Walking around beautiful Fort Lauderdale is something many of us love to do, whether it’s enjoying the beach, heading to Las Olas, or just running errands. It’s a wonderful way to experience our vibrant city. But what happens when a leisurely stroll turns into something scary and unexpected, like a pedestrian accident?
If you or a loved one has been injured in a pedestrian accident, Winston Law Firm, a trusted Fort Lauderdale pedestrian accident lawyer, can help protect your rights and guide you through the legal process.
Florida Laws on Driver Responsibility in Pedestrian Accidents
In Florida, both drivers and pedestrians have legal duties, but drivers are expected to exercise greater caution especially near crosswalks, intersections, and school zones. Under Florida Statute §316.130, drivers must:
- Yield the right-of-way to pedestrians in marked crosswalks.
- Exercise due care to avoid colliding with any pedestrian.
- Use proper caution when approaching children, elderly persons, or individuals with disabilities.
When a driver breaks these laws and causes an injury, they can be held liable. Having an experienced Fort Lauderdale pedestrian accident attorney can make a vital difference in proving driver negligence.
Common Forms of Driver Negligence That Lead to Pedestrian Injuries
Driver negligence is the leading cause of pedestrian accidents. Common reckless behaviors include:
- Running Red Lights or Stop Signs: Ignoring signals puts pedestrians at risk.
- Distracted Driving: Taking eyes off the road endangers pedestrians.
- Failure to Yield During Turns: Drivers must check for pedestrians first.
- Speeding: Faster speeds reduce stopping ability.
- Driving Under the Influence: Impaired driving greatly increases danger.
If a driver’s negligence caused your injury, contact a Fort Lauderdale pedestrian accident lawyer to explore your legal options.
Proving Driver Liability After a Pedestrian Accident
To hold a driver responsible, you must show their negligence caused your injuries. Common evidence includes:
- Police reports detailing fault or violations
- Witness statements supporting your account
- Traffic or surveillance footage capturing the accident
- Accident reconstruction reports
- Medical records linking injuries to the crash
An experienced Fort Lauderdale pedestrian accident attorney will gather and present this evidence to maximize your chances of fair compensation.
Damages Available in a Fort Lauderdale Pedestrian Accident Case
Victims of pedestrian accidents may recover damages for:
- Medical Expenses: Costs for hospital care, surgeries, and rehab.
- Future Medical Needs: Ongoing therapy or long-term treatment.
- Lost Wages and Reduced Earning Capacity: Pay lost from time off work and future earning losses.
- Pain and Suffering: Compensation for physical pain and discomfort.
- Emotional Distress: Damages for anxiety, depression, or trauma.
- Permanent Disability or Disfigurement: Recovery for lasting injuries or changes in appearance.
- Loss of Enjoyment of Life: Compensation for no longer enjoying activities you once did.
If the driver acted recklessly such as driving drunk, you may also be entitled to punitive damages. A skilled Fort Lauderdale pedestrian accident attorney can help ensure you receive all the compensation you deserve.
Call a Fort Lauderdale Pedestrian Accident Lawyer Today
Florida law usually requires you to file a personal injury claim within two years of the accident. Waiting too long can hurt your chances of getting compensation.
If you’ve been injured in a Fort Lauderdale pedestrian accident, don’t face this alone. Winston Law Firm, serving clients in Fort Lauderdale and throughout Florida since 1989, is here to help you every step of the way.
Call us at (954) 475-9666 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation. We’re ready to listen and fight for the compensation you deserve.
