Sun-dappled streets, a refreshing breeze off the Atlantic, and many entertaining spots to explore, Fort Lauderdale is undeniably one of Florida’s jewels for pedestrians.
But with the beauty and allure comes a warning. Just as any bustling city teeming with activities, Fort Lauderdale is not exempt from the risks pedestrians face. And when those leisurely walks turn tragic due to someone else’s negligence, a Fort Lauderdale pedestrian accident lawyer can be your advocate.
Imagine this: You’re walking towards Java & Jam on East Las Olas Boulevard, dreaming about the coffee that awaits you. Suddenly, your peaceful morning gets shattered when a distracted driver, busy texting, fails to notice the crosswalk and hits you.
Or picture another scenario: You’re heading into The Fresh Market on N. Federal Highway, thinking about the fresh produce you’re about to buy, when an inattentive motorist in the parking lot doesn’t see you and you become the unintended victim.
Then there’s the excitement of seeing an IMAX movie at the Museum of Discovery and Science on SW Second Street, but that joy can be abruptly cut short if a vehicle hits you while exiting the museum.
Such incidents aren’t just hypotheticals. They underscore the genuine risks pedestrians face in Fort Lauderdale every day. And when accidents occur, you deserve an experienced advocate by your side. The role of a pedestrian accident attorney isn’t just about legal representation; it’s about ensuring justice for the innocent pedestrians who become victims in a city they love and cherish.
Unfortunately, as pedestrian accident attorneys in Fort Lauderdale, we can tell you that this beautiful city with sun-kissed beaches and bustling streets, has a troubling distinction. Pedestrian accidents are widespread in the city, and Florida has consistently ranked among the top states for pedestrian fatalities. Fort Lauderdale’s contribution to these statistics is noteworthy as one of the state’s urban centers. Florida saw 716 deaths in 2020, and from 2020 to 2021, it had over 100 more pedestrian fatalities than the previous year.
Inspired by global best practices, Fort Lauderdale adopted the “Vision Zero plan” in 2015. The goal is that by 2035, all traffic deaths and serious injuries will be eliminated. Fort Lauderdale’s Vision Zero action plan emphasizes the city’s commitment to improving safety through better road design, public awareness campaigns, and stricter law enforcement. The initiative’s underlying philosophy is clear: No loss of life on the roads is acceptable.
Despite such ambitious plans and measures, some parts of the city remain dangerous for pedestrians. According to Make Roads Safe, there are notable danger zones for those on foot, and some of these problematic areas include W. Broward Boulevard and Sunrise Boulevard.
The urgency of the problem needs joint action by local officials and residents. While city authorities and planners focus on engineering and enforcement solutions, community awareness and education can be essential in risk reduction. After all, each life saved on Fort Lauderdale’s roads moves the city closer to its Vision Zero goals.
Understanding the root causes of the significant number of pedestrian accidents is critical for fixing and reducing risks. Here are several vital variables that contribute to the worrying trend:
With the prevalence of cell phones and in-car entertainment systems, distracted driving has become a major issue. Taking your eyes away from the road for even a few seconds can have disastrous results, especially for pedestrians who do not have the protection of a vehicle.
Drivers may feel tempted to break speed limits, run red lights, or engage in unsafe activities in regions where traffic regulations aren’t effectively enforced. In addition, inadequate insurance laws may not hold drivers fully accountable, creating a sense of entitlement.
Pedestrians are vulnerable, unlike vehicle passengers, who have protection from seat belts, airbags, and the vehicle’s structure. Even minor collisions can cause serious injuries or death for pedestrians.
Many roads and crossings do not prioritize pedestrian safety. Walking can be dangerous without proper crosswalks, poor signs, or pedestrian-friendly infrastructure.
Speeding is still a significant cause of traffic accidents, including pedestrian accidents. The faster the car moves, the less time the driver has to react to unexpected situations and the greater the severity of the hit.
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:
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.
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.
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:
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.
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.
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.
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.
Our Personal Injury Law Offices
Fort Lauderdale Office
1700 NW 64th St Suite 460
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33309
(954) 712-8877
Hialeah, FL Office
2300 W 84th St Ste 213
Hialeah, FL 33016
(954) 712-8877
