You probably understand the dangers of driving while distracted. But have you ever stopped to think that distracted walking could be just as deadly? Every year, pedestrians suffer injuries because of music players, cell phones, and conversations with other pedestrians. Anything that takes your focus off the sidewalk in front of you and the traffic around you could potentially lead to injuries in a distracted walking accident.

How does distracted walking lead to injuries?

Distracted walking leads to accidents in a number of different ways. In the most benign of cases, pedestrians can trip on an uneven sidewalk and fall. Tripping over curbs and falling down steps are also common. Running into a tree limb, light pole, or street sign seems comical, but can result in serious injuries. In the most dangerous accidents, distracted pedestrians step out in front of a car or fall into traffic.

Injuries sustained by distracted pedestrians vary based on the accident itself, but can include:

  • Cuts and scrapes
  • Bruises
  • Sprains and fractures
  • Serious head or neck injuries
  • Death

According to statistics compiled by Pew Charitable Trust, emergency room data from across the country shows that pedestrian accidents involving cell phone use rose 35 percent since 2010. In 2012, about 78,000 pedestrians suffered severe enough injuries to require medical care. Mobile devices – including iPods, smartphones, and other portable electronics – played a role in about ten percent of these incidents.

How can distracted walking affect your eligibility for injury compensation?

Depending on the circumstances of the accident, you could be partially liable – or even fully liable – if evidence shows your distraction played a part in causing a pedestrian accident. This could reduce or eliminate your chances of being able to recover compensation for your damages.

Florida personal injury cases rely on a rule known as pure comparative fault. This allows you to recover damages even if you were almost totally at fault in an incident. It does, however, reduce your potential compensation by the degree you were liable in causing the accident.

This means if you are 90 percent at fault because you stepped out into traffic while texting, your potential compensation only covers up to 10 percent of your damages.

How can Montero Law Center help?

The pedestrian accident attorneys at the Montero Law Center works with victims of pedestrian accidents to ensure they receive the compensation they deserve for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. If you suffered an injury in a Ft. Lauderdale pedestrian versus car collision, contact us today at 954-767-6500 to learn how we can help you.