Florida Pedestrian Accident Lawyers

Collisions between pedestrians and cars, trucks, or buses often result in severe injuries and fatalities. Crosswalks, parking lots, sidewalks, and other heavily trafficked areas are common sites for pedestrian accidents. If you have been struck by a vehicle and believe you have a claim, a Florida pedestrian accident lawyer at Burnetti, P.A. may be able to help you.

Dial (888) 444-8508 or reach out to us online to discuss your legal options in full.

What is a Pedestrian Accident?

A pedestrian accident occurs when a motor vehicle—such as a car, truck, or motorcycle—strikes a person who is walking or standing outside of a vehicle. These accidents can happen in crosswalks, intersections, sidewalks, parking lots, or even residential neighborhoods.

Pedestrians are particularly vulnerable in these incidents because they lack any physical protection. As a result, injuries can be severe or even fatal. At Burnetti, P.A., we help victims understand their rights and explore all available legal options following a pedestrian accident.

Florida Pedestrian Laws

Florida law provides certain protections for pedestrians, but it also outlines responsibilities for both drivers and pedestrians. Understanding these laws is crucial in determining fault and building a strong legal case.

Key Florida pedestrian laws include:

• Right of Way at Crosswalks: Drivers must yield to pedestrians in marked and unmarked crosswalks at intersections.
• Traffic Signals: Pedestrians must obey traffic signals and only cross streets when permitted.
• Use of Sidewalks: Where sidewalks are provided, pedestrians must use them rather than walking on the roadway.
• Jaywalking: Crossing a street outside of a crosswalk or intersection (jaywalking) is prohibited and can impact the outcome of a legal claim.

Even if a pedestrian is partially at fault, Florida's comparative negligence law may still allow them to recover damages, although the award may be reduced by their percentage of fault.

Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents

Pedestrian accidents can happen for a wide range of reasons, but many stem from driver negligence or disregard for traffic laws. Common causes include:

• Distracted Driving: Texting, talking on the phone, or using GPS can take a driver’s eyes off the road.
• Speeding: High speeds reduce a driver’s reaction time and increase the severity of injuries.
• Failure to Yield: Drivers who ignore crosswalks or fail to yield the right-of-way pose serious dangers.
• Driving Under the Influence: Alcohol or drug-impaired drivers are more likely to hit pedestrians.
• Poor Visibility: Nighttime driving, bad weather, or dark clothing can make it harder to see pedestrians.
• Illegal Turns: Drivers making unlawful or abrupt turns may not check for pedestrians in crosswalks.

Whatever the cause, Burnetti, P.A. investigates every angle to uncover evidence and determine liability.

Pedestrian Accident Injuries

Even though a vehicle is substantially larger than a pedestrian, a pedestrian may not always see the vehicle before it strikes; even if the pedestrian does see the vehicle, they may not be able to move fast enough to avoid a collision. The resulting injuries may be devastating and include:

• Broken bones
• Lacerations
• Severe burns
• “Road rash”
• Spinal cord injuries
• Traumatic brain injuries
• Loss of life

Pedestrian accident victims may require medical care, hospitalization, surgeries, physical therapy, or rehabilitation. The quality of life may never return to the way it was before the accident.

Who is Liable for a Pedestrian Accident?

Determining liability is a crucial part of any pedestrian accident case. In Florida, several parties may be held responsible:

• The Driver: Often the primary party at fault, especially if they were speeding, distracted, or intoxicated.
• The Pedestrian: If they were jaywalking or not following traffic signals, partial liability may apply.
• Municipal Entities: If poor road design, malfunctioning traffic signals, or lack of signage contributed to the accident.
• Vehicle Manufacturers: If a defect or malfunction played a role in the accident.

Compensation for Pedestrian Accident Victims

If you were injured in a pedestrian accident, you may be eligible to recover damages for:

• Medical bills and future medical care
• Lost income and reduced earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Rehabilitation and therapy costs
• Permanent disability or disfigurement
• Wrongful death (in fatal accident cases)

FAQs About Pedestrian Accident Claims in FL

What should I do after being hit by a car as a pedestrian?

Seek medical attention immediately, report the accident to the police, gather witness information, and consult a qualified Florida pedestrian accident attorney before speaking with insurance adjusters.

Can I still recover compensation if I was partially at fault?

Yes. Under Florida’s modified comparative negligence law, you can still recover damages if you were less than 51% at fault. However, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.

How long do I have to file a claim?

In Florida, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is generally two years from the date of the accident. For wrongful death claims, it’s also two years. It’s important to act quickly so that critical evidence isn’t lost.

What if the driver who hit me was uninsured?

You may still be able to recover compensation through your own uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage or explore legal options against the at-fault driver personally.

Do I need a lawyer for a pedestrian accident case?

Yes. Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts. An experienced Florida pedestrian accident attorney can negotiate aggressively on your behalf, gather crucial evidence, and represent you in court if necessary.

Seeking Maximum Compensation for Pedestrian Accidents

If you were injured due to a driver’s negligence or a defective car part, a pedestrian accident lawyer at Burnetti, P.A. may be able to help you fight for maximum compensation. To advocate for clients across Florida, our offices are located in Lakeland, Tampa, Clearwater, and Sebring.

If you believe you have a pedestrian accident claim, call (888) 444-8508 for a free case evaluation.