Orlando, Florida is famous for its theme parks and lively atmosphere, drawing in tourists, locals, and commuters alike. But beneath the excitement of the city lies a troubling truth – pedestrian accidents happen too often. Whether it’s in the magical world of Disney or the busy streets downtown, pedestrians and drivers face a tricky mix of traffic and people. Understanding why these accidents happen is crucial for making our streets safer for everyone. 

Many pedestrian accidents in Orlando happen because drivers aren’t paying enough attention. They might be looking at their phones, rushing to get somewhere, or just not focused on the road. This lack of attention can lead to terrible outcomes. Sadly, most pedestrian accidents occur in Orlando because of driver negligence. Although pedestrian negligence may play a role, it’s more likely that the driver simply wasn’t focused on the road, and this is unacceptable. If you have been injured as a pedestrian or lost a loved one in a pedestrian accident, it is important to speak to an attorney to learn your rights.   

The Leading Cause of Pedestrian Accidents is Driver Negligence 

One of the primary culprits behind pedestrian accidents in Orlando is driver negligence. This can include distracted driving, speeding, failure to yield to pedestrians at crosswalks, or disregarding traffic signals. With the city’s constant flow of traffic and various distractions, drivers may not always prioritize pedestrian safety, leading to potentially disastrous consequences. 

Here are some ways drivers may be negligent:  

• Distracted driving, including: 

• Texting or using smartphones while driving 
• Eating or drinking behind the wheel 
• Adjusting GPS devices or entertainment systems 
• Talking to other passengers in a way that takes the driver’s eyes from the road 

• Speeding: 

• Exceeding posted speed limits 
• Driving too fast for road or weather conditions 

• Failure to yield to pedestrians: 

• Ignoring crosswalks and pedestrian right-of-way 
• Failing to stop at intersections when pedestrians are crossing 

• Disregarding traffic signals: 

• Running red lights or stop signs 
• Failing to obey pedestrian crossing signals 

• Impaired driving: 

• Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs 
• Operating a vehicle while fatigued or sleep-deprived 

• Aggressive driving behavior: 

• Tailgating or following too closely behind pedestrians 
• Making unsafe lane changes or sudden maneuvers 

• Inattention to surroundings: 

• Failing to scan for pedestrians, especially at intersections or crosswalks 
• Not checking blind spots before turning or changing lanes 

Each of these forms of negligence contributes to the heightened risk of pedestrian accidents on the streets of Orlando and underscores the importance of responsible driving behavior. Even if the police or other authorities did not deem the driver reckless, it is important to speak to an attorney about your case. Most pedestrian accidents occur because the driver was negligent, and attorneys can determine how they were negligent and negotiate a settlement with their insurance company.  

Pedestrian Negligence and Infrastructure are Sometimes the Cause of Pedestrian Accidents 

The mix of residents and millions of tourists who visit Orlando each year brings extra challenges for pedestrian safety. Visitors who don’t know the local traffic rules can make the roads more chaotic, especially when combined with not-so-great infrastructure. As Orlando keeps growing, it’s important to face these challenges head-on and find ways to make sure pedestrians are safe and everyone can get around smoothly. 

Pedestrians need to be careful to prevent accidents. Ignoring rules like crossing when the light says not to or walking where they shouldn’t increase the chances of getting hurt. In busy spots like downtown Orlando or around tourist attractions, it’s crucial for pedestrians to pay attention to traffic signals and follow the rules to avoid accidents. Always use the provided sidewalks, and never walk on the shoulder of the road.  

Orlando’s roads are getting better, but there’s still work to do. Badly designed intersections, not enough places for pedestrians to walk, and all the extra traffic from tourists can make things risky. Visitors who don’t know their way around can accidentally make things worse. It’s a tough situation, but by improving infrastructure and making sure everyone knows the rules, we can make Orlando’s streets safer for everyone. 

Ways to Avoid Pedestrian Accidents in Orlando 

• Stay Alert: Both pedestrians and drivers should remain vigilant and attentive to their surroundings, especially in high-traffic areas. 
• Use Designated Crosswalks: Always cross streets at designated crosswalks and obey traffic signals. 
• Make Eye Contact: Pedestrians should make eye contact with drivers before crossing to ensure they are seen. 
• Avoid Distractions: Refrain from using phones or other distractions while walking or driving. 
• Be Visible: Wear bright or reflective clothing, especially when walking at night. 

Seeking Legal Assistance After a Pedestrian Accident 

In the unfortunate event of a pedestrian accident, seeking legal guidance is essential for protecting your rights and pursuing compensation for injuries. An experienced pedestrian accident attorney in Orlando can provide invaluable support in navigating the legal process, negotiating with insurance companies, and advocating for fair compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. 

If you or a loved one has been involved in a pedestrian accident in Orlando, don’t hesitate to reach out to a knowledgeable attorney who can help you understand your options and guide you through the next steps toward recovery and justice. The attorneys at Anthony-Smith Law have recovered millions of dollars in compensation for their clients. Our representatives are standing by 24/7 ready to help if we can: 321-900-HELP (321-900-4357) 

Coretta Anthony-Smith

Coretta specializes in handling various insurance disputes and personal injury cases, holding licenses to practice law in all Florida counties and federal courts. Actively engaged in legal committees and community service organizations, Coretta is dedicated to making a positive impact both in and out of the courtroom. Additionally, she was a contributing editor on the Tenth and Eleventh Editions of The Florida Bar’s, Florida Automobile Insurance Law, No-Fault Insurance (2018 and 2019).