What Happens When a Pedestrian Causes an Accident?

We often assume that drivers are responsible for car accidents. However, there are situations where a pedestrian may cause or contribute to an accident. This is common when pedestrians, cyclists, and motorists share the road. Understanding the implications of a pedestrian-caused accident is important if you or a loved one have been involved, whether as a driver, a pedestrian, or a legal professional.

Florida’s Laws on Pedestrian and Driver Responsibilities

Florida law requires pedestrians and drivers to behave safely on the road. Pedestrians have a duty to obey traffic signals, use crosswalks, and avoid stepping into the path of an oncoming vehicle when it is unsafe to do so. Drivers have to yield to pedestrians at marked crosswalks and exercise caution for pedestrian traffic.

Some of the common causes of pedestrian-caused accidents include:

  • Jaywalking: Crossing the street outside of designated crosswalks.
  • Ignoring traffic signals: Crossing against the signal at intersections.
  • Sudden movements: Entering the street suddenly or without warning, such as running into the road.
  • Distracted walking: Using a mobile device or wearing headphones, which can cause pedestrians to be unaware of oncoming traffic.

A pedestrian can be held partially or fully liable if their accidents cause or contribute to an accident. This means they may be responsible for compensating victims for economic and non-economic damages such as medical expenses, lost wages, or pain and suffering.

Determining Fault After Pedestrian-Caused Accidents in Fort Walton Beach

The concept of comparative negligence is important in personal injury cases, including those involving pedestrian-caused accidents. Under Florida law, each party involved in an accident can be assigned a percentage of fault, which will reduce or bar compensation proportionally. A pedestrian whose actions caused or contributed to the accident may be held responsible for some or all of the damages. For example:

  • Partial fault: A pedestrian suddenly steps into the street without looking, but the driver is speeding or distracted. Both parties could share fault.
  • Full Fault: A pedestrian jaywalks or crosses against the light, leading to a collision. The pedestrian could be deemed entirely at fault, especially if the driver obeyed traffic laws.

The percentage of fault assigned to each party will directly impact the compensation available in any resulting personal injury claims. A Fort Walton Beach car accident lawyer can help you determine how this might apply to your specific case.

A pedestrian could face legal repercussions if they are found to be at fault for an accident, especially if it caused injuries to a driver, passenger, or pedestrian. Potential repercussions include:

  • Liability for damages: A pedestrian who causes an accident may be liable for covering the damages incurred by other parties. This could include medical expenses, property damage, lost wages, and other costs.
  • Personal injury claims against the pedestrian: The injured parties may file a personal injury lawsuit against the pedestrian. The pedestrian may be required to pay for the injured party’s damages out of pocket if they lack adequate insurance coverage.
  • Potential criminal charges: A pedestrian may face criminal charges if their actions were reckless or intentional. A pedestrian deliberately running into or obstructing traffic could be criminally liable for reckless endangerment.

If you or a loved one were involved in an accident involving a pedestrian, speak with a Fort Walton Beach pedestrian accident lawyer about your rights and legal options.

Steps to Take if You Are Involved in a Pedestrian Accident

Taking the right steps after an accident involving a pedestrian is important. Be sure to consider:

  1. Contacting the police
  2. Seeking medical attention for any injuries
  3. Gathering photos of the scene, witness contact information, and other evidence
  4. Reporting the accident to your insurance company
  5. Consulting with a personal injury lawyer

A Fort Walton Beach personal injury lawyer may be able to help if your case involves injuries or other damages.

Involved in An Accident With A Pedestrian? Contact A Fort Walton Beach Personal Injury Lawyer Today

Pedestrians are not immune from fault when it comes to accidents. If a pedestrian’s actions caused or contributed to an accident, they may be held legally and financially responsible for the damages. A Fort Walton Beach personal injury lawyer can help you understand your rights and legal options. Contact Brannon & Brannon Car Accident & Personal Injury Lawyers today to schedule a free consultation.

Contact Our Personal Injury Law Firm in Northwest Florida

If you need legal assistance, contact the Fort Walton Beach personal injury lawyers at Brannon & Brannon Car Accident & Personal Injury Lawyers at your nearest location to schedule a free consultation today.

We have two convenient locations in Northwest Florida:

Brannon & Brannon Car Accident & Personal Injury Lawyers – Fort Walton Beach Office
975 Mar Walt Dr
Fort Walton Beach, FL 32547
(850) 863-5297

Brannon & Brannon Car Accident & Personal Injury Lawyers – Destin Office
4507 Furling Ln Suite 214
Destin, FL 32541
(850) 790-0243