Pedestrian accidents can have catastrophic consequences. If you were struck by a vehicle while legally crossing the street, you could sustain significant, life-altering injuries. If you are facing medical bills and missed work due to a pedestrian accident in which the driver did not properly yield to you, an experienced Pensacola personal injury lawyer can help. They can advise you about the legal process and work to pursue the compensation you deserve while you recover from your injuries.
Is Jaywalking Illegal in Florida?
Florida has no jaywalking laws in that the term does not appear in Florida law. However, when pedestrians cross the street in some circumstances, their actions can constitute “jaywalking” and may be considered illegal under Florida law. For example, if traffic signals are operating between adjacent intersections, pedestrians must cross in the marked crosswalk. Further, pedestrians are prohibited from crossing a roadway intersection diagonally unless authorized to do so by the traffic control device.
Do Pedestrians Have the Right of Way in Florida?
It depends on the circumstances. If a pedestrian is crossing the street within crosswalks, a driver must yield to them. If the pedestrian is in the crosswalk where a traffic signal has directed them to cross, the driver must stop before entering the crosswalk. Likewise, a pedestrian has the right of way if they are in the crosswalk or step into the crosswalk if there is a sign indicating the driver shall stop to allow the pedestrian to cross.
However, Florida crosswalk laws provide that if a pedestrian crosses the road at any point other than in a marked crosswalk or unmarked crosswalk at an intersection, they must yield to any vehicles on the roadway. Although drivers should keep a proper lookout for pedestrians, pedestrians do not have the right of way if they cross the street anywhere other than crosswalks.
Florida Pedestrian Statute 316.130
This statute outlines the rights and obligations of pedestrians and drivers where pedestrians are present in Florida. Specifically, the statute requires pedestrians to obey any traffic signals unless directed otherwise by law enforcement. In addition to the laws stated here concerning right-of-way, the statute prohibits pedestrians from suddenly leaving the curb and running into traffic when an oncoming vehicle is so close its driver cannot stop.
What To Do if There Are No Sidewalks on the Street
Under Florida law, pedestrians must use the sidewalk if there is one. However, if sidewalks are not provided, pedestrians must walk only on the shoulder on the left side of the road so they face oncoming vehicular traffic from the opposite direction. This increases the chances that a driver will see the pedestrian and avoid striking them.
Contact Our Pedestrian Accident Lawyers in Florida for Help
If you were injured as a pedestrian in Florida, you need a personal injury attorney from Cardoso Law, PLLC. We understand pedestrian traffic laws can be confusing. We can review your case and explain your options for compensation for your injuries and losses if the driver who hit you is at fault for the accident. We’ll provide a free initial case evaluation to get you started. Contact us today to speak to a Florida pedestrian accident lawyer.