FL Car Accident Attorney Explains Crosswalk Pedestrian Injuries and Obtaining Compensation
According to the Florida Governors Highway Safety Association, approximately 20 pedestrians are killed every day in the U.S., and over 7,500 pedestrians were killed by drivers in 2022. Additionally, Florida has one of the highest rates of pedestrian fatalities in the nation. 
A crosswalk accident is one of the most common types of pedestrian accidents in Florida and is most often caused by a negligent driver. If you suffered injuries in a crosswalk pedestrian-car accident, the highly skilled car accident attorneys at Spetsas Buist can help. Here, they explain common pedestrian crosswalk injuries and the legal recourse available to victims.
Who Is Considered a Pedestrian in Florida?
It’s important to know that a pedestrian is not just someone walking on foot or moving through a crosswalk. A pedestrian is also anyone traveling on sidewalks and roadways in a wheelchair, on skates or rollerblades, or on a skateboard.
In Florida, bicyclists are also considered pedestrians if they’re riding on the sidewalk. However, if they move to the street, they must adhere to all traffic laws and are not considered pedestrians.
Common Causes of FL Pedestrian Crosswalk Accidents
Many people are surprised to know that crosswalks are not always marked with white lines. According to the Department of Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV), every intersection is considered an “unmarked” crosswalk where pedestrians can legally cross the road, even without the painted white lines of marked crosswalks. In general, Florida pedestrians are allowed to cross the street at any intersection, even if there is no designated crosswalk.
Florida law requires drivers to use “due care and caution” at all times to avoid hitting into a pedestrian. Even if the pedestrian was violating the crosswalk laws or not paying attention, it’s the driver’s responsibility to uphold their duty of care.
But even the most careful driver can cause a crosswalk pedestrian-car accident. Here are some common causes of this type of accident:
- Failure by the driver to yield to a pedestrian at a crosswalk
- The driver making a turn without checking for pedestrians
- The driver running a red light
- Driver attitude that the road belongs to them—and pedestrians need to watch out for cars
- Distracted driving
- Speeding
- Impaired driving
Common Injuries Sustained by Florida Pedestrians in Crosswalks
Without the protection of a car’s shell and safety features, pedestrians are at higher risk for serious injuries or even fatalities when there’s an accident. Common pedestrian accident injuries include:
- Broken bones. Broken bones are a common pedestrian injury. Victims may suffer from broken legs, arms, hips, or even ribs.
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). If the pedestrian is thrown to the ground or hits their head on the pavement, they can suffer a TBI. Symptoms of TBIs include headaches, confusion, dizziness, or memory problems.
- Spinal cord injuries. Depending on the severity of the accident and the way in which a pedestrian is hit, it’s possible they might suffer from a spinal cord injury. This type of injury can be long-lasting and even permanent, sometimes leading to paralysis.
Possible Compensation for a Crosswalk Pedestrian-Car Accident
If you were a victim of a crosswalk pedestrian-car accident, you may be eligible for compensation for economic and non-economic damages. This compensation could be essential in helping you obtain the care and financial support you need.
Possible Economic Damages
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Lost future earnings (or earning capacity)
- Property damage
- Home healthcare costs
- Transportation costs
- Rehabilitation costs
Possible Non-Economic Damages
- Pain and suffering. These damages are related to the physical, mental, and emotional harm and distress you experienced.
- Loss of consortium. These damages might be awarded for loss of companionship, affection, and sexual relations as a result of the accident.
- Loss of enjoyment of life. If you lose your ability to enjoy your hobbies, sports, social events, or time with family or friends as a result of the accident, you might obtain compensation for loss of enjoyment of life.
- Disfigurement and scarring. If the accident leaves you with scarring or disfigurement, these may affect your ability to work or participate in social activities.
- Disability and impairment. The accident may affect your ability to work or perform everyday tasks.
The FL Attorneys at Spetsas Buist Can Help
If you suffered physical injuries or emotional harm as a result of a crosswalk pedestrian-car accident, our car accident attorneys can help determine fair compensation for your damages. At Spetsas Buist, we have experience helping victims of pedestrian accidents defend their rights and pursue the compensation they need to cope with the burdens of post-accident life. Book a free consultation today to learn how we can help you.
