Hollywood Pedestrian Accident Lawyer | Hollywood, FL Pedestrian Injury Attorneys
Pedestrian accidents in Hollywood, Florida, can result in devastating injuries and fatalities, leaving victims and their families facing significant physical, emotional, and financial hardships. When a negligent driver causes a pedestrian collision, Florida law allows victims to seek compensation for their medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.
At Flanagan & Bodenheimer Injury & Wrongful Death Law Firm, we are dedicated to representing pedestrians injured due to reckless and negligent drivers. Our law firm has successfully recovered millions for injured clients and families who have lost loved ones. With a small caseload approach, we ensure that each client receives personalized legal representation from start to finish.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a pedestrian accident in or near Hollywood, FL, call 305-638-4143 for a free consultation.
Hollywood Pedestrian Accident Statistics
Hollywood, FL, is a vibrant city with high pedestrian traffic, particularly along Hollywood Beach Boardwalk, Young Circle, and US-1. Unfortunately, these areas are also hotspots for pedestrian accidents.
According to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV):
- Florida consistently ranks among the most dangerous states for pedestrians.
- In 2024, over 10,000 pedestrian crashes occurred statewide, resulting in thousands of injuries and fatalities.
- Broward County has one of the highest rates of pedestrian injuries and deaths in the state, with over 1,200 pedestrian crashes in 2024.
These statistics highlight the serious risks pedestrians face and the importance of seeking legal representation after an accident.
Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents in Hollywood, FL
Florida Statute 316.130(15) requires drivers to exercise caution and avoid collisions with pedestrians. However, accidents often occur due to:
- Distracted Driving: Modern distractions such as texting, talking on the phone, adjusting a GPS, or interacting with in-car entertainment systems significantly reduce a driver’s awareness. Even a brief moment of inattention can lead to a devastating pedestrian accident, particularly in areas with heavy foot traffic like Hollywood Boulevard, Young Circle, and A1A.
- Drunk Driving: Alcohol and drug impairment hinder a driver’s reflexes, depth perception, and ability to make sound judgments. Drunk drivers often fail to recognize pedestrians in crosswalks or misjudge distances, increasing the likelihood of a serious collision. According to Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) data, alcohol-related pedestrian accidents are among the most fatal.
- Failure to Yield: Drivers are legally required to stop for pedestrians in marked crosswalks, but many fail to do so due to impatience, distraction, or ignorance of traffic laws. Florida Statute 316.130(7) specifically states that drivers must yield to pedestrians lawfully crossing in crosswalks, yet many motorists either ignore or fail to see pedestrians, leading to devastating accidents.
- Speeding: Drivers traveling above the speed limit have reduced reaction time and increased stopping distances. Speeding is particularly dangerous in residential neighborhoods, school zones, and entertainment districts where pedestrians frequently cross the street.
- Poor Visibility: Pedestrian accidents frequently occur at night when visibility is lower. Drivers who fail to use headlights, drive with fogged windshields, or neglect to slow down in dimly lit areas may not see pedestrians until it’s too late. Many fatal pedestrian crashes occur between 6 p.m. and midnight, especially on roads with poor street lighting or high-speed limits.
- Left-Hand Turn Collisions: One of the most common pedestrian accident scenarios involves left-turning drivers at intersections. While drivers may be focused on navigating the turn and avoiding oncoming traffic, they often fail to notice pedestrians crossing legally. These types of collisions are particularly common at busy intersections in Hollywood, such as those along US-1 and Sheridan Street.
Regardless of the cause, our Hollywood pedestrian accident lawyers will thoroughly investigate your case, gather evidence such as traffic camera footage, eyewitness testimonies, and accident reconstruction reports, and fight to establish liability.
Who Can Be Held Liable in a Pedestrian Accident?
Determining fault in a pedestrian accident is crucial for a successful legal claim. Potentially liable parties may include:
- Negligent Drivers: A driver who fails to obey traffic laws and injures a pedestrian can be held accountable.
- Property Owners & Municipalities: Poor road maintenance, faulty traffic signals, or lack of proper crosswalks can contribute to pedestrian accidents.
- Vehicle Manufacturers: If a vehicle defect played a role in the crash, the manufacturer may share liability.
- Third Parties: If a driver was working at the time of the accident, their employer may be responsible.
Our firm will thoroughly investigate all aspects of your case to identify every possible source of compensation.
Pedestrian Liability: Can a Pedestrian Be at Fault?
Under Florida Statute 316.130, pedestrians must follow traffic laws, such as using crosswalks and obeying traffic signals. However, even if a pedestrian was partially at fault, they may still recover compensation under Florida’s comparative negligence system (Florida Statute 768.81).
For example, if a court determines a pedestrian was 30% responsible for an accident, they can still recover 70% of their damages. If you are more than 50% at fault, you may not be able to recover compensation for the accident. Our pedestrian injury attorneys will fight to minimize any fault assigned to you and maximize your compensation.
Types of Compensation in a Pedestrian Accident Injury Claim
Pedestrian accident victims in Florida may recover economic and non-economic damages, including:
- Medical Expenses: Emergency care, surgeries, rehabilitation, and long-term treatment.
- Lost Wages: Compensation for time missed from work and future lost earnings.
- Pain and Suffering: Compensation for physical pain and emotional distress.
- Disability & Disfigurement: Long-term injuries requiring ongoing medical care.
- Wrongful Death Damages: Funeral expenses and loss of companionship for families who have lost a loved one.
If a driver’s actions were especially reckless or intentional, punitive damages may also be available.
How Our Hollywood Pedestrian Accident Lawyers Can Help
At Flanagan & Bodenheimer Injury & Wrongful Death Law Firm, we take a strategic, client-focused approach to pedestrian accident cases.
- Comprehensive Investigations: We gather evidence, analyze accident reports, and work with expert witnesses to build a strong case.
- Insurance Negotiations: Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts—we fight to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
- Trial-Ready Representation: We prepare every case as if it will go to trial, ensuring we are always in the best position for success.
- Personalized Legal Support: Unlike large firms that handle hundreds of cases, we keep our caseload small, ensuring personal attention from our attorneys.
- No Fees Unless We Win: We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you owe nothing unless we secure compensation for you.
Wrongful Death Claims for Fatal Pedestrian Accidents in Hollywood
If you have lost a loved one in a pedestrian accident, you may be entitled to file a wrongful death lawsuit under The Florida Wrongful Death Act. This legal provision allows eligible family members to seek compensation for the tragic loss of their loved one due to the negligence, recklessness, or intentional actions of another party. Wrongful death claims are complex and emotionally challenging, but they serve as a crucial means of holding responsible parties accountable and providing financial support to the surviving family members during an incredibly difficult time.
Under Florida law, only specific individuals are eligible to file a wrongful death claim. These typically include:
- Spouses
- Children
- Parents
- Other dependents
The personal representative files the lawsuit on behalf of the estate and the surviving family members, and any compensation awarded is distributed according to Florida’s intestacy laws or the deceased’s will.
Eligible family members can recover damages for:
- Funeral and burial expenses
- Loss of income and financial support
- Loss of companionship and emotional suffering
- Medical expenses incurred before death
In Florida, wrongful death claims are subject to a statute of limitations, which generally requires the lawsuit to be filed within two years of the date of death. However, there are exceptions to this rule, such as cases involving government entities, which may require earlier notice of the claim. It is crucial to consult with an attorney as soon as possible to ensure your claim is filed within the applicable deadlines.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do I have to file a pedestrian accident lawsuit in Florida?
As of March 2023, Florida law requires personal injury lawsuits to be filed within two years of the accident. If the case involves wrongful death, the deadline is also two years from the date of death.
How much does it cost to hire a pedestrian accident attorney?
At Flanagan & Bodenheimer Injury & Wrongful Death Law Firm, we work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing upfront. We only get paid if we win your case.
What if I was hit by a car while walking outside of a crosswalk?
You may still be eligible for compensation even if you were not in a designated crosswalk. Florida law requires drivers to exercise caution to avoid hitting pedestrians, and liability is determined based on the specific circumstances of the accident.
Will my pedestrian accident case go to trial?
Many pedestrian accident claims are settled through negotiations with insurance companies. However, if a fair settlement cannot be reached, our attorneys are fully prepared to take your case to court and fight for maximum compensation.
Contact Our Hollywood Pedestrian Accident Lawyers Today
At Flanagan & Bodenheimer, we believe that everyone deserves access to high-quality legal representation, especially during times of crisis. If you or a loved one has been injured in a pedestrian accident, don’t wait to seek legal help. The sooner you contact us, the sooner we can begin building a strong case on your behalf. With offices in Hollywood and Coral Gables, we serve clients throughout Florida and are available for virtual consultations.
Call us at 305-638-4143 or complete our online form for a free case evaluation. During this consultation, we will listen to your story, answer your questions, and explain your legal options. Let us help you seek justice and the compensation you deserve so you can focus on healing and moving forward with your life.