Pedestrian accidents in Florida are rising due to local drivers and tourists traveling in unfamiliar areas. However, pedestrians can inadvertently increase the likelihood of accidents happening. When people walking or running understand the rules of the road, they can reduce their chances of being injured in an accident.
Many people mistakenly assume that pedestrians always have the right of way, but they do not. Motor vehicles have the right of way in almost every situation, but drivers are still responsible for looking out for pedestrians. The skilled pedestrian accident attorneys at Dannheiser Injury Law can help you understand traffic laws for Sarasota pedestrians and how they might impact your personal injury claim.
Florida Statutes § 316.003(53) defines a pedestrian as anyone afoot. However, the definition is broader than people walking, jogging, or running. It includes people on skates, skateboards, and foot-powered scooters, as well as those in wheelchairs. Bicyclists are not pedestrians, even on sidewalks or other pedestrian walkways, because the law treats cyclists as vehicle operators. A person does not have to be moving to be considered a pedestrian. Anyone afoot is a pedestrian subject to Sarasota’s traffic laws for pedestrians.
Typically, motorized vehicles and bicycles have the right of way on the streets as they are designed for vehicular traffic, while sidewalks are for pedestrians. However, approaching vehicles must stop or yield to the pedestrian when they are legally in an intersection or crosswalk. The rule applies not only to drivers but also to bikers and cyclists. In addition to a potential fine, drivers who violate this rule can get points on their driver’s license.
A pedestrian in Sarasota is legally in the crosswalk when crossing in marked crosswalks or at traffic intersections. If the intersection has a signal, whether a traffic signal or a walk/do not walk signal, then pedestrians must follow the instructions for it to have the right of way.
Drivers must yield to pedestrians in marked and unmarked crosswalks unless a sign indicates that the crosswalk is closed. In those instances, drivers should still yield to pedestrians in all situations where it is safe. When another car is stopped to allow pedestrians to pass, it is illegal to pass that vehicle.
Regardless of the right of way, drivers must follow the relevant traffic laws and be prepared to stop for pedestrians, animals, emergency vehicles, and other road hazards in Sarasota. Even if a pedestrian does not have the right of way, the motor vehicle driver could be at fault in an accident if they could avoid it.
Although pedestrians need to follow applicable rules and regulations to stay safe, you may be able to pursue compensation if you have been hurt in an accident. Let our diligent team advocate for you so you can focus on healing.
The experienced lawyers at Dannheiser Injury Law can provide further information about traffic laws for Sarasota pedestrians. Call our firm today to schedule a consultation to discuss your case.
