Record Number of Pedestrian and Cyclist Deaths in Pinellas County
The Tampa Bay Area is known as one of the most dangerous places in Florida for pedestrians and cyclists. However, 2021 was especially dangerous for Pinellas County. The pedestrian and cyclist deaths in Pinellas County almost doubled in 2021, even though the rates did not change that much in other counties in Tampa Bay.
In 2021, 85 pedestrians and cyclists were killed in Pinellas County, up from 49 in 2020. In addition, based on Safe Streets Pinellas data, approximately two people are severely injured or killed every single day in Pinellas County.
What’s Causing All These Pedestrian Deaths in Pinellas County?
According to the executive director of Forward Pinellas Whit Blanton, poor lighting conditions, long stretches of roads between crosswalks, and in lower-income areas, the higher number of cyclists and pedestrians all contributed to the high accident and death rate in Pinellas County. The spike can likewise be attributed to significant changes in the peak driving times because of the pandemic.
Most pedestrian deaths occur after dark, and poor lighting conditions on some Pinellas County roadways make them particularly hazardous to pedestrians. In most areas, intersections get the most light, which leaves dark, long stretches of road in between whether pedestrians usually cross rather than crossing the intersection. In addition, most pedestrian accidents occur in lower-income areas where biking and walking are the most common forms of transportation.
What Injuries Do Pedestrians Usually Suffer in Pedestrian Accidents?
- Soft Tissue Damage – This encompasses cuts, scrapes, contusions, tears, dislocations, sprains, and strains. While treatment and recovery for these injuries are easier and faster than more severe injuries, more complex cases of soft tissue damage can lead to severe pain, scarring, potentially fatal infections, and other long-term issues.
- Broken Bones – Pedestrians often suffer fractures on their hands, arms, legs, back, shoulders, feet, and wrists in accidents. Depending on the specific nature and severity of the fracture, bone fractures can be immensely painful and result in long-term issues with mobility. They can even result in amputations.
- Spinal Cord Injury (SCI) – Depending on the location and extent of the spinal cord damage, this can lead to partial or complete paralysis, even death. It usually requires long-term medical treatment and care.
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs) – Any injury to the head and brain, such as concussions and fractures, can be potentially life-changing or deadly. In some cases, even a seemingly minor blow to the head can cause severe brain damage.
Speak to Our Skilled Pinellas County Pedestrian Accident Lawyer
If you or a loved one has been hurt in a pedestrian accident in Pinellas County, you deserve fair compensation for all the pain and injuries you sustained, the money you lost to pay costly medical expenses, and the paychecks you did not receive because you couldn’t work. The Pinellas County pedestrian accident lawyers of Matthews Injury Law are here to ensure that you receive the financial compensation you’re entitled to.
You can arrange your free case review with one of our skilled Pinellas County pedestrian accident lawyers by giving us a call at 727-877-4301 or filling out our online form.