Jacksonville Pedestrian Accident Lawyers

Resources to Recover Maximum Possible Compensation

If you've been involved in a pedestrian accident in Jacksonville, FL, you may be dealing with serious injuries, medical expenses, and lost wages. Burnetti, P.A. understands the challenges pedestrian accident victims face and is here to help you pursue the compensation you deserve. Our experienced Jacksonville pedestrian accident lawyers are dedicated to providing compassionate, effective legal representation and will guide you through each step of the legal process.

To schedule a free case evaluation, contact us at (888) 444-8508 today.

Florida Pedestrian Laws

In Florida, specific laws are designed to protect pedestrians and reduce the risk of accidents. These laws outline the responsibilities of both pedestrians and drivers, setting clear guidelines for safely sharing the road.

• Crosswalk Right of Way: In Florida, drivers must yield to pedestrians in both marked and unmarked crosswalks. Pedestrians have the right of way, but they are encouraged to be aware of their surroundings, as not all drivers comply with this law.
• Sidewalk Rules: Pedestrians are required to use sidewalks where they are available. When there is no sidewalk, pedestrians should walk on the shoulder facing traffic, which improves their visibility to approaching drivers.
• Intersections: Florida law mandates that drivers yield the right of way to pedestrians when making turns at intersections. Drivers must be vigilant in these areas, as pedestrians often cross streets at intersections and may not always be immediately visible.
• Prohibited Zones: Pedestrians are not permitted to cross highways or restricted zones with barriers or signs prohibiting crossing. Following these restrictions can help reduce accidents and prevent dangerous situations on high-speed roadways.

Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents

Pedestrian accidents can occur for various reasons, often stemming from negligence or inattention by drivers. Below are some of the most common causes we encounter in Jacksonville:

• Distracted Driving: Texting, phone use, or other distractions can lead to drivers failing to notice pedestrians. Distracted driving is one of the leading causes of pedestrian accidents.
• Speeding: Drivers who exceed the speed limit are more likely to cause severe injuries in a pedestrian accident. Speeding reduces the driver’s reaction time, increasing the likelihood of a collision with a pedestrian.
• Failure to Yield: Some drivers neglect to yield to pedestrians at crosswalks or intersections, putting pedestrians at risk. This often happens when drivers are in a hurry or don’t expect pedestrians to be crossing.
• Intoxicated Driving: Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs can impair a driver’s ability to see and react to pedestrians. Intoxicated drivers pose a severe risk to everyone on the road, especially pedestrians.
• Poor Weather Conditions: Rain, fog, and low visibility can make it difficult for drivers to see pedestrians. Drivers are expected to exercise additional caution in these situations, but accidents may still occur due to weather-related hazards.
• Low Light or Nighttime: Many pedestrian accidents happen after dark, when visibility is reduced. Drivers may not be able to see pedestrians, especially if they are not wearing reflective clothing or if the area is poorly lit.

How to Recover Compensation from a Pedestrian Accident

If you’ve been injured in a pedestrian accident, you have legal options to pursue compensation. The process generally involves filing a car accident claim or pursuing a personal injury lawsuit, depending on the specifics of the accident and the insurance policies involved.

Car Accident Claims

In many cases, pedestrian accident victims can file a claim with the at-fault driver’s insurance company. This claim may help cover medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages. However, insurance companies may attempt to downplay your injuries or deny liability. An experienced Jacksonville pedestrian accident lawyer from Burnetti, P.A. can negotiate with the insurer on your behalf, aiming to secure a fair settlement.

Personal Injury Lawsuits

If the insurance claim does not result in adequate compensation, or if the driver was uninsured, you may choose to file a personal injury lawsuit. In this case, you can seek compensation for medical bills, rehabilitation costs, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. Burnetti, P.A. will guide you through each step of the lawsuit, helping gather evidence, consulting experts, and building a strong case.

Comparative Negligence in Florida

In Florida, both parties can be assigned a percentage of fault in an accident. This is known as comparative negligence. If you are found partially responsible for the accident (for example, by crossing outside a crosswalk), your compensation may be reduced by your percentage of fault. Having a knowledgeable Jacksonville pedestrian accident attorney by your side is essential to ensure your rights are protected, and that you’re not unfairly assigned blame.

At Burnetti, P.A., we are dedicated to supporting accident victims throughout their recovery journey. Our team understands that every pedestrian accident case is unique, and we take the time to provide personalized, compassionate representation.

Call (888) 444-8508 or contact us online to request a free case review.