud to represent clients throughout the area, including in Ocala, Leesburg, Lady Lake, Wildwood, Summerfield and beyond. Call (352) 205-7559 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation with The Villages accident attorney.
