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Walking should be a safe and convenient way to get around Lakeland, Winter Haven, Bartow, and other communities in Polk County, but reckless drivers make the roads dangerous for pedestrians. Whether you were crossing the street, walking along a sidewalk, or navigating a parking lot, a negligent driver can cause life-altering injuries in an instant.
At Kemp Injury Law, we help injured pedestrians hold careless drivers accountable. If you or a loved one has been struck by a vehicle in Polk County, we are ready to fight for the compensation you need to recover from your injuries.
Pedestrian accidents are common in areas with heavy traffic, poor visibility, or inadequate crosswalks. Some of the most dangerous locations in Polk County include:
Pedestrians are especially vulnerable at crosswalks, parking lots, bus stops, and school zones. Even when pedestrians follow traffic laws, reckless drivers can still cause severe accidents.
Many pedestrian accidents happen because drivers fail to pay attention or ignore traffic laws. Some of the most common causes include:
If you are hit by a car while walking, taking the right steps can protect your health and your legal rights:
Related: Can You Sue for a Pedestrian Accident in a Parking Lot in Florida?
Pedestrians have no protection against the force of a moving vehicle, which means injuries are often severe or life-threatening. Common pedestrian accident injuries include:
Many victims require extensive medical treatment, rehabilitation, and long-term care, making it crucial to pursue full compensation for their losses. In the event of a wrongful death, this compensation becomes even more vital to support the surviving family members and hold the responsible parties accountable.
At Kemp Injury Law, we handle a variety of personal injury cases, including:
If you or a loved one has been injured in a pedestrian accident, Kemp Injury Law is ready to fight for your rights. We understand the devastating impact of these accidents and will work tirelessly to recover the compensation you deserve.
Call us today for a free consultation and take the first step toward justice.
In 2026, what changes if I was hit by a city, county, or other government vehicle in Polk County?
Claims involving government entities can trigger special written notice requirements before a lawsuit can proceed, including notice to the appropriate agency and, for many claims, the Florida Department of Financial Services. Florida’s sovereign immunity statute also sets general recovery limits of $200,000 per person and $300,000 per incident, unless additional payment is authorized by the Legislature.
Can I still recover damages if I was partially at fault for the accident?
Yes, under Florida’s modified comparative negligence laws, you can still recover compensation as long as you were not more than 50% at fault. If you are found partially liable, your damages may be reduced by the percentage of fault assigned to you. For example, if you were 20% at fault, you could still recover 80% of your damages. Determining fault in a pedestrian accident can be complex, especially in busy Polk County intersections. An experienced attorney can help build a strong case to minimize your liability and maximize your compensation. At Kemp Law Group, we carefully investigate each case to challenge unfair fault assignments.
How long do I have to file a pedestrian accident lawsuit in Florida?
In Florida, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is typically two years from the date of the injury. However, certain cases, such as those involving government entities or medical malpractice, may have different deadlines. Failing to file within the allowed timeframe may result in losing your right to seek compensation. Because gathering evidence and preparing a case takes time, it is crucial to consult with an attorney as soon as possible. A personal injury attorney can ensure all legal deadlines are met and that your claim is properly filed.
How does crosswalk use affect pedestrian accident claims in Florida?
Using a crosswalk strengthens a pedestrian’s claim by showing they were following traffic laws. Drivers must yield to pedestrians in marked crosswalks under Florida law. If a pedestrian was outside a crosswalk, the driver may argue comparative negligence. However, being outside a crosswalk does not eliminate recovery if the driver was still careless. Attorneys use traffic camera footage, police reports, and witness testimony to clarify fault. Whether or not a crosswalk was used, pedestrians can still pursue valid claims.
Can I file a claim if the accident happened at night and visibility was low?
Yes. Low visibility does not excuse drivers from their duty to watch for pedestrians. Drivers must use headlights, reduce speed, and remain alert, especially at night. Failure to do so may establish negligence. If you were wearing reflective gear or using sidewalks, this strengthens your case further. Attorneys will review lighting conditions, driver actions, and roadway design to prove liability. Nighttime accidents can be complex, but injured pedestrians still have strong legal protections.
What if the driver fled the scene after hitting a pedestrian?
Hit-and-run pedestrian accidents are unfortunately common in Florida. Victims can pursue compensation through their own uninsured motorist (UM) coverage if the driver cannot be identified. Police reports, surveillance cameras, and eyewitness testimony can help track down the driver. If found, the driver may face both civil and criminal penalties. Attorneys often assist in coordinating with law enforcement while pursuing compensation. This ensures victims are not left without financial recovery after a hit-and-run.
Why should I choose Kemp Injury Law for my pedestrian accident case?
Kemp Injury Law has years of experience representing injured pedestrians in Polk County and throughout Florida. We understand how traumatic and life-altering a pedestrian accident can be, especially when it results in serious injury or disability. Our attorneys conduct thorough investigations, gather evidence, and fight insurance companies that try to minimize your claim. We have a strong track record of securing full compensation for our clients. From start to finish, we provide personal, compassionate support along with aggressive legal representation. If you’ve been injured, reach out to us today to discuss your legal options.
