Orlando Pedestrian Accident Lawyer
Most people don’t expect that a quick walk to the store or a jog through their neighborhood could lead to a life-altering event. But pedestrian accidents happen more often than you might think, and the consequences can be devastating.
At The Law Offices of Pardy & Rodriguez, we’ve helped countless injury victims across Florida get justice after being hit by a car. If you’re looking for an experienced Orlando accident lawyer, our team is here to guide you through every step of your recovery—physically, emotionally, and financially.
We understand what you’re going through because we’ve represented people just like you—pedestrians who were simply in the wrong place at the wrong time when a distracted, reckless, or speeding driver caused serious harm. Let us fight for the compensation you deserve.
Florida’s Pedestrian Accident Problem: The Numbers Don’t Lie
Florida is one of the most dangerous states for pedestrians. According to the Governors Highway Safety Association, Florida had the second-highest number of pedestrian fatalities in the United States in 2023. The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) reported more than 10,200 pedestrian crashes in the state that year, with over 780 resulting in fatalities.
Here in Orlando, pedestrian accidents are alarmingly common. From busy intersections near the theme parks to downtown crosswalks and suburban neighborhoods, no area is immune. According to recent data from Smart Growth America, in the Orlando-Kissimmee-Sanford metro area, pedestrian deaths made up nearly 25% of all traffic fatalities.
Common Causes of Pedestrian Collisions in Orlando
Pedestrian accidents often happen because drivers weren’t paying attention or failed to follow traffic laws. As your trusted pedestrian collision attorneys in Orlando, we investigate all the factors to determine exactly what went wrong. Some of the most common causes we’ve seen include the following:
- Distracted driving (texting, using GPS, eating behind the wheel)
- Failure to yield at crosswalks
- Speeding, especially in school zones or residential areas
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Running red lights or stop signs
- Illegal U-turns or reckless lane changes
- Backing up without looking in driveways or parking lots
No matter the cause, the outcome for a pedestrian is often catastrophic. Unlike drivers, pedestrians have no protection from impact, so these crashes result in severe injuries.
What Injuries Do Pedestrians Typically Suffer?
As pedestrian accident attorneys in Orlando, we’ve seen firsthand the trauma these accidents can cause. Some of the most serious injuries include:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
- Spinal cord injuries
- Fractured bones and shattered limbs
- Internal organ damage
- Lacerations and disfigurement
- Pelvic injuries
- Wrongful death
Even what might appear to be a minor injury can lead to chronic pain, mobility issues, or costly medical treatment down the line. That’s why it’s so important to work with an experienced accident lawyer in Orlando, FL, who understands how to calculate short- and long-term damages.
Understanding Your Legal Rights as a Pedestrian in Florida
Florida law requires drivers to yield the right of way to pedestrians at marked crosswalks and intersections. According to Florida Statutes §316.130, pedestrians have the legal right to cross the street when traffic signals indicate it is safe. Drivers must stop and allow pedestrians to pass when they are in a crosswalk, even if the driver has a green light.
However, the law also requires pedestrians to follow the rules. For instance, crossing against a signal or darting into traffic mid-block can affect a claim.
Florida follows a modified comparative negligence rule, meaning if a pedestrian is partially at fault for an accident—say, by jaywalking—their percentage of fault may reduce their compensation. If you’re found to be more than 50% at fault, you may not be eligible to recover damages.
We help our clients build strong, evidence-based cases to minimize fault and maximize recovery. If you were injured in a crash, our firm’s skilled Orlando pedestrian accident lawyer can help you determine liability and fight back against insurance company blame tactics.
What To Do After a Pedestrian Accident in Orlando
The minutes and hours following a pedestrian accident can be confusing, painful, and overwhelming. Here’s what you should do:
- Get medical attention immediately, even if you think your injuries are minor. Internal injuries and head trauma may not show symptoms right away.
- Call the police and file an accident report. This creates an official record of the incident.
- Gather evidence if possible. Take photos of the scene, your injuries, the vehicle, crosswalks, or traffic lights. Collect contact info from any witnesses.
- Avoid talking to the driver’s insurance company before speaking with a pedestrian accident attorney in Orlando.
- Call our office. We’ll provide a free consultation to assess your case and help protect your rights.
Why Choose The Law Offices of Pardy & Rodriguez?
We proudly serve clients across Florida with personalized legal guidance and aggressive representation. When you choose our firm, you get:
- Decades of experience handling pedestrian and auto accident claims
- Bilingual legal team ready to serve English- and Spanish-speaking clients
- Proven track record of securing favorable settlements and trial verdicts
- Responsive communication throughout the claims process
- No fees unless we win—we work on a contingency fee basis
Our job is to focus on the legal battle so you can focus on healing. We’ve been helping injury victims throughout Orlando for years, and we’re ready to fight for you.
How Much Is My Pedestrian Accident Case Worth?
Every case is different. The value of your claim depends on the severity of your injuries, your medical costs, your lost wages, and the impact the accident has had on your life. In general, we help our clients pursue compensation for:
- Medical bills (past, present, and future)
- Lost income and reduced earning potential
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Disability or disfigurement
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Property damage (if personal items were damaged in the accident)
In fatal pedestrian accidents, we help families file wrongful death claims to seek funeral expenses, lost companionship, and more. Our team of pedestrian collision attorneys in Orlando will calculate every potential damage to ensure you’re not shortchanged.
Time Limits for Filing a Claim in Florida
In Florida, you generally have two years from the date of a pedestrian accident to file a personal injury lawsuit under the state’s statute of limitations (Florida Statutes §95.11). If you miss this deadline, your claim may be dismissed, and you’ll lose your right to pursue compensation.
Don’t wait until it’s too late. Insurance companies may try to delay, deny, or devalue your case. The sooner you contact a knowledgeable Orlando pedestrian accident lawyer, the better your chances of building a strong case.
How We Build a Winning Case
Here’s how we work to support your claim:
- Investigate thoroughly: We analyze traffic camera footage, police reports, and eyewitness testimony.
- Work with medical experts: Document the extent of your injuries and future care needs.
- Handle all paperwork: Filing insurance claims, legal notices, and court documents.
- Negotiate aggressively: With insurers who try to underpay or deny valid claims.
- Prepare for trial if necessary: Some cases settle quickly, but we’re always ready to go to court to protect your interests.
Frequently Asked Questions: Orlando Pedestrian Accidents
What if I was hit by a car while crossing outside a crosswalk? Can I still file a claim?
Yes, you may still have a valid claim. While crosswalk use helps establish a stronger case, drivers must operate their vehicles responsibly and watch for pedestrians. As your Orlando pedestrian accident lawyer, we will evaluate all factors—lighting, visibility, signage, and driver speed—to determine liability.
How long does a pedestrian accident case take to resolve?
It depends on the complexity of the case. Some claims settle within a few months, while others take a year or more—especially if litigation is required. We keep our clients informed at every stage. Our goal is to resolve your case efficiently without compromising the compensation you deserve.
Can I afford a pedestrian accident attorney in Orlando?
Yes. At The Law Offices of Pardy & Rodriguez, we work on a contingency fee basis. That means you pay nothing upfront. We only collect a fee if we win your case. There are no out-of-pocket legal fees or surprise costs.
What if the driver who hit me fled the scene?
Unfortunately, hit-and-run pedestrian accidents are common. If the at-fault driver cannot be located, we can explore coverage options under your uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) or a family member’s policy. We’ll help you understand your rights and maximize your options.
Can I still file a claim if I was partially at fault?
Yes. Florida’s modified comparative fault rule allows you to recover compensation if you were not more than 50% responsible for the accident. However, your compensation will be reduced by the percentage of your fault. Let our pedestrian accident attorneys in Orlando help protect your rights.
Schedule Your Free Consultation Today
If you’ve been hurt in a pedestrian accident, you shouldn’t have to face the aftermath alone. Let our team at The Law Offices of Pardy & Rodriguez stand up for your rights. We’ll walk you through your legal options, handle the insurance companies, and help you get the compensation you deserve.
We’re your trusted accident lawyers in Orlando, FL—ready to fight for you.
Call us today or complete our contact form to schedule your free, no-obligation case evaluation.
