A 54-year-old St. Petersburg man was tragically struck and killed on July 14th in a fatal Pedestrian accident, CBS Tampa reported. The victim was crossing 18 Ave S. From the north, when he was hit by a Volkswagen Passat traveling westbound, approaching 19th St. S.
The accident was reported at 10:17 p.m. According to the news report, it was raining heavily at the time of the collision. The victim was taken to a nearby hospital where he unfortunately did not survive his injuries. Police reported that the driver remained at the scene of the crash and showed no signs of impairment.
Our thoughts go out to the victim of this crash. Losing a loved one unexpectedly is heartbreaking and devastating.
Cause of the July 14th St. Petersburg Pedestrian Accident
Police are continuing to investigate the cause of the crash. Very little additional information was available in a press release posted on July 15th. Eventually, the officer or officers investigating the pedestrian accident will prepare a police report about what happens. This may determine fault in the accident, or a determination of fault may not be included.
Determining Liability For Fatal Accidents
The police report is really just a starting point in an investigation, and will not determine liability. Even if police do determine a party is responsible for an accident, it does not automatically mean that party will be held liable for an accident. It is common for personal injury attorneys to hire an independent third party to investigate an accident and determine fault. If the driver was distracted, speeding, or operating their vehicle negligently, they may be civilly liable for the victim’s wrongful death. The family members of the victim may pursue a wrongful death claim even if the victim was partially at fault, or if the driver did not receive a traffic citation.
Pedestrians are Most Vulnerable at Night
The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles reports that there have been 377 pedestrian fatalities so far in 2021. In 2020, there were 712 pedestrian fatalities in Florida. Unfortunately, a high percentage of pedestrian accidents happen between sunset and sunrise, when visibility is reduced. According to the Governors Highway Safety Association, 75% of pedestrian accidents occur at night.
Florida is one of seven states (along with California, Arizona, Texas, Georgia, North Carolina, and New York) that account for more than half of all pedestrian fatalities in the U.S. Among the 50 states, Florida has the second highest pedestrian death rate.
Contact a St. Petersburg Pedestrian Accident Lawyer
The Coleman Law Group has represented many victims of pedestrian accidents. We understand how overwhelming and difficult it is to lose a family member. Family members may not understand the full scope of their legal rights, and their options to pursue liability. Before you accept any compensation for an accident, or accept a determination that you are not entitled to compensation, contact us. We will listen to your story, answer your questions, and provide legal advice. Our consultation is always free, with no obligation or pressure. If we represent you in your claim, we will not charge any legal fees unless we recover money for you.
The post Pedestrian Killed in July 14th St. Petersburg Pedestrian Accident appeared first on Personal Injury Law | Tampa, St. Petersburg, Clearwater.
