Walking is a common and healthy way to get around in Florida. Whether it’s a quick trip to the store or a walk through one of the state’s scenic areas, pedestrians enjoy the sunshine year-round. Unfortunately, pedestrian accidents happen all too often in Florida. If you’ve been hit by a car while walking, it’s important to know what steps to take, your rights, and how to seek compensation for your injuries.

Florida’s Pedestrian Accident Statistics

Florida has one of the highest rates of pedestrian accidents in the United States. According to recent data, Florida’s roadways are some of the most dangerous for pedestrians. Between 2010 and 2019, the state saw thousands of pedestrian accidents, leading to hundreds of deaths. In fact, Florida ranks among the top states for pedestrian fatalities. The state’s mix of high traffic volume, high-speed limits, and busy streets increases the risk of accidents. This is why it’s so important for pedestrians to know how to protect themselves.

Florida’s Pedestrian Laws

Florida law protects pedestrians, but it also places some responsibility on them to stay safe. Pedestrians should walk on sidewalks whenever possible. If there is no sidewalk, they must walk facing oncoming traffic. This allows pedestrians to see any approaching vehicles and react in time if necessary. Pedestrians should also cross streets at marked crosswalks whenever possible and remain aware of their surroundings.

Even though pedestrians have the right of way at crosswalks, they must still exercise caution. Not all drivers will stop, and some may not see you at all. Always make eye contact with drivers before crossing, even when you have the right of way.

What to Do After Being Hit by a Car

If you’ve been hit by a car while walking, there are several steps you should take immediately to protect yourself and your legal rights:

1. Call Emergency Services: If you are injured or even if you don’t feel hurt immediately, call 911. It’s important to have a police report for any accident. The authorities will also ensure that you get medical help.

2. Get Medical Treatment: Even if you don’t feel hurt, you should get checked by a doctor. Some injuries, like whiplash or internal damage, might not show symptoms right away but can still cause long-term issues.

3. Document the Accident: If you are able to, take photos of the scene. Capture any damage to vehicles, your injuries, and the area where the accident occurred. Get the names and contact information of witnesses who may have seen the incident.

4. File a Report with Your Insurance Company: After you’ve received medical attention, report the accident to your insurance provider. This is important whether or not the driver stopped or whether they had insurance.

Can You Get Compensation for Your Injuries?

In Florida, you may be able to receive compensation for your injuries if you’ve been hit by a car. In most cases, the driver at fault will be responsible for covering your medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. If the driver fled the scene, you might still be able to recover damages through your own insurance, such as Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance, which is required for all drivers in Florida.

However, you must prove that the driver was negligent and caused the accident. In situations where the driver left the scene (hit and run), the process can become more complicated. But with the help of an experienced personal injury lawyer, you can still pursue compensation through your own insurance or through a lawsuit.

What Happens If the Driver Flees the Scene?

In Florida, it’s illegal for a driver to leave the scene of an accident without providing their contact information. If the driver who hit you fled, they could face criminal charges. It’s essential to try to gather as much information as you can about the car, such as its make, model, and color. If there were any witnesses, get their contact information as well.

If the driver isn’t found, you may still have options. Florida law requires that drivers carry uninsured motorist coverage, which can help in cases where the at-fault driver doesn’t have insurance or can’t be identified. Your own insurance policy may cover medical expenses and other damages through this coverage.

What If You Were Partially at Fault?

Florida follows a comparative negligence rule, which means that even if you were partially at fault for the accident, you may still be able to recover damages. For example, if you crossed the street outside of a crosswalk but the driver was speeding or distracted, they could still be responsible for the accident. However, your compensation may be reduced by your percentage of fault. If you were found to be 30% at fault, your compensation might be reduced by that percentage.

Get A Free Pedestrain Accident Consultation

Getting hit by a car while walking in Florida can be overwhelming. You may be dealing with serious injuries, insurance companies, and legal issues all at once. That’s why it’s so important to work with an experienced personal injury lawyer who can help you through the process. They can gather evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and fight for the compensation you deserve. If you’ve been injured, don’t wait — reach out for a free consultation to discuss your case. Your health and well-being come first, and the right legal support can make all the difference.