Why more people are being seriously injured in Port St. Lucie hit-and-run accidents than ever before
We’ve noticed a worrying trend lately on the Treasure Coast. Hit-and-run accidents in Port St. Lucie are becoming more frequent. And we’re not alone in our assessment. According to state officials, in 2021, hit-and-run accidents in Florida increased by an astonishing 17% over the previous year.
Locally, hit-and-run accidents in Port St. Lucie have been on a dangerous upswing.
- Earlier this month, a Port St. Lucie man was struck on his bicycle by a hit-and-run driver and left with critical injuries.
- In June, a tow truck driver in Port St. Lucie was struck and seriously injured by a vehicle that fled the scene as he was unloading a car.
- In May, a Port St. Lucie woman was arrested for striking and killing a pedestrian on the Crosstown Parkway and fleeing the scene.
A disturbing trend developing in Port St. Lucie
Why are hit-and-run accidents in Port St. Lucie becoming more frequent? While inflation is causing more people to drive without insurance and drunk driving rates have increased since the pandemic, here are three shocking statistics about hit-and-run accidents within our local community.
Over 70 percent of hit-and-run fatalities involve pedestrians and bicyclists
The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles found that over 70 percent of hit-and-run fatalities involve pedestrians and bicyclists. Cities are becoming more “walkable”, distracted driving is increasing, and drivers are more likely not to stop when the accident doesn’t involve another vehicle.
On average, 25- to 34-year-olds are more likely to die after a hit-and-run than any other age group
An independent study found that 25- to 34-year-olds made up the largest portion of hit-and-run fatalities, accounting for 22 percent of all deaths. Why? Statistics show this age group walks or bikes at higher rates than other demographics.
A person who is driving under the influence is 23 times more likely to flee the scene of an accident
Data consistently shows that when a driver is impaired, he or she is more likely to leave the scene of an accident. There are several reasons why. First, drunk drivers are often not thinking clearly or rationally. Second, the driver knows he or she is drunk and wants to avoid being caught in that state. Third, drunk drivers don’t realize they hit a person or vehicle because they are cognitively impaired.
How to avoid a hit-and-run (pedestrian and bicyclist safety)
- Increase your visibility by wearing bright colors and reflective clothing.
- Only cross streets at designated crosswalks.
- Do not walk or cycle in the road; stay on sidewalks, in bicycle lanes, or at least 20 feet away from the road.
- Avoid distractions, such as texting, and remain alert.
- Never walk or cycle along roadways if you have been drinking.
What to do after a hit-and-run
If you have been involved in a hit-and-run, follow these critical steps:
- Do not pursue the fleeing vehicle.
- Call 911 immediately, especially if there are injuries.
- While waiting for the police, try to remember details about the fleeing vehicle, such as car model, color, license plate, and driver description.
- Have the police complete an accident report at the scene.
- Seek medical help if needed, whether at the emergency room or urgent care.
- Contact an experienced and local personal injury attorney right away.
Injured in a hit-and-run accident in Port St. Lucie?
Call Hoskins, Turco, Lloyd & Lloyd immediately at 866-930-6435
If you are involved and/or injured in a hit-and-run accident in Port St. Lucie, Fort Pierce, Vero Beach or Okeechobee, the best thing you can do is call our office and speak with one of our car accident attorneys. Free of charge, we will set-up an in-person or over-the-phone consultation to help you understand your rights and what your next steps should be.
We have experience handling hit-and-run cases and we have the resources to launch our own investigation into holding the negligent party responsible.
The Port St. Lucie Hit-and-Run Attorneys at Hoskins, Turco, Lloyd & Lloyd have over 40 years of experience helping thousands of injury victims and their families recover from serious accidents on the Treasure Coast. We’re experienced, local, and on your side.
Schedule your FREE case review by calling 866-930-6435
