Fort Lauderdale
Fort Lauderdale Pedestrian Accident Attorney
Fort Lauderdale Pedestrian Accident Lawyer
If you were in a pedestrian accident in Fort Lauderdale, you may be entitled to compensation. At Schilling & Silvers Personal Injury & Car Accident Lawyers, our Fort Lauderdale pedestrian accident lawyers understand how stressful these accidents can be, including physically, emotionally, and financially. We’re here to help you get the justice and compensation you deserve.
Call (954) 869-9533 now for a free consultation. We are available 24/7 and charge no fees unless we win your case.
Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents in Fort Lauderdale
Florida consistently ranks among the most dangerous states for pedestrians. According to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, hundreds of pedestrians are injured or killed in Broward County each year, with many incidents occurring on high-traffic roads like Sunrise Boulevard, Broward Boulevard, and U.S.-1.
Pedestrian accidents often happen due to driver negligence. Common causes include:
- Distracted driving such as texting, eating, adjusting GPS
- Speeding, especially in residential or school zones
- Failure to yield at crosswalks
- Running red Lights or stop signs
- Impaired driving under alcohol, drugs, fatigue
- Poor visibility or inadequate street lighting
- Unsafe road design and lack of pedestrian infrastructure
Who Is Liable in a Fort Lauderdale Pedestrian Accident?
Pedestrians have little to no protection in a collision. Even a low-speed impact can cause catastrophic injuries like broken bones, traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, and internal bleeding.
Identifying the liable party is crucial for building a strong claim. In pedestrian accident cases in South Florida, the following may be held responsible:
- Negligent drivers who fail to obey traffic laws
- Government agencies for unsafe roads, faulty signals, or poor lighting
- Vehicle owners who let unlicensed or reckless drivers use their car
- Property owners of hazardous conditions forced the pedestrian into the street
- Pedestrians themselves (partially, under Florida’s comparative negligence rule)
Our legal team will investigate every angle of your case to ensure every liable party is held accountable.
Florida Pedestrian Laws You Should Know
Under Florida Statute § 316.130, pedestrians generally have the right of way in crosswalks. However, both drivers and pedestrians must follow traffic control signals. Florida’s laws state:
- Vehicles must yield to pedestrians in marked and unmarked crosswalks
- Drivers turning at intersections must stop for pedestrians already crossing
- Pedestrians must obey pedestrian traffic signals when present
- Drivers must use due care to avoid striking pedestrians, even outside of crosswalks
Violating these laws may result in civil and criminal penalties. In accident claims, they also play a vital role in proving negligence.
Compensation You May Be Entitled to After a Pedestrian Accident
If you were injured in a pedestrian accident in Fort Lauderdale, you may be eligible for both economic and non-economic damages:
- Emergency room visits and hospitalization
- Ongoing medical treatment and rehabilitation
- Lost wages and reduced earning potential
- Assistive devices and home care services
- Property damage of clothing or personal items
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Disability or disfigurement
- Loss of consortium
In cases of extreme negligence, punitive damages may also be awarded. And if a loved one was killed in a pedestrian accident, Schilling & Silvers can file a wrongful death claim on your behalf.
How Our Fort Lauderdale Pedestrian Accident Attorneys Can Help
When you partner with Schilling & Silvers Personal Injury & Car Accident Lawyers, you’re getting a team that brings decades of experience in pedestrian accident law and a dedicated advocate focused on your recovery and future. Here’s how we help clients win pedestrian accident cases in South Florida:
- Conduct a thorough investigation of your accident
- Gather key evidence: video footage, witness statements, medical records
- Work with experts in accident reconstruction and medical evaluation
- Handle all negotiations with insurance companies
- Fight for maximum compensation, even if we have to go to trial
Insurance companies often try to shift blame to pedestrians to reduce payouts. Let our experienced team protect your rights and handle the legal battle while you focus on healing.
We’re Ready When You Are
If you’ve been injured, the clock is ticking. Let’s talk! We’ll review your case for free, explain your rights, and help you move forward with confidence.
NO HAIR – NO FEES UNLESS WE WIN.
Call Us
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1-800-223-CALL
NO HAIR – NO FEES UNLESS WE WIN.
Call Us
Now
(954) 225-8717
How Schilling & Silvers Personal Injury & Car Accident Lawyers Can Help After a Pedestrian Accident in Fort Lauderdale
Recovering from a pedestrian accident isn’t just about healing physically; the financial and emotional toll can be equally challenging. Whether the accident happened in a parking lot or while crossing one of Fort Lauderdale’s bustling streets, victims often face daunting medical bills and a significant loss of income due to time away from work.
At our law firm, our seasoned Fort Lauderdale pedestrian accident lawyers commit themselves to championing the rights of injured victims. With a track record of securing millions for our clients, our team is excellent at understanding the complexities of Florida personal injury law.
Having worked with hundreds of clients in situations like yours, we understand the intricacies of pedestrian accident claims. When you entrust your case to Schilling & Silvers Personal Injury & Car Accident Lawyers, our legal team will:
- Establish Liability – Through thorough investigation and evidence-gathering, we’ll pinpoint the responsible parties and build a compelling case on your behalf.
- Manage Insurance Negotiations – As you focus on healing, we’ll handle all interactions with insurance companies, ensuring that you aren’t short-changed or unjustly blamed.
- Defend Your Rights – Should insurance providers attempt to shift the blame onto you, our attorneys will stand firm in your defense.
- Engage Experts – To determine the actual value of your claim, we’ll collaborate with specialists who can accurately quantify your injuries’ monetary, physical, and emotional impact.
- Provide Continuous Legal Counsel – Throughout your legal journey, we’ll offer sound advice and guidance, ensuring that you’re informed and empowered at every stage.
If you are dealing with the effects of a pedestrian accident in Fort Lauderdale, remember that Schilling & Silvers Personal Injury & Car Accident Lawyers is only a phone call away. We invite you to connect with our pedestrian accident attorneys in Fort Lauderdale for a free consultation, where we can discuss the best course of action tailored to your situation.
Florida's Crosswalk and Pedestrian Laws
The Sunshine State, Florida, has rules and regulations for ensuring pedestrians’ safety. While crosswalk laws vary widely across the U.S., Florida’s specific pedestrian regulations aim to protect those navigating its streets on foot. One of the crucial statutes governing pedestrian safety in the state is in Florida § 316.130.
The Pedestrian Control Signal Law is an important rule that not just pedestrian accident lawyers in Fort Lauderdale should know, it is one all Florida pedestrians should know. This rule makes it plain that pedestrians must only cross the street with a green signal and do so with caution. A red light, however, requires pedestrians to stay in their spot and not attempt to cross until they have safely reached a median or the curb.
However, it is not simply a matter of following signals. Pedestrians have the right of way in a variety of situations, according to Florida law. This includes crossing at controlled intersections, whether or not crosswalks are marked, and any other specified area that ensures their safe passage. This means that cars have to give way to pedestrians who are about to cross or are already crossing. This is especially important for drivers making right or left turns at crosswalks. When there are pedestrians present, they must come to a complete stop before making the turn.
Also, drivers don’t just have restrictions at crosswalks. Their obligation extends to using caution to avoid accidents with pedestrians, even if the latter are not necessarily in a crosswalk. Pedestrian safety is crucial, regardless of where they are on the road.
Violations of these statutes are not tolerated, especially in the cases of hit and run accidents where the driver left the scene of the accident. Drivers who disrespect them may face hefty penalties, point accumulation on their driving records, or even jail. On the other hand, pedestrians who become victims of such negligence might sustain severe injuries and, in the worst-case scenario, lose their lives.
How Pedestrian Accident Cases in Fort Lauderdale Are Fought
At the heart of any pedestrian accident case in Fort Lauderdale is the “duty of care.” Every driver owes pedestrians a duty to operate their vehicle safely. For a case to stand:
- Duty of Care – Drivers must always remain vigilant, driving with the safety of all in mind.
- Breach of Duty – Proving the driver’s negligence, such as distraction or reckless driving, shows they didn’t uphold their duty.
- Causation – There must be a direct link between the driver’s negligence and the pedestrian’s injuries.
- Extent of Damages – The severity of the pedestrian’s injuries and related losses can influence the liability assigned to the driver.
The idea of comparative negligence is critical in Fort Lauderdale, as it is across Florida. It recognizes that in an accident, multiple people may be at fault. For example, suppose the court rules that the pedestrian was 30% at fault (maybe because they were jaywalking or inattentive) and the driver was 70% (perhaps because they were speeding or texting). In that case, they will reduce the pedestrian’s damages by their 30% share of the blame.
Eyewitness testimonies, physical evidence (like skid marks or debris), traffic camera recordings, surveillance footage, and the official police report can all play pivotal roles in establishing the chain of events and determining liability. Furthermore, expert testimonies, such as accident reconstruction specialists or traffic safety experts, can provide in-depth insights into the specifics of the incident and help shed light on the nuances of the case.
Lastly, Florida’s stance on the “contributory negligence rule.” In some jurisdictions, if a plaintiff is slightly at fault, the court may bar them from recovering damages. However, Florida follows the more lenient “comparative negligence” system. This means that even if pedestrians are partly to blame, they can still secure compensation, albeit reduced according to their degree of fault.
Reach out to the experienced Fort Lauderdale pedestrian accident attorneys at Schilling & Silvers Personal Injury & Car Accident Lawyers if you have any questions if you think you have a case.
Who Is Liable for a Pedestrian's Injuries After an Accident?
Identifying who’s at fault in a pedestrian accident often hinges on the legal process of proving negligence. Typically, injured pedestrians file claims against the car’s driver. However, as our Fort Lauderdale pedestrian accident lawyers often find, responsibility can extend beyond the driver.
- Insurance Companies – Pedestrians might initially use their insurance due to Florida’s no-fault insurance system. If the coverage isn’t enough, a claim against the driver’s policy may be required, resulting in legal action.
- Local Municipality – Poorly maintained crosswalks, malfunctioning traffic signals, or other unsafe conditions can place some blame on the city or local government.
- Other Parties – Factors like blocked sidewalks, construction zones without proper detours, or other individuals forcing pedestrians into the street can also play a role in the incident.
- Product Manufacturer – A product liability claim might be in order if faulty equipment like a scooter or skateboard contributed to the accident.
- The Pedestrian – If the injured party played a part in the accident, they might bear some responsibility. In Florida, even if the pedestrian is partially at fault, they can still win a claim, though their compensation might be reduced proportionally.
Serving Fort Lauderdale, FL
Fort Lauderdale, often called the “Venice of America,” is a picturesque city with much to offer residents and tourists. With its intertwining canals, beautiful beaches, and lively city streets, it boasts an impressive array of destinations best experienced on foot.
Hugh Taylor Birch State Park exemplifies Florida’s natural beauty. This urban paradise offers guests a calm respite from the hustle and bustle of the metropolis. It’s a perfect destination for nature enthusiasts and those looking for a peaceful retreat, with its rich selection of animals, placid freshwater lagoons, and gorgeous walking routes.
Next on the pedestrian trail, Las Olas Boulevard beckons with its vibrancy. Lined with shops, art galleries, and bustling cafés, Las Olas serves as the city’s cultural and commercial heartbeat. Whether you’re window shopping, hunting for unique souvenirs, or simply sipping coffee at a street-side café, the Boulevard never disappoints.
For those who appreciate the arts, the Broward Center for the Performing Arts is a cultural landmark in Fort Lauderdale. It ensures that every visitor leaves with a happier mindset by offering a variety of performances ranging from world-class dramas to enticing musicals.
As always, our pedestrian accident attorneys in Fort Lauderdale recommend to keep safety in mind while enjoying these gems. Resources like PedBikeSRC and the CDC’s guide on pedestrian safety offer invaluable information on ensuring safe travels on foot and bicycle.
Contact Schilling & Silvers Personal Injury & Car Accident Lawyers Today!
The Fort Lauderdale pedestrian accident lawyers at Schilling & Silvers Personal Injury & Car Accident Lawyers are deeply committed to helping injured victims. With years of expertise negotiating the complexity of pedestrian accident cases, our staff has an in-depth understanding of the local legal landscape and the specific issues our community faces. Our track record demonstrates our commitment to fighting for our client’s rights and getting the compensation they deserve.
As Fort Lauderdale residents, we are more than just lawyers; we are your neighbors committed to making our community safer. When you choose Schilling & Silvers Personal Injury & Car Accident Lawyers to handle your case, you are picking a firm that is not just thoroughly knowledgeable but also deeply invested in the well-being of our community and its people.
Locations near Fort Lauderdale we serve include Hialeah, Pompano Beach, Miami, Weston, Plantation, Sunrise, Davie, and more.
Written by Aaron Silvers
Real Stories. Real Results.
What Our Clients Say
We treat every client like family — and it shows. Here’s what real people have to say about working with The Bald Injury Lawyers.
Mike Evans
Mike Evans
We hired Schilling & Silvers Personal Injury & Car Accident Lawyers after being unable to reach an acceptable settlement with an insurance company. Aaron handled everything professionally, kept us informed regularly, and quickly negotiated the settlement we were looking for. I would highly recommend Schilling & Silvers Personal Injury & Car Accident Lawyers for your legal needs!
Farrah Caroll
Farrah Caroll
I hired Schilling & Silvers Personal Injury & Car Accident Lawyers to help with my Insurance claim. Mr.Silvers was able to get my case settled fairly quickly. He was very professional.i would recommend him in the future to anyone needing assistance with claims. Thank you so much.
Crystal McLaughlin
Crystal McLaughlin
Mr. Silvers and staff are wonderful. They keep you updated on your case. They have quick response time. I highly recommend Schilling & Silvers Personal Injury & Car Accident Lawyers
Pedestrian Accident Lawsuit Frequently Asked Questions
Still feeling unsure? More questions? These might help!
What should I do if I was hit by a car in Fort Lauderdale?
If you were hit by a vehicle, call 911 immediately and seek medical attention. Document the scene with photos, get the driver’s and witnesses’ contact information, and avoid speaking to insurance companies until you consult a pedestrian accident lawyer.
Do pedestrians always have the right of way in Florida?
Not always. Florida law gives pedestrians the right of way in crosswalks, but pedestrians must also obey traffic signals. However, drivers are still legally obligated to use caution and avoid hitting pedestrians, even outside of crosswalks.
Can I file a claim if I was partially at fault for the accident?
Yes. Under Florida’s modified comparative negligence rule, you can still recover damages as long as you are not more than 50% at fault. Your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of responsibility.
How long do I have to file a pedestrian accident lawsuit in Florida?
Florida’s statute of limitations gives you two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. Missing this deadline may prevent you from recovering compensation.
Who can be held liable in a pedestrian accident case in South Florida?
Potentially liable parties include the at-fault driver, their employer if they were working, a government entity (if unsafe road design contributed), or even a product manufacturer if faulty equipment played a role. An attorney can help identify all responsible parties.
What compensation can I recover after a pedestrian accident in Fort Lauderdale?
You may be entitled to economic damages such as medical bills, lost income, rehab costs, non-economic damages like pain and suffering and emotional distress, and in some cases, punitive damages. If a loved one died, you may also pursue wrongful death compensation.
Will my pedestrian accident case go to trial?
Most pedestrian accident cases settle out of court. However, if the insurance company refuses to offer fair compensation, our attorneys are fully prepared to take your case to trial to fight for the compensation you deserve.
How much does it cost to hire a Fort Lauderdale pedestrian accident lawyer?
At Schilling & Silvers, we work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay us anything unless we win your case. Your initial consultation is completely free.
Schedule a Free Consultation With a Fort Lauderdale Pedestrian Accident Lawyer
Time is critical in any personal injury case. Florida’s statute of limitations gives you just two years to file a claim. The sooner you contact us, the better we can preserve evidence and build a winning case. Call (954) 869-9533 or contact us online today to schedule a 100% free, no-obligation consultation.
We proudly serve clients throughout Fort Lauderdale, including neighborhoods like Coral Ridge, Victoria Park, Rio Vista, and surrounding areas like Pompano Beach, Sunrise, Davie, and Hialeah.