When it comes to pedestrian safety, abiding by state laws and regulations is imperative to avoid dangerous circumstances and accidents. Over 7,000 pedestrians were fatally injured as a result of motor vehicle accidents in 2020, and over 100,000 required emergency care for non-fatal injuries. “Jaywalking,” a pedestrian behavior that may increase the chances of an accident with a motor vehicle, is not explicitly listed in Florida statutes. Still, certain behaviors that constitute a jaywalking practice are illegal.
Attorney Frank P. Marsalisi of Marsalisi Law is well-versed in the complexities of pedestrian accident claims and has recovered millions on behalf of countless clients in successful settlements and verdicts. We provide honest and high-quality legal representation, handling all aspects of your claim so you may secure the monetary compensation you deserve.
What is Jaywalking?
Florida, ranking second in overall pedestrian fatality, does not have specific laws pertaining to jaywalking because it is not a legal term. The general definition of jaywalking refers to a pedestrian unlawfully, or without regard for approaching traffic, crossing a street where there are no marked crosswalks.
Although there are no specific laws against the term “jaywalking,” certain actions that may constitute jaywalking are illegal in Florida. Even though jaywalking is not illegal in Florida, it does not mean it is safe to do so. Although driving decreased in 2020, pedestrian fatality increased by 4.7%.Pedestrians who dart out in front of moving vehicles are more likely to be harmed in accidents, particularly when drivers have little time to react.
Is Jaywalking Illegal in Florida?
No laws or statutes in Florida mention “jaywalking,” so it can be difficult to discern whether it is outright illegal in all cases. However, there are particular behaviors that are not considered legal in the state.
For instance, crossing the street as a pedestrian while a red light is showing is unlawful. Pedestrians generally do not have the right of way in the road, especially if there is not a crosswalk at an intersection.
Laws Pertaining to Jaywalking in Florida
Although there are no statutes referring to jaywalking in Florida, there are statutes that pertain to jaywalking behaviors. Pedestrians do not possess the right of way all of the time. Florida Statute 316.130 states that pedestrians have the right of way at crosswalks and when there is a “walk” indication at a stop sign.
However, Florida law allows pedestrians to cross the road at a right angle, even when there is no marked crosswalk, but they may have to heed the right of way to approaching vehicles.
The following are illegal jaywalking behaviors mentioned in Florida statute 316.130:
- It is illegal to walk along the road paved for vehicles when there is a sidewalk available;
- It is illegal to cross while facing a red light;
- It is illegal to leave a curb or safety space to walk or run into the path of a vehicle closely approaching that it is impossible for the driver to yield;
To understand the specific pedestrian laws pertaining to jaywalking in Florida, speak with an experienced pedestrian accident lawyer at Marsalisi Law for unique legal guidance regarding your claim. If you have followed Florida pedestrian laws and have been in an accident caused by driver negligence, you may be eligible to pursue compensatory damages with the help of a skilled lawyer. We fight for the economic and non-economic losses you have suffered.
Speak with an Experienced Florida Pedestrian Accident Lawyer at Marsalisi Law
Pedestrians in Florida must abide by laws and regulations governing their safety when sharing the road with others. Although the term “jaywalking” is not explicitly stated in Florida law, there are behaviors that may be illegal due to pedestrians not always possessing the right of way. If you have been harmed due to driver negligence while abiding by Florida pedestrian laws, Attorney Frank P. Marsalisi of Marsalisi Law may help you pursue a pedestrian accident claim for the losses you have suffered.
At Marsalisi Law, we hold negligent drivers accountable for negligence in pedestrian accidents. Attorney Frank P. Marsalisi has recovered millions in settlements and verdicts for countless victims, handling all aspects of their claim so they may focus on recovery. We fight for the maximum, complete monetary compensation you deserve. We offer complimentary consultations in English and Spanish; call us today at (727) 800-5052, or fill out our contact form.
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