Coconut Creek Pedestrian Accident Lawyer

Let Our Firm Fight for You

If you or a loved one has been involved in a pedestrian accident in Coconut Creek, FL, it’s crucial to seek the help of an experienced attorney. At Zimmerman & Frachtman, P.A., we understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll these accidents can have on victims and their families. Our dedicated team is here to provide the guidance and representation you need to navigate the legal process and seek your entitled compensation.

To request a free case review, call (954) 504-6577 or contact us online.

Florida Pedestrian Laws

Under Florida law, pedestrians have the right of way at crosswalks and intersections. Drivers must yield to pedestrians crossing in these areas. Additionally, drivers must exercise due care to avoid hitting pedestrians, even if they are not in a designated crosswalk.

Florida Statute 316.130 outlines the obligations of both drivers and pedestrians. For instance, pedestrians must use sidewalks when available, and if there are no sidewalks, they should walk on the left side of the road, facing oncoming traffic.

Moreover, Florida law mandates that pedestrians must cross streets only at marked crosswalks or intersections. However, even when crossing legally, pedestrians are still at risk of being injured by negligent drivers.

Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents

Pedestrian accidents can occur due to various factors, often resulting from negligence on the part of drivers or pedestrians. Here are some of the most common causes:

• Distracted Driving: One of the leading causes of pedestrian accidents is distracted driving. When drivers take their attention away from the road—whether to check their phones, adjust the radio, or engage with passengers—they can easily overlook pedestrians.
• Speeding: Speeding reduces a driver’s ability to react in time to avoid hitting a pedestrian. The faster a vehicle is traveling, the more severe the injuries can be in the event of a collision.
• Driving Under the Influence: Alcohol and drugs impair judgment, reaction times, and overall driving ability. Drivers under the influence are significantly more likely to cause pedestrian accidents.
• Poor Visibility: Conditions such as rain, fog, or darkness can limit visibility for drivers and pedestrians. Additionally, poorly lit areas or inadequate signage can contribute to accidents.
• Failure to Obey Traffic Signals: Both drivers and pedestrians must adhere to traffic signals. When drivers fail to stop for red lights or do not yield to pedestrians at crosswalks, accidents can occur.
• Negligent Pedestrian Behavior: While drivers have a duty to watch for pedestrians, pedestrians also have a responsibility to follow traffic laws. Jaywalking or failing to use designated crosswalks can increase the risk of an accident.

Who is Liable for a Pedestrian Accident?

Determining liability in a pedestrian accident can be complex. Several parties may be held responsible, including:

• The Driver: In most pedestrian accidents, the driver is held primarily responsible, especially if they were negligent in their actions. If a driver was speeding, distracted, or driving under the influence, they could be liable for the injuries sustained by the pedestrian.
• The Pedestrian: If a pedestrian was not following traffic laws, they could share some liability. For example, if a pedestrian was jaywalking and was struck by a vehicle, their actions may be deemed partially responsible for the accident.
• Local Government: If a pedestrian accident occurs due to poorly maintained roads, inadequate signage, or lack of crosswalks, the local government may be held liable. These cases can be complex, often requiring evidence that the government knew about the dangerous conditions and failed to address them.
• Other Third Parties: In some cases, other parties may be liable, such as vehicle manufacturers if a vehicle malfunction contributed to the accident.

What to Do After a Pedestrian Accident

If you are involved in a pedestrian accident, taking certain steps can help protect your rights:

• Seek Medical Attention: Your health and safety should be your top priority. Even if you feel fine, it’s essential to get a medical evaluation as some injuries may not be immediately apparent.
• Gather Evidence: If possible, take photos of the accident scene, gather witness contact information, and collect any relevant police reports. This evidence can be crucial in building your case.
• Avoid Admitting Fault: In the aftermath of an accident, emotions can run high. Avoid making any statements that could be construed as admitting fault, as this could impact your claim.
• Contact a Lawyer: Reach out to a Coconut Creek pedestrian accident lawyer as soon as possible. An experienced attorney can guide you through the process, help you understand your rights, and represent you in negotiations or court.

Why Choose Zimmerman & Frachtman, P.A.?

At Zimmerman & Frachtman, P.A., we are committed to fighting for the rights of pedestrian accident victims in Coconut Creek, FL. Our team has extensive experience handling personal injury cases and understands the unique challenges pedestrian accident victims face. We provide personalized legal representation, ensuring our clients receive the attention and care they deserve.

Contact us today at (954) 504-6577 to schedule a free consultation.