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Lakeland Pedestrian

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Lakeland Pedestrian Accident Lawyer

The latest report from the Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA) shows that the number of pedestrian fatalities in 2022 could be greater than 8,000 for the first time since 1980. In addition to a record number of fatalities, over 100,000 individuals received treatment in emergency rooms for non-fatal pedestrian accident injuries. Sadly, pedestrian fatalities have surged nationwide in the United States over the last several decades, increasing nearly four percent in the span of a single decade, and comprising an ever-larger proportion of all traffic fatalities.

The State of Florida has witnessed a steady rise in pedestrian accidents in recent years, topping 10,000 for 2022 and 2023. This is concerning news for residents of Lakeland, Florida given that there were 346 pedestrian crashes throughout Polk County in 2023, causing 26 pedestrian deaths and 239 non-fatal injuries. 

For victims and surviving loved ones, a pedestrian accident can be devastating; however, compensation may be available for the physical, financial, and emotional pain you have experienced or for the loss you have suffered.

Victims and their families frequently face obstacles to obtaining medical treatment, financial hardship, and the daunting task of navigating the legal system following a pedestrian accident. Trying to navigate all of that without help can feel hopeless. At Kemp Personal Injury Law, a Lakeland pedestrian accident lawyer can provide you with hope when the negligence of another party (or parties) caused or contributed to a pedestrian accident.

Let an experienced Lakeland pedestrian accident lawyer help ensure that the party or parties responsible for your pain, struggles, and suffering is held responsible and that you are fully and fairly compensated. Our extensive experience, abundant resources, and steadfast commitment to securing the maximum compensation possible for pedestrian accident victims and their surviving loved ones is what sets Kemp Personal Injury Law apart and what allows us to secure justice for injured victims and their families.

Florida Pedestrian Traffic Regulations

In Florida, the regulations outlined in Statute 316.130 delineate the rights and obligations of both motorists and pedestrians on the roadways. Pursuant to that statute, pedestrians are required by law to adhere to traffic signals, utilize designated crosswalks and sidewalks, and refrain from stepping into the path of oncoming vehicles; however, motorists also bear significant responsibilities, including:

  • Motorists must yield to pedestrians within crosswalks where traffic signals or signage are present. Even in the absence of such signals or signs, drivers are obligated to yield to pedestrians.
  • Passing another vehicle that has stopped for pedestrians within a crosswalk is prohibited for motorists.
  • Motorists are mandated to exercise caution and take evasive action to avoid colliding with pedestrians, especially in the presence of children or individuals who may be confused or incapacitated.
  • Failure by a motorist to adhere to these traffic laws can be deemed as negligence. In the event of a collision between a motor vehicle and a pedestrian, the motorist may be held legally accountable for any resulting injuries due to such negligent behavior.

Failing to obey a traffic law can often serve as the basis for a claim of negligence in a lawsuit against a motorist when that failure to obey the law caused or contributed to a pedestrian accident. Negligence, in turn, must be proven by an injured victim for the victim to be entitled to compensation from the negligent party for the injuries or loss caused by the accident.

What Causes Lakeland Pedestrian Accidents?

Florida’s temperate climate coupled with its status as a favored tourist destination results in considerable pedestrian traffic throughout the state. Unfortunately, it also contributes to Florida’s ranking near the top of the list of states with the highest pedestrian accident injury rates.

  • Driving Aggressively: Driving aggressively, including weaving in and out of lanes, failing to yield, and tailgating makes it more likely that the driver will fail to notice a pedestrian until it is too late to avoid a collision.
  • Speed. In almost 1 in 10 pedestrian accidents, speed plays a role. Speeding in urban areas is particularly likely to add to the likelihood that a motorist will miss the presence of a pedestrian.
  • Failing to obey traffic laws. Disobeying traffic laws, many of which are specifically intended to keep pedestrians safe, increases the risk to pedestrians in the vicinity of a motorist.
  • Age. The State of Florida is inundated with retirees who frequently enjoy the ability to walk year-round. Sadly, victims over the age of 60 make up over 30 percent of the pedestrian fatalities in the state.
  • Driving Distracted. Defined as any activity that could divert attention from the primary task of driving by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), someone dies, on average, every day in the U.S. because of a distracted driving collision.
  • Driving While Impaired. Despite efforts to raise awareness about the dangers of driving while impaired by drugs or alcohol, about 30 percent of pedestrians ages 16 or older killed in motor vehicle crashes had a BAC of 0.08 or greater.

What Are Some Common Lakeland Pedestrian Accident Injuries?

It should come as no surprise given the massive difference in weight and speed, that the pedestrian typically fares much worse than the motorist when a vehicle collides with a pedestrian. Common pedestrian accident injuries include:

  • Traumatic brain injury (TBI).
  • Neck and back injuries.
  • Internal organ damage.
  • Soft tissue injury, including strains and sprains.
  • Paralysis and other spinal cord injuries.
  • Broken bones.
  • Loss of a limb.
  • “Road rash”
  • Lacerations and scarring.
  • Death

Get Reliable, Experienced Legal Help with Your Lakeland Pedestrian Accident Case

Attorney Adam Kemp is dedicated to seeking justice for victims injured or tragically lost in Lakeland pedestrian accidents. At Kemp Personal Injury Law, our commitment is to hold those responsible accountable and ensure that victims receive the compensation they rightfully deserve. With his background as an associate at one of America’s leading personal injury firms and as a former prosecuting attorney, attorney Adam Kemp possesses the skills and resources necessary to effectively advocate for injured individuals and their families affected by Lakeland pedestrian accidents.

If you have been injured in a Lakeland pedestrian accident or have lost a loved one in such an incident, contact a knowledgeable Lakeland pedestrian accident lawyer at Kemp Personal Injury Law to discuss your legal options. Our mission is to ensure that victims of preventable pedestrian accidents are fully and fairly compensated by the responsible parties. Reach out to our team today for a complimentary initial consultation by calling 863-225-0254 or by filling out our convenient online contact form.

Frequently Asked Questions

Liability in a pedestrian accident depends on factors such as driver negligence, traffic law violations, and road conditions. If the driver was speeding, distracted, intoxicated, or failed to yield, they are likely at fault. In some cases, a local government entity may be responsible if poor road design, malfunctioning traffic signals, or lack of proper crosswalks contributed to the accident. Pedestrians may also share partial fault if they were crossing illegally or walking in unsafe areas, though compensation may still be available under Florida’s comparative negligence rule. A knowledgeable attorney can analyze the accident details and determine the responsible parties.
In Florida, the statute of limitations for filing a pedestrian accident claim is generally two years from the date of the accident. However, cases involving government entities, such as accidents caused by poorly maintained roads, may have different deadlines and filing requirements. If you fail to file your claim within the legal timeframe, you may lose your right to pursue compensation. Since gathering evidence, obtaining medical records, and negotiating with insurance companies takes time, it is best to consult an attorney as soon as possible. A pedestrian accident attorney can help ensure that all legal deadlines are met and that your case is properly handled.
A pedestrian accident attorney can gather crucial evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and represent you in court if necessary. They can analyze police reports, medical records, and witness statements to build a strong case. Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts, but an attorney will advocate for your best interests and fight for full compensation. If a fair settlement cannot be reached, they can take your case to trial to seek justice. To discuss your case and legal options, contact us for a free consultation.

Additional Information in Lakeland, Florida

Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles - Pedestrian Safety: Comprehensive information on pedestrian laws, safety tips, and accident reporting procedures. It explains Florida’s right-of-way laws and when pedestrians have legal priority over vehicles. Victims of pedestrian accidents can use this resource to understand whether a driver violated state traffic laws. Attorneys often reference this site when proving negligence and demonstrating the legal responsibilities of both drivers and pedestrians. The page also discusses safety initiatives designed to reduce pedestrian injuries and fatalities. Accessing this resource can provide important insights into pedestrian rights and legal protections in Florida.
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration - Pedestrian Safety: Provides national data on pedestrian accidents, safety risks, and strategies to prevent injuries. This page outlines common causes of pedestrian accidents, such as distracted driving, failure to yield, and impaired driving. Victims can use this information to understand how their accident may have occurred and what safety measures could have prevented it. Attorneys frequently reference NHTSA reports to highlight national pedestrian safety concerns and strengthen legal arguments. The resource also includes pedestrian accident statistics and recommendations for improving road safety. Accessing this information can help victims and attorneys establish patterns of negligence in pedestrian accident cases.
Florida Department of Transportation - Pedestrian and Bicycle Safety: Offers programs and initiatives aimed at improving pedestrian safety throughout the state. This resource discusses infrastructure improvements, such as better crosswalk designs and pedestrian signals, which can impact liability in accident cases. Victims of pedestrian accidents can use this information to understand how poor road conditions or lack of proper traffic control may have contributed to their injury. Attorneys often reference FDOT findings to argue for road safety improvements or to hold municipalities accountable for dangerous intersections. The page also provides accident data and statistics on pedestrian injuries in Florida. Understanding these safety efforts can support a pedestrian accident claim by showing how road conditions may have played a role in the incident.

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99 6th St SW Suite 204

Winter Haven, FL 33880
1102 S. Florida Ave Suite 122
Lakeland, FL 33803
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Winter Haven, FL 33880
1102 S. Florida Ave Suite 122
Lakeland, FL 33803
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