Orlando Pedestrian Accident Lawyer
Orlando's explosive growth, tourist-heavy traffic, and sprawling road design have created one of the most dangerous pedestrian environments in America. When a negligent driver strikes you while walking, the injuries are often catastrophic or fatal.
At Cardinal Law, our experienced Orlando pedestrian accident lawyers fight aggressively for victims struck by vehicles throughout Orange County. We understand the unique challenges of pedestrian cases in Florida's most visited tourist destination and work tirelessly to secure maximum compensation for your injuries.
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Florida's Pedestrian Fatality Crisis
#1
Most Dangerous State for Pedestrians in America
800+
Florida Pedestrian Deaths Annually
10,000+
Pedestrians Injured Each Year in FL
75M
Annual Visitors to Orlando
Florida's Pedestrian Fatality Crisis: Understanding the Danger
Florida consistently ranks as the most dangerous state for pedestrians in the United States, and Orlando sits at the epicenter of this public health crisis. Year after year, studies from the Governors Highway Safety Association, Smart Growth America, and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration confirm what residents and visitors already know: walking in Florida can be deadly.
The statistics paint a grim picture. Florida accounts for approximately 10% of the nation's pedestrian fatalities despite having only 6.5% of the U.S. population. The Orlando-Kissimmee-Sanford metropolitan area regularly appears among the most dangerous metro areas for pedestrians in the country, with a pedestrian fatality rate significantly higher than the national average.
Several factors converge to make Orlando particularly hazardous for those on foot. The city's car-centric design prioritizes vehicle throughput over pedestrian safety. Wide, high-speed arterial roads with infrequent crossings force pedestrians to make dangerous mid-block crossings. Inadequate sidewalk infrastructure in many areas leaves walkers with no choice but to travel alongside fast-moving traffic. Poor street lighting, particularly in areas with high nighttime pedestrian activity, contributes to the danger.
Tourism adds another layer of complexity. With approximately 75 million visitors annually, Orlando's roads are filled with drivers unfamiliar with local traffic patterns, distracted by navigation systems, or confused by the area's complicated road network. These factors combine to create an environment where pedestrians face constant danger.
Orlando's Most Dangerous Areas for Pedestrians
Certain corridors in Orlando present extreme risks for pedestrians due to high speeds, heavy traffic, inadequate infrastructure, and the unique mix of tourists and locals sharing the roadways.
International Drive (I-Drive)
Heavy tourist foot traffic, rental car confusion
Orange Blossom Trail (OBT)
High-speed traffic, minimal pedestrian infrastructure
Colonial Drive (SR 50)
Major arterial with limited crossings
Kirkman Road
Theme park corridor, distracted drivers
Sand Lake Road
Restaurant Row, nighttime pedestrian activity
University Boulevard (UCF)
Student pedestrians, high traffic volume
Additional High-Risk Locations
Tourist Corridors
- Universal Boulevard - Theme park pedestrian traffic
- Turkey Lake Road - Hotel and attraction areas
- Vineland Road - Outlet mall and Disney area
- Palm Parkway - Lake Buena Vista resort corridor
Urban Corridors
- Semoran Boulevard (SR 436) - High-speed commercial strip
- John Young Parkway - Limited pedestrian facilities
- Pine Hills Road - Residential area with poor lighting
- Alafaya Trail - UCF student pedestrian area
Types of Pedestrian Accidents in Orlando
Pedestrian accidents can occur in numerous ways throughout Orlando. Our experienced attorneys handle all types of pedestrian collision cases.
Crosswalk Accidents
Drivers failing to yield to pedestrians in marked and unmarked crosswalks at intersections
Parking Lot Accidents
Pedestrians struck in shopping centers, theme park lots, and hotel parking areas
Hit-and-Run Accidents
Drivers fleeing scene after striking pedestrians, common in tourist areas
Backing Accidents
Pedestrians hit by vehicles reversing in driveways, parking spaces, and lots
Tourist Corridor Accidents
Visitors unfamiliar with traffic patterns struck near attractions
Intersection Accidents
Pedestrians hit by turning vehicles or drivers running red lights
Catastrophic Injuries in Orlando Pedestrian Accidents
When a vehicle strikes a pedestrian, the human body has virtually no protection against the massive force of the impact. Unlike vehicle occupants who have airbags, seat belts, and the vehicle frame to absorb impact energy, pedestrians absorb the full force directly, often resulting in devastating, life-altering injuries.
The severity of pedestrian injuries is reflected in the statistics: pedestrians are 1.5 times more likely to be killed in a traffic crash than vehicle occupants. Those who survive often face lengthy recoveries, permanent disabilities, and significant financial hardship from mounting medical bills and lost income.
Common Pedestrian Accident Injuries
- Fatal injuries and wrongful death
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
- Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
- Multiple bone fractures
- Internal organ damage
- Severe road rash and lacerations
- Amputations and limb loss
- Soft tissue injuries
- Psychological trauma and PTSD
Establishing Liability in Orlando Pedestrian Accident Cases
Determining fault in a pedestrian accident requires careful investigation and understanding of Florida traffic laws. While many assume the driver is always at fault when a pedestrian is struck, the reality is more nuanced. Florida follows a comparative negligence system, meaning compensation can be reduced based on the pedestrian's share of fault.
Common Forms of Driver Negligence
- Failure to yield to pedestrians in crosswalks
- Distracted driving (texting, phone use, GPS)
- Speeding in pedestrian areas
- Running red lights or stop signs
- Drunk or impaired driving
- Failure to exercise due care
- Improper turns without checking for pedestrians
- Backing up without proper observation
Florida Pedestrian Rights and Responsibilities
Under Florida Statute 316.130, drivers must:
- Yield to pedestrians in crosswalks
- Exercise due care to avoid colliding with pedestrians
- Give warning by sounding horn when necessary
Even if a pedestrian was jaywalking or crossing outside a crosswalk, the driver may still bear significant liability if they failed to exercise due care or were negligent in any way. Our attorneys thoroughly investigate every aspect of your accident to establish maximum liability against negligent drivers.
Tourism's Impact on Orlando Pedestrian Safety
Unique Challenges in the Tourist Capital
Orlando welcomes approximately 75 million visitors annually, making it one of the most visited destinations in the world. This massive influx of tourists creates unique pedestrian safety challenges not found in other cities.
Tourists driving rental cars may be unfamiliar with Orlando's road network, distracted by navigation systems, or confused by the area's complicated interchanges. Many visitors come from locations with different traffic patterns and may not anticipate pedestrian behavior on Florida's high-speed roads.
Additionally, tourists on foot may not understand the dangers of Orlando's car-centric infrastructure. Visitors accustomed to walkable cities may attempt to cross multi-lane arterials or walk along roads without sidewalks, putting themselves at extreme risk.
High-Risk Resort and Attraction Areas
- International Drive: Heavy pedestrian activity, multiple attractions, hotels, and restaurants drawing foot traffic across busy roads
- Walt Disney World Resort Area: Massive resort complex with pedestrians crossing between hotels, theme parks, and Disney Springs
- Universal Orlando Resort: CityWalk and theme park areas with high evening pedestrian traffic
- Orange County Convention Center: Major events bring concentrated pedestrian activity to an area designed for vehicle access
Compensation Available for Orlando Pedestrian Accident Victims
Pedestrian accident victims in Florida may be entitled to substantial compensation for their injuries and losses. Our Orlando pedestrian accident lawyers fight to recover every dollar you deserve.
Economic Damages
- Emergency medical treatment and hospital bills
- Surgery and ongoing medical care
- Physical therapy and rehabilitation
- Prescription medications
- Medical equipment (wheelchairs, walkers, etc.)
- Lost wages and income
- Future lost earning capacity
- Home modifications for disabilities
- Long-term care costs
Non-Economic Damages
- Physical pain and suffering
- Emotional distress and mental anguish
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Permanent disability or disfigurement
- Loss of consortium (spouse claims)
- Psychological trauma and PTSD
- Scarring and disfigurement
- Loss of independence
- Wrongful death damages for families
What to Do After a Pedestrian Accident in Orlando
The steps you take immediately following a pedestrian accident can significantly impact your ability to recover compensation. Here is what you should do:
Immediate Steps at the Scene
- 1Call 911 immediately - Report the accident and request medical assistance, even if injuries seem minor
- 2Seek medical attention - Many serious injuries are not immediately apparent; get a thorough medical evaluation
- 3Document the scene - If possible, take photos of the accident location, your injuries, and the vehicle involved
- 4Get driver information - Obtain the driver's name, contact, insurance information, and license plate number
- 5Collect witness information - Get names and phone numbers of anyone who saw the accident
Protecting Your Rights
- Do not admit fault - Even apologizing can be used against you; let the investigation determine fault
- Do not give recorded statements - Insurance adjusters may try to get statements that hurt your case
- Keep detailed records - Document all medical treatments, expenses, and how injuries affect your daily life
- Follow all medical advice - Missing appointments or ignoring treatment can hurt your claim
- Contact an attorney promptly - Early legal guidance helps preserve evidence and protect your rights
- Avoid quick settlement offers - Insurance companies often lowball initial offers before the full extent of injuries is known
Orlando Area Communities We Serve
Our Orlando pedestrian accident lawyers represent victims throughout Orange County and the greater Orlando metropolitan area. We understand the local roads, traffic patterns, and courts.
- Downtown Orlando
- Winter Park
- College Park
- Thornton Park
- Lake Nona
- Dr. Phillips
- Windermere
- Maitland
- Altamonte Springs
- Apopka
- Winter Garden
- Ocoee
- International Drive
- Disney Area
- Universal Area
- SeaWorld Area
- Convention Center
- Pine Hills
We also serve pedestrian accident victims in Seminole County (Sanford, Lake Mary, Longwood), Osceola County (Kissimmee, St. Cloud, Celebration), and throughout Central Florida.
Frequently Asked Questions About Orlando Pedestrian Accidents
How much is my Orlando pedestrian accident case worth?
The value of your pedestrian accident case depends on several factors including the severity of your injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and long-term disability. Pedestrian accidents often result in severe injuries, making compensation amounts typically higher than other types of accidents. Our Orlando pedestrian accident lawyers will evaluate your specific case and fight for maximum compensation.
What if I was jaywalking when hit by a car in Orlando?
Even if you were jaywalking or crossing outside a crosswalk, you may still be entitled to compensation under Florida's comparative negligence law. Drivers have a duty to exercise due care and avoid hitting pedestrians regardless of where they are walking. While your compensation may be reduced based on your percentage of fault, you can still recover damages if the driver was partially at fault.
What should I do immediately after being hit by a car in Orlando?
First, call 911 and seek medical attention immediately, even if injuries seem minor. Document the scene with photos if possible, get the driver's information and insurance details, collect witness contact information, and file a police report. Do not admit fault or give recorded statements to insurance companies. Contact an Orlando pedestrian accident lawyer as soon as possible to protect your rights.
How long do I have to file a pedestrian accident lawsuit in Florida?
Under Florida's statute of limitations, you generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. However, if the pedestrian was killed, wrongful death claims have a two-year deadline from the date of death. Some exceptions may apply, so it is crucial to consult with an Orlando pedestrian accident attorney promptly to ensure you do not miss important deadlines.
Can I sue if I was hit by a tourist or rental car driver in Orlando?
Yes, you can pursue compensation if hit by a tourist or rental car driver. These cases may involve out-of-state insurance policies, rental car company coverage, and additional complexities. Our attorneys have extensive experience with tourist-related accidents in Orlando's theme park corridors and know how to navigate claims involving visitors and rental vehicles.
What if the driver who hit me fled the scene in a hit-and-run?
Hit-and-run pedestrian accidents are unfortunately common in Orlando. Even if the driver is not identified, you may recover compensation through your own uninsured motorist coverage. Our attorneys can also investigate to help identify the driver through surveillance footage, witness statements, and police reports. We will explore every avenue to secure compensation for your injuries.
Why Choose Cardinal Law for Your Orlando Pedestrian Accident Case
- Central Florida expertise - Deep knowledge of Orlando's dangerous roads and traffic patterns
- Tourist accident experience - Extensive experience with rental car and visitor-related accidents
- No upfront fees - You pay nothing unless we win your case
- Orange County court experience - Familiarity with local judges and procedures
- Aggressive negotiation - We fight insurance companies for maximum compensation
- Trial-ready representation - Prepared to take your case to court if necessary
- 24/7 availability - We are here when you need us most
- Free case evaluation - Immediate answers to your questions
Contact Our Orlando Office
If you or a loved one has been injured in a pedestrian accident in Orlando or anywhere in Orange County, contact Cardinal Law today for a free consultation.
(407) 501-5541200 E Robinson Street, Suite 1120
Orlando, FL 32801
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Visit Our Florida Offices
Cardinal Law has offices throughout Florida to serve you better. Our main office is in Naples, with additional locations by appointment.
Naples Office
Main Office9045 Strada Stell Court
Suite 305
Naples, FL 34109
Orlando Office
200 E Robinson Street
Suite 1120
Orlando, FL 32801
Tampa Office
401 East Jackson Street
Suite 2340
Tampa, FL 33602
Miami Office
848 Brickell Avenue
Suite PH5
Miami, FL 33131
Fort Myers Office
5237 Summerlin Commons Blvd
Suite 511
Fort Myers, FL 33907
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