Pedestrian Accidents in Fort Lauderdale: Safety Tips and How to Hold Negligent Drivers Liable

With its sunny weather and walkable beachfront neighborhoods, Fort Lauderdale sees thousands of pedestrians each day. But whether you’re out for a stroll on Las Olas or crossing busy A1A, walking near traffic can be dangerous, especially when drivers aren’t paying attention.

At Boone & Davis, Attorneys at Law, we help injured pedestrians hold careless drivers accountable. Our experienced Fort Lauderdale personal injury attorney shares safety tips to help reduce your risks and explains your legal rights if you get struck by a vehicle in South Florida.

Why Pedestrian Accidents Are So Common in Fort Lauderdale

Florida has long ranked among the most dangerous states for pedestrians. Florida’s Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) reports over 1,000 pedestrian crashes happen in Broward County alone each year, leaving both residents and visitors to our area suffering serious injuries.

When pedestrian accidents in South Florida occur, reckless driving behavior is often to blame. Leading causes include:

• Drivers failing to yield as people walk across intersections and crosswalks;
• Going over posted speeds in residential neighborhoods or near beaches;
• Talking to passengers, changing GPS settings, texting, or other distracted driving;
• Being impaired due to alcohol or drugs;
• Rolling stops at intersections or turning without checking for pedestrians;
• Poor visibility at night or in the rain, especially when drivers don’t slow down.

Pedestrians can reduce their risks by using crosswalks, wearing light, bright colors, always staying alert, and not assuming a driver sees you or will stop. However, even when taking these precautions, pedestrian accidents in Fort Lauderdale can still happen. When you or someone you love suffers harm, you have the right to hold the driver accountable.

Your Legal Rights After a Pedestrian Injury in South Florida

If you get hit by a car in South Florida, you can seek compensation for your injuries. Under the Florida Statutes, drivers can be held liable for property damages, medical expenses, lost earnings, pain and suffering, and other losses.

However, you will need evidence, whether filing a claim through insurers or taking your case to court. Our Fort Lauderdale pedestrian accident attorney is here to help. While you focus on recovery, we investigate and gather the following:

• Police reports and statements from officers at the scene;
• Statements from the at-fault driver, other motorists, and witnesses;
• Surveillance video from nearby buildings and dash cam or traffic camera footage;
• Medical records detailing your injuries, along with statements from your doctor and other providers detailing your current condition and prognosis for recovery;
• Testimony from accident reconstruction experts in cases of contested claims.

Injured While Walking in South Florida? Contact Our Experienced Fort Lauderdale Pedestrian Accident Attorney Right Away

For over 40 years, Boone & Davis has stood up for pedestrian accident victims across South Florida. We know how absolutely devastating these injuries can be and fight to get you the maximum compensation you deserve. To protect your rights, reach out and contact our office. Schedule a consultation with our Fort Lauderdale pedestrian accident attorney today.

Sources:

flhsmv.gov/pdf/crashreports/crash_facts_2022.pdf

leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0700-0799/0768/Sections/0768.81.html