Elfers, FL — Pedestrian Hit, Killed While Crossing the Street

Elfers, FL (November 25th, 2024) – A 43-year-old New Port Richey woman was hit and killed by a propane truck while crossing the road on Monday morning in Elfers. 

The fatal pedestrian accident occurred at approximately 5:45 a.m. at the intersection of Grand Boulevard and State Road 54. A propane tanker, driven by a 62-year-old Hudson man, was making a turn under a red traffic signal and hit the woman. She was in the crosswalk and had walked into the vehicle’s path.

What Are Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents?

The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles reported more than 10,000 pedestrian accidents occurred across the state in 2022. Several factors commonly play a role in these types of collisions. Some of the most common causes of pedestrian-involved crashes include:

Driver-Related Behaviors

Many fatal pedestrian accidents can be traced back to driver behavior and decisions. Distracted driving, particularly due to smartphone use, has become one of the leading causes of such collisions. Drivers engrossed in their phones often fail to notice pedestrians until it’s too late. 

Additionally, we frequently see cases where drivers fail to yield at crosswalks, speed, or operate vehicles while under the influence of drugs or alcohol. The dawn and dusk hours can pose particular challenges, as reduced visibility combined with rush hour traffic creates dangerous conditions for pedestrians. 

Infrastructure Challenges

A number of Florida’s pedestrian fatalities can be attributed to inadequate infrastructure. Many cities struggle with insufficient lighting, particularly in residential areas where pedestrian traffic is common. Missing or poorly maintained crosswalks may force pedestrians to make dangerous crossing decisions. At the same time, the absence of pedestrian signals at key intersections creates confusion for both drivers and pedestrians.

High-speed roads cutting through residential areas and the limited availability of sidewalks in many communities further compound the risks to pedestrians. They contribute to an environment where pedestrian accidents become more likely.

Pedestrian-Related Factors

While drivers often bear primary responsibility in fatal accidents, some pedestrian behaviors can contribute to or exacerbate dangerous situations. Distracted walking, particularly when pedestrians are focused on mobile devices, has emerged as a substantial safety concern. Other contributing factors include crossing outside designated crosswalks, wearing dark-colored clothing at night without reflective materials, and walking while impaired by drugs or alcohol.

Legal Options for Victims and Families in Florida

Losing a loved one in a pedestrian accident can be emotionally and financially challenging for families in Florida. Those left behind may consider consulting with a Clearwater wrongful death lawyer to discuss their options, which may include pursuing legal action.

Filing a Wrongful Death Claim

Under Florida law, when a pedestrian death occurs due to another’s negligence, the surviving family members have the right to pursue a wrongful death claim. Such claims must be filed by the personal representative of the decedent’s estate. The personal representative acts on behalf of the estate and for the benefit of surviving family members, ensuring their interests are protected throughout the legal process. Surviving relatives who may benefit from such claims generally include spouses, children, or parents of the deceased.

Recoverable Damages

Through a Florida wrongful death lawsuit, there are various forms of compensation available to families of the deceased. Recoverable damages often include:

• Medical expenses incurred before the death
• Funeral and burial costs
• Lost future income
• Loss of companionship, guidance, and emotional support

A pedestrian accident attorney can explain how car accident settlements are calculated, and help families assess their total damages to help them seek fair and full compensation.

How to Avoid Fatal Pedestrian Accidents

With proper safety and precautions, many fatal pedestrian accidents in Clearwater are avoidable. Therefore, Florida drivers and pedestrians alike should remain vigilant and take proactive steps to prevent such collisions.

What Can Drivers Do?

Motorists should always scan for pedestrians in urban areas and near schools, parks, shopping centers, and other areas where foot traffic is common. Further, they should reduce their speed in residential areas and be prepared to stop, as children may suddenly dart into the street. When turning at intersections, drivers should check twice for pedestrians who may be crossing, especially during dawn, dusk, or nighttime hours when visibility is reduced.

Additionally, drivers should put away all distractions while driving. Studies have shown that a motorist taking their eyes off the road for just five seconds while traveling at 55mph is equivalent to driving the length of a football field while blindfolded. They should also take care to stop completely at crosswalks and never attempt to pass other vehicles at crosswalks, as they may be yielding to pedestrians not yet seen.

What Should Pedestrians Do?

Pedestrians can also take steps to reduce their risk of fatal accidents by following some essential safety practices. To this end, they should always use designated crosswalks and wait for proper signals before crossing. Pedestrians should also avoid the temptation to jaywalk, even if it means walking a bit further to reach a proper crossing point. It’s also advisable for them to make eye contact with drivers before crossing to make sure they’ve seen them and intend to stop.

To improve their safety, pedestrians should take steps to increase their visibility, especially at night. They should wear light-colored or reflective clothing. Additionally, pedestrians may consider carrying a flashlight or using their phone’s flashlight feature when walking after dark. When walking, people should also stay alert and avoid distractions, such as headphones or mobile devices, while crossing the street. If they must walk on roads without sidewalks, pedestrians should walk facing traffic and as far to the left as possible.

In an instant, pedestrian accidents can occur in Florida, leaving people fatally injured. Having more than 30 years of experience, our attorney at Magazine & Light Law Group, Jim Magazine, understands the heavy emotional and financial weight that such a loss can place on the families left behind. If you have lost a loved one in a pedestrian accident caused by a negligent driver, you may have options. Call us today to discuss your case at 727-499-9900. 

Jim Magazine

James (Jim) Magazine is a Florida Board Certified Civil Trial lawyer who has spent his career helping injured victims. Jim is licensed to practice law in the State of Florida since 1990 and is also admitted to practice at the Appellate level and admitted to the United States Supreme Court.

Years of Experience: More than 30 years
Florida Registration Status: Active
Bar Admissions:
Clearwater Bar Association
West Pasco Bar Association