Pedestrian Accident Injuries in Naples

Our team understands the devastation and pain caused by pedestrian accident injuries in Naples, Florida.

Pedestrians are often the most vulnerable victims of Florida car accidents. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), more than 76,000 pedestrians were injured in traffic crashes across the country in 2019. People are aware of the dangers posed by speeding motorists and careless drivers, but many don’t realize that even vehicles traveling at a reasonable speed can cause serious injuries.

According to Florida statute 316.130(7), driving through a pedestrian crosswalk is illegal without stopping for pedestrians when the walk signal is on. Only when the traffic signal turns on may the pedestrian proceed across the street.

Unfortunately, accidents still do happen, leaving the victims in pain. At Naples Community Injury Center, we can help you alleviate the pain and discomfort associated with your pedestrian accident injury.

Where Are Pedestrian Accidents Most Common?

Being informed about dangerous areas where accidents can happen helps prevent pedestrian accidents and deaths. Vigilant pedestrians are more likely to be cautious in these areas. Here are some pedestrian accident hotspots in Florida:

Intersections

Intersections present more opportunities for pedestrian accidents than other types of roadways because they combine high traffic volume with complex decision-making processes on behalf of both pedestrians and drivers. Intersections also involve multiple lanes of traffic where vehicles are traveling at different speeds along different trajectories toward each other — creating right-of-way mix-ups.

According to Florida law, pedestrians must be given the same consideration as other traffic when drivers enter a public street from a private driveway. Also, pedestrians cannot enter the crosswalk whenever they want – they should give motorists enough time and distance for a reaction or a complete stop.

Some intersections have proven dangerous in Florida and are monitored as part of the “High Visibility” initiative, including:

• N.E. Second Avenue And 36th Street – Midtown Miami
• South Of I-95 On South Dixie Highway – Coconut Grove/Coral Gables
• A1A And Las Olas Boulevard – Fort Lauderdale
• S.W. 117th Avenue and Kendall Drive – West Kendall
• S.W. 117th Avenue and 152nd Street – South Miami-Dade
• Bruce B. Downs Boulevard/Fletcher Avenue E.
• Nebraska Avenue, from Fletcher Avenue to E. 104th Avenue

Shared Use Paths or Trails

Shared trails consist of sidewalks, bike lanes, and jogging trails open to pedestrians and vehicles. This creates heavy foot traffic, which increases the risk of pedestrian accidents.

Parking Areas

Parking lots and garages are full of blind spots for drivers, so it’s easy for them to hit a pedestrian without realizing it. You should always walk in car parking lots carefully and be aware of the cars around you at all times.

Roadside or Shoulder

These areas can be dangerous places because they aren’t controlled by traffic signals. If you have to walk along the side of the road, be aware of any debris on the shoulder that could trip you up.

Safety Tips for Pedestrians

Pedestrian accidents can happen anywhere, but they are most common in urban areas where there are more pedestrians on the roadways and drivers may not be accustomed to sharing space with other vehicles. Pedestrians should take precautions to prevent being involved in an accident with a car or truck.

Pedestrians should follow these tips to prevent accidents:

• Use crosswalks, when possible, if there is no crosswalk available, walk on the sidewalk toward the center line of traffic so that you will be visible to drivers.
• Cross street intersections rather than near driveways or alleys because vehicles often turn into them without looking for pedestrians first.
• Always look both ways before crossing any street or highway; do not rely on traffic lights or stop signs alone because they do not always indicate whether you are safe to cross.
• Wear bright clothing, especially when walking at night or in bad weather conditions.
• Avoid distractions such as texting while walking down the street.
• Avoid jaywalking and crossing streets without using crosswalks or pedestrian bridges.
• Watch out for cars entering intersections after stopping at red lights because they may not see you.

Most Common Pedestrian Accident Injuries in Naples

When a pedestrian is involved in an accident, they may sustain severe injuries. This is because they are not protected by safety features such as airbags and seat belts that protect drivers and passengers. The most common pedestrian injuries include:

Spinal Cord Injuries

Spinal cord injuries can be devastating because they affect mobility and cause significant pain. A spinal cord injury occurs when the vertebrae in your spine are damaged or dislocated causing nerve damage to your limbs and torso area.

Soft-Tissue Injuries

Pedestrian accidents may injure soft tissues – muscle strains (sprains), bruises, muscle tears, ligament tears, and nerve damage.

Fractures

These include broken bones, which can be very painful and cause swelling and bruising. Fractures may be closed (not involving a break in the skin) or open (with a break in the skin).

Back Injuries

Of all the types of pedestrian accident injuries, back injuries are by far the most common. These can range from minor sprains or strains to serious fractures or ruptures in the vertebral discs.

How Naples Community Injury Center Can Help

In the aftermath of a pedestrian accident, your main concern should be getting treatment. The first step is to talk with a doctor to help prevent further injuries. At Naples Community Injury Center, our doctors can recommend various treatments depending on the severity of your injuries.

Chiropractic Care

Our chiropractors use spinal manipulation techniques to align vertebrae and reduce pressure on nerves that cause pain throughout the body. This type of therapy is beneficial for patients who have suffered whiplash or other neck injuries in an accident.

Physical Therapy

Physical therapists help patients regain strength and mobility after an injury. They work with patients on exercises specific to their needs to return to normal activity as quickly as possible without causing further damage.

Pain Management

Pain is a common symptom of pedestrian accident injuries. Serious injuries, especially those affecting the spine, can cause pain that lasts for months or even years after the initial injury. It’s important to manage this pain, so it doesn’t worsen and lead to additional problems.

Rehabilitation

If you have suffered severe injuries that require long-term care, this treatment option can help. Rehabilitation programs are designed to help individuals regain their strength, mobility, and independence after an accident. These programs also reduce pain and improve overall physical functioning over time.

Neurology

Neurology deals with injuries affecting the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord). A neurologist can diagnose conditions like traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) and spinal cord injuries (SCIs) among others.

Call Naples Community Injury Center Today!

When you are injured in a pedestrian accident, you may suffer serious injuries. What treatment options are available to you, and how can you get the care you need? At Naples Community Injury Center, we’re committed to providing quality care for people who have been injured in different types of accidents.

Our team of doctors will provide the best care possible for your injuries and get you back on your feet as quickly as possible. Call us today at 239-631-5445 for help with your pedestrian injury!