Pedestrian Dies Crossing Dale Mabry Highway in Tampa
The Dale Mabry Highway in Tampa is known for its high risks of traffic accidents, and sadly, at the end of June, a pedestrian lost his life while trying to cross the busy roadway. At about 6:30 am, a driver of an SUV hit a 65-year-old man at the intersection of W. Cypress Street. The Tampa Police Department was still investigating the cause of the fatal collision.
Pedestrian accidents can happen in many areas around Tampa, including on busy highways and quieter residential streets. Some pedestrians suffer serious injuries in parking lots or garages, or even on the sidewalk when they are not crossing the street.
If a driver hits you and causes you serious injuries, you might have important legal rights. Similarly, if your family tragically lost a loved one in a pedestrian accident, you might seek compensation for wrongful death. Always discuss your options with a Tampa pedestrian accident attorney as soon as possible.
Pedestrian Injuries Can be Fatal
Pedestrian injuries have the potential to be devastating, and tragically, they can result in fatalities. Pedestrians are vulnerable road users, lacking the protection of a vehicle, making them particularly susceptible to severe injuries when involved in accidents with vehicles. Here are some reasons why pedestrian injuries can be fatal:
- Lack of protection - Pedestrians have minimal protection against the force of impact in a collision. When struck by a vehicle, they often bear the brunt of the collision, leading to severe injuries to vital organs, the head, and the spinal cord. The lack of structural safeguards around the pedestrian increases the risk of fatality.
- Blunt force trauma - The impact of a vehicle hitting a pedestrian can cause severe blunt force trauma. This trauma can result in internal injuries such as organ damage, internal bleeding, and broken bones. Such injuries can be life-threatening and require immediate medical attention.
- Head and brain injuries - Pedestrians are prone to head and brain injuries due to the high risk of impact with the vehicle or the pavement. Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) can have devastating consequences, leading to cognitive impairments, loss of motor function, and even death.
- Excessive force and speed - Speeding vehicles pose a significant threat to pedestrians. Higher speeds increase the force of impact, making it more likely for pedestrians to sustain fatal injuries. In accidents involving speeding vehicles, pedestrians have limited time to react and may be unable to avoid the collision.
- Intersection accidents - Intersections can be particularly dangerous for pedestrians, as vehicles are often making turns or not paying close attention to foot traffic. Failure to yield right of way, distracted driving, or impaired driving at intersections can result in fatal pedestrian accidents.
- Secondary accidents - Pedestrian accidents can also lead to secondary accidents involving other vehicles or pedestrians. The initial impact can cause a pedestrian to be thrown into the path of oncoming traffic or into other hazards, further increasing the risk of fatal injuries.
Speak with a Tampa Pedestrian Accident Attorney Today
Matthews Injury Law helps families who suffered devastating losses in pedestrian accidents. You can focus on your grief and emotional recovery, while we seek the justice and financial recovery you deserve. Contact us today for more information.