Pedestrian Accident
Understanding Pedestrian Accidents Involving Cars in Florida: Causes, Laws, and Prevention
Florida is known for its warm weather, beautiful coastlines, and busy urban centers. But beyond the sunshine and tourism lies a sobering reality: Florida consistently ranks among the top states in the nation for pedestrian accidents. With high population density in cities like Miami, Orlando, Tampa, and Jacksonville, combined with a steady flow of tourists unfamiliar with local roads, the risk to pedestrians is unfortunately higher than in many other parts of the U.S.Barnes Cohen & Sullivan has the experience to take on your case while you or a loved one recovers.
The Scope of the Problem
According to data from the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV), there are thousands of pedestrian-involved traffic crashes each year. In 2023 alone, Florida recorded more than 9,000 pedestrian crashes, resulting in over 700 fatalities and many more serious injuries. These numbers not only represent human tragedies but also highlight systemic safety issues in infrastructure, enforcement, and public awareness.
Florida’s pedestrian fatality rate is consistently higher than the national average. A 2022 report by Smart Growth America ranked Florida cities among the most dangerous for pedestrians. Factors such as wide roads, fast speed limits, inadequate crosswalks, and urban sprawl all contribute to this growing concern.
Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents
Several contributing factors lead to pedestrian collisions with motor vehicles. These include:
Common Causes of Pedestrian AccidentsDriver Negligence
Many accidents occur due to distracted driving, speeding, failing to yield at crosswalks, or impaired driving.
Pedestrian Behavior
Pedestrians also bear some responsibility. Jaywalking, crossing outside designated crosswalks, and walking while distracted or impaired (e.g., using a smartphone or under the influence of alcohol) can increase the risk of accidents.
Poor Infrastructure
Lack of sidewalks, pedestrian signals, lighting, and clearly marked crosswalks can increase the risk of accidents. In many Florida communities, especially in suburban or semi-rural areas, infrastructure doesn’t always prioritize pedestrian safety.
High-Speed Roadways in Urban Areas
Many roads in Florida’s urban environments are designed for fast-moving vehicles rather than safe pedestrian travel. This mismatch leads to increased severity of injuries when crashes occur.
Tourism and Population Growth
Florida’s status as a tourist hub means roads are often filled with visitors unfamiliar with local traffic rules. Rapid population growth also means more cars and pedestrians sharing roadways, creating greater potential for conflict.
Florida Laws Protecting Pedestrians
Florida law is clear when it comes to pedestrian rights and responsibilities:
Right-of-Way at Crosswalks: Drivers must yield to pedestrians in marked crosswalks and at intersections. Failure to do so can result in citations or legal liability in the event of a crash.
Obligations of Pedestrians: Pedestrians must obey traffic signals and should not suddenly leave a curb or walk into the path of a vehicle that is too close to stop safely.
Crossing Rules: Pedestrians should use sidewalks and crosswalks when available. Crossing mid-block or outside crosswalks (jaywalking) can reduce legal protections and increase liability.
Florida’s comparative negligence system means that in a legal case, both the driver and the pedestrian can be found partially at fault. For example, if a pedestrian was jaywalking but the driver was speeding, both may be assigned a percentage of fault, which will affect compensation.
Legal and Financial Consequences
Pedestrian accidents often result in serious, life-altering injuries such as broken bones, traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, and psychological trauma. In the worst cases, they lead to fatalities.
Victims and their families may pursue compensation through personal injury or wrongful death claims. Compensation can cover: Medical expenses, lost wages and future earning capacity, pain and suffering, funeral and burial costs (in fatal accidents). Liability often hinges on evidence like traffic camera footage, witness statements, and police reports. That’s why it’s critical to consult with an experienced personal injury attorney immediately following an accident.
Preventing Pedestrian Accidents
Reducing pedestrian accidents in Florida requires a shared responsibility between drivers, pedestrians, and local governments. Some steps include:
For Drivers:
Always yield to pedestrians in crosswalks.
Slow down in urban areas and near schools or parks.
Avoid distractions like texting or adjusting the GPS while driving.
Be alert for pedestrians at night, especially in poorly lit areas.
For Pedestrians:
Use marked crosswalks and obey traffic signals.
Make eye contact with drivers before crossing.
Wear visible clothing at night or in poor visibility.
Avoid distractions like phones or headphones when crossing streets.
Pedestrian safety in Florida is a critical issue that affects every community. With high traffic volumes, tourism, and aging infrastructure, it’s no surprise that pedestrian accidents remain a top concern. However, with the right combination of education, enforcement, and engineering, we can reduce the number of tragedies and create safer streets for everyone. Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor, remember that awareness and caution can save lives. For those affected by pedestrian accidents, seeking legal counsel and support is essential to understanding your rights and recovering fully. Our team at Barnes Cohen & Sullivan is ready to handle your case so you and your loved ones can focus on healing.