The Lawler Firm has established a reputation for excellence in personal injury law. As the firm’s founding partner, I have extensive experience handling many types of pedestrian accident cases, achieving favorable outcomes for clients throughout Tampa Bay. Centrally located in Brandon, my office is dedicated to providing you with stellar legal representation and service.
Pedestrian Accident Rates
Pedestrian activity is an integral part of every major city. It is especially important in Florida, where children, students, and retirees mingle with tourists. Our cities boast some of the best-planned communities in the nation, where everything you need is within walking distance. Sadly, not all areas of Florida are as pedestrian-friendly, especially at busy crosswalks or in heavy traffic. Every year, nearly 5,000 people die in pedestrian accidents, which claim 12 lives per day. Fortunately, the number of fatalities is slowly decreasing, with fewer injuries reported each year. Nevertheless, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration indicates that pedestrian crashes remain largely unreported; only a fraction of hospital visits are ever recorded by police.
Pedestrians in Florida
Pedestrian accidents are alarmingly common in Florida, home to the largest concentrations of retirement communities in the United States. While these crashes are equally injurious for victims of every age, they are one of the leading causes of fatality among the elderly. Even if not fatal, the serious injuries incurred through the accident often require extensive surgery, including hip replacement. Subsequent complications and further loss of mobility eventually take their toll on these patients. Pedestrian accidents are therefore a large contributing factor to many wrongful deaths in the state. Crashes involving pedestrians and motor vehicles also cause serious injuries, including skin lacerations, bruises, fractures, broken bones and teeth.
Drivers Owe Pedestrians a Legal Duty of Care
Most pedestrian accidents involve negligence, or the breach of a legal duty. In traffic, drivers owe pedestrians a duty of “reasonable care.” Any traffic violation, intentional or reckless conduct breaches this duty. Motorists can be negligent by being drunk and driving while intoxicated, failing to pay attention, or refusing to yield the right of way. If this negligent behavior causes an accident resulting that injures a pedestrian, the driver may be liable for damages. Florida law prohibits certain conduct when a pedestrian is in a crosswalk. When the roadway has no signals, the driver of a vehicle must:
- Stop at the crosswalk if a sign so indicates and
- Remain stopped to allow the pedestrian to cross;
- Yield when a pedestrian “steps into” the crosswalk and
- Is in the “half” of the roadway where the vehicle is traveling or
- When the pedestrian is approaching “so closely” from the other side as to be in danger
- Never overtake or pass a vehicle stopped at a crosswalk to permit a pedestrian crossing
Pedestrian Precautions and Plan Following an Accident
To avoid danger, pedestrians should limit crossing to marked intersections and avoid crossing between adjacent intersections with signals. In a marked crosswalk, always cross at right angles to the roadway and yield to all vehicles whenever possible. Look closely before leaving a curb or another place of safety. Once the pedestrian sets foot in the crosswalk, it is the driver’s duty to yield the right of way. If you are hit by a driver, seek medical attention immediately. Report the accident to the police and retain all copies of any documents relating to the crash. This may include the driver’s information, any police reports, witness statements, medical bills, and lost income resulting from the injury. These are all costs the negligent driver must pay.
Maximize Your Recovery by Seeking Qualified Counsel
If you were injured in a pedestrian accident, contact me today. I have successfully handled all kinds of pedestrian accident cases, ensuring that victims are fully compensated for their harm. Even if you think you were partially at fault, the driver may still be liable. Because every case is fact-specific, you should discuss the details of your accident more thoroughly during your free consultation. I understand that accidents are traumatic and very expensive. That is why I am dedicated to making sure all liable parties bear their share of the burden. I will aggressively pursue your case to see that you obtain the compensation you deserve. Let me advocate for your interests while you get back on your feet. Call now. (813) 413-8828. Free Consultation.