Lake City Pedestrian Accident Lawyer

Struck by a Negligent Motorist While Walking the Streets of Lake City, FL?

At Schackow & Mercadante, we understand the significant impact that pedestrian accidents can have on victims and their families. Pedestrians are among the most vulnerable road users, and even a minor collision can result in life-changing injuries or fatalities. If you or a loved one has been injured in a pedestrian accident in Lake City, Florida, it’s crucial to seek the help of an experienced legal team. Our skilled Lake City pedestrian accident lawyers are here to fight for your rights and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.

Call (352) 261-6767 or fill out our online contact form today request a free case review.

Florida Pedestrian Laws

Pedestrians in Florida are protected by a variety of laws designed to keep them safe while navigating streets, crosswalks, and other public spaces. Florida Statutes §316.130 outlines several key provisions governing pedestrian safety, including:

• Crosswalk Rights: Drivers must yield to pedestrians in marked crosswalks. Failure to do so can result in liability for any injury caused.
• Sidewalk Rules: When sidewalks are available, pedestrians are required to use them instead of walking on the road.
• Pedestrian Signals: Pedestrians must obey traffic signals and pedestrian-specific signals. Crossing against a signal may reduce the liability of a driver in an accident.
• Walking Along the Roadway: If there is no sidewalk, pedestrians should walk on the left side of the road, facing traffic.

Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents

Pedestrian accidents can occur for a wide array of reasons, but they often stem from driver negligence. Some of the most common causes of pedestrian accidents include:

• Distracted Driving: With the rise of smartphones, distracted driving has become a leading cause of accidents. Drivers who are texting, talking on the phone, or using GPS systems may not notice pedestrians in time to avoid a collision.
• Speeding: Speeding reduces a driver’s reaction time and increases the severity of injuries in the event of a crash. Pedestrians are particularly vulnerable to high-speed collisions.
• Failure to Yield: Many pedestrian accidents occur because drivers fail to yield the right of way at crosswalks or intersections.
• Drunk Driving: Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs impairs a driver’s ability to make sound decisions, recognize pedestrians, and stop in time.
• Poor Visibility: Pedestrian accidents are more likely to happen at night or during inclement weather when drivers have difficulty seeing pedestrians on the road.
• Left Turns at Intersections: Drivers making left-hand turns often focus on oncoming traffic and may fail to see pedestrians crossing the street.

Who is Liable for a Pedestrian Accident?

Determining liability in a pedestrian accident case can be complex, as multiple parties may share responsibility. In Florida, the party responsible for causing the accident can be held liable for the victim's injuries. However, the state's comparative negligence law allows for the possibility that the pedestrian may share some of the blame. Under this system, if a pedestrian is found partially responsible for the accident (for example, by jaywalking or crossing against a signal), their compensation may be reduced by their percentage of fault.

The potentially liable parties in a pedestrian accident may include:

• The Driver: In most pedestrian accidents, the driver of the vehicle involved is the liable party, particularly if they were speeding, distracted, or under the influence.
• Government Entities: If poor road conditions or improper signage contributed to the accident, a government entity responsible for road maintenance may be partially liable.
• Vehicle Manufacturers: In rare cases, a defective vehicle part (such as faulty brakes) may contribute to an accident, making the manufacturer responsible.
• Other Pedestrians or Cyclists: In some cases, another pedestrian or cyclist’s negligence may play a role in causing the accident.

Why Choose Schackow & Mercadante?

Choosing the right legal representation after a pedestrian accident is critical to achieving the compensation you deserve. At Schackow & Mercadante, we offer:

• Experience: With decades of experience handling personal injury and pedestrian accident cases, our Lake City pedestrian accident lawyers have the knowledge and skills necessary to fight for your rights.
• Personalized Attention: We take a client-centered approach, ensuring that you receive personalized attention and compassionate guidance throughout the legal process.
• Proven Results: We have a proven track record of securing significant settlements and verdicts for our clients.
• No Fees Unless We Win: We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you won’t pay any legal fees unless we successfully recover compensation for you.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a pedestrian accident in Lake City, Florida, don’t hesitate to contact Schackow & Mercadante at (352) 261-6767 for a free consultation and take the first step toward justice.