Often, when people hear the word accident, they jump to the conclusion that two vehicles were involved. However, accidents can involve pedestrians and unfortunately accidents that do involve pedestrians are some of the most dangerous to occur on the road. Pedestrians lack the same outside protection as vehicles, which often results in catastrophic injuries. When a pedestrian wishes to cross the street, they can legally do so by walking within a marked or unmarked crosswalk. Motorists are legally required to obey the laws of the road and yield the right of way to pedestrians crossing the street in a crosswalk. However, many motorists fail to exercise reasonable care and do not yield the right of way which often results in devastating accidents. In the unfortunate event that you or a loved one has been injured in a crosswalk accident, please don’t hesitate to contact a determined Port St. Lucie Pedestrian Accident Lawyer who can help you understand your legal options. In addition, please continue following along to learn who is liable for this type of accident.
What is a crosswalk accident in Florida?
Essentially, a crosswalk accident occurs when a vehicle strikes a pedestrian while they are in a marked or unmarked crosswalk. Crosswalks are painted markings that outline a portion of the road where pedestrians are legally allowed to cross the street. In Florida, there are two types of crosswalks, marked and unmarked. Marked crosswalks are portions of the road that are clearly outlined by painted markings. Unmarked crosswalks are areas of an intersection that are the continuation of an existing sidewalk that forms a straight line from one side of the road to the other. Unmarked crosswalks are not outlined with painted lines. However, marked and unmarked crosswalks are both portions of the road where pedestrians are legally allowed to cross the street.
Who is liable?
In Florida, when a vehicle strikes a pedestrian while they are walking within the designated lines of a crosswalk, the motorist is liable for the collision. Motorists are legally required to yield the right of way to pedestrians in a crosswalk. Often, pedestrians assume that motorists are exercising reasonable care on the road, meaning they expect motorists to stop for them while they cross the street in a crosswalk. However, some vehicles neglect to abide by the rules of the road which often results in serious accidents and injuries. Motorists that disobey pedestrian laws can be held liable for any damages that occur as a direct result of their negligent actions. It is imperative for motorists to always yield the right of way to pedestrians in crosswalks to prevent serious accidents and injuries.
If you have been injured in a crosswalk accident as a result of negligence, speak with one of our trusted and skilled team members. Allow our firm to fight on your behalf today to seek reasonable compensation for your economic and noneconomic damages.
