Pedestrian accidents are some of the most devastating crashes on Florida’s roads. When someone on foot is hit by a car, the results are often life-changing—fractures, head trauma, spinal injuries, or worse. Even at low speeds, a vehicle colliding with a pedestrian can cause catastrophic harm.
In growing communities like Trinity, New Port Richey, and Land O’ Lakes, pedestrian traffic is increasing. So is the risk. Understanding the causes of these accidents—and who’s legally responsible—can help victims and their families take the next step toward justice.
Distracted Driving
Texting while driving is one of the top causes of pedestrian accidents in Florida. When a driver is focused on their phone instead of the road, they may fail to see someone crossing the street, walking along the shoulder, or standing at an intersection. Even a few seconds of distraction can lead to a deadly impact.
Liability usually falls on the distracted driver. If their negligence caused the accident, they can be held financially responsible for the victim’s injuries and losses.
Speeding and Reckless Driving
Drivers who speed have less time to react and need more distance to stop. That puts pedestrians in extreme danger—especially in residential areas, school zones, or parking lots where people are likely to walk.
In some cases, drivers may also be under the influence of drugs or alcohol, driving aggressively, or ignoring red lights and stop signs. These actions not only cause serious crashes, but they also make liability easier to prove under Florida law.
Failure to Yield
Florida law requires drivers to yield to pedestrians in crosswalks and at intersections. But many don’t. Some roll through stop signs or make right turns without checking for people in the crosswalk. Others try to “beat the light,” putting pedestrians at risk.
When a driver fails to yield and causes an accident, they’re usually liable for any injuries that follow. In some cases, traffic camera footage or witness statements can help prove this failure.
Poor Visibility and Bad Road Conditions
Some pedestrian accidents happen at night, in poorly lit areas, or during bad weather. A driver may claim they couldn’t see the pedestrian, but that doesn’t always excuse them. If the driver was speeding or not paying attention, they may still be found at fault.
On the other hand, if a dangerous condition—like a broken streetlight or a missing crosswalk—contributed to the crash, the city or county may be partially liable. These cases are more complex, but a qualified attorney can help uncover the full picture.
Shared Liability in Florida
Florida follows a comparative negligence system. That means more than one party can be found responsible for an accident. If a pedestrian was jaywalking, walking outside a crosswalk, or crossing against the signal, their percentage of fault might reduce the total compensation they can recover.
But that doesn’t mean they can’t win a case. Even if a pedestrian is partially at fault, they may still recover damages. The key is to prove the driver’s actions were a major contributing factor to the crash.
Evidence That Supports a Claim
To determine liability in a pedestrian accident, it’s important to gather and preserve evidence like:
- Police reports
- Eyewitness statements
- Traffic camera footage
- Photos or videos of the scene
- Medical records
- Accident reconstruction data
An experienced personal injury lawyer can help collect and present this evidence in a way that builds a strong case.
You Don’t Have to Face This Alone
Pedestrian accidents turn lives upside down. Medical bills pile up. Work may become impossible. Everyday tasks can become painful or impossible. The stress is overwhelming—and insurance companies rarely make it easier.
At Weber Injury Law, we fight for pedestrian accident victims in Trinity, New Port Richey, Land O’ Lakes, and beyond. We know how to investigate accidents, deal with insurance companies, and hold negligent drivers accountable.
Call Weber Injury Law for Help After a Pedestrian Accident
If you or a loved one was hit by a car while walking in Trinity or nearby, you have rights—and you deserve to be fully compensated. Let us help you move forward.
Call (727) 297-2032 or contact us online for a free consultation. We’ll review your case, answer your questions, and fight for the justice you deserve.