Florida Injury Lawyer Blog
A South Fort Myers woman, 22-years-old, was recently cited by beach officers for failing to yield the right of way to an elderly pedestrian in a crosswalk. The citation was the result of a pedestrian accident on Fort Myers Beach.
The South Fort Myers driver slammed her vehicle into a pedestrian who was crossing Estero Boulevard. The female driver now faces a mandatory court appearance, according to The News-Press.
The pedestrian accident happened in the crosswalk near the Holiday Inn. The elderly pedestrian was visually impaired and was using her cane to get across the road when the accident happened. Officials are still investigating the accident. The pedestrian, 81-years-old, was last reported to still be in the hospital but was listed in stable condition.
Our Fort Myers Beach accident lawyers understand that our local beach is one of the areas hottest spots to visit. It can also be one of the most dangerous spots in the area. During this time of year we’ve got visitors from all over the country making this their vacation destination. We’ve also got all of the locals enjoying their time away from work, soaking up some sun, catching some waves and hitting all of the hot spots along Estero Boulevard.
Unfortunately, with good times come large crowds and increased risks for accidents, especially pedestrian accidents. Drivers are asked to be especially cautious and alert when driving along our beach and in other areas where pedestrians are likely to be found, like in school zones and in residential neighborhoods. Safe and alert driving habits can help to preserve the safety of our area’s on-foot travelers.
“It’s not only during the tourist season, it’s off season as well, where we experience fatalities, pedestrians, bicycles, people getting hit by cars,” said Larry Kiker, Fort Myers Beach Mayor.
To help to keep pedestrians safe on our roadways, walkers are urged follow these safety tips from the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV):
-Always walk on sidewalks when they’re available.
-Only cross the street at crosswalks or at intersections. Jaywalking is dangerous!
-Dress so that motorists can see you. Wear bright-colored clothing. If you’re traveling at night, consider wearing reflective materials or carrying a flash light.
-Avoid walking while engaging in distractions. Put down the phone and take off the headphones. Pay attention to what’s going on around you.
-Always follow the pedestrian signal, not the overhead traffic light, when crossing at lighted intersections.
-Always make eye contact with motorists before crossing the street.
-Always walk predictably. Stay away from fast-traveling traffic.
-When there are no sidewalks available, walk facing road traffic.
-Avoid walking under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
“I mean, people are dying on the streets and when people are dying, something needs to be taken care of right away,” said Fort Myers Beach business owner and resident, Al Durrett.
Associates and Bruce L. Scheiner, Attorneys for the Injured, is a law firm that is committed to assisting those who have been the victims of pedestrian accidents in Fort Myers, Naples, Bonita Springs, Cape Coral and elsewhere through the South Florida area. Call us today to schedule a free and confidential consultation to discuss your rights. 1-800-283-2900.
More Blog Entries:
Elderly at Higher Risk for South Fort Myers Pedestrian Accidents, Florida Injury Lawyer Blog, February 13, 2012
