Walking in Palm Beach County should be safe, whether you are strolling along A1A, crossing busy intersections on Okeechobee Boulevard, or enjoying a quiet neighborhood. Unfortunately, pedestrian accidents happen far too often in South Florida. When a driver fails to yield, is distracted, or ignores traffic signals, pedestrians bear the brunt of the impact. At Altman Law Firm, we understand how devastating these collisions can be. Led by Jeffrey S. Altman, our team is dedicated to helping injured pedestrians navigate the complex aftermath of an accident, from dealing with insurance companies to understanding their legal rights under Florida law.
With a mix of year-round residents, seasonal visitors, and heavy traffic flow, Palm Beach County sees a wide variety of pedestrian incidents. Many accidents occur at crosswalks, parking lots, and major thoroughfares like US-1. Common factors include distracted driving, speeding, failure to yield the right of way, and driving under the influence. When a driver acts negligently, they can be held liable for the harm they cause. We thoroughly investigate the circumstances of your accident, gathering evidence such as traffic camera footage, witness statements, and police reports to build a strong foundation for your claim.
Florida operates under a modified comparative negligence system. This means that even if you were partially at fault for the accident—perhaps by crossing outside of a designated crosswalk—you may still be able to recover compensation, provided you are not found to be more than fifty percent responsible. The compensation you receive would simply be reduced by your percentage of fault. Insurance companies often try to shift the blame onto the pedestrian to minimize their financial exposure. Having legal representation can help ensure that fault is evaluated fairly and that your rights are protected throughout the claims process.
Victims of pedestrian accidents often face mounting medical bills, lost wages, and significant physical and emotional pain. Through a personal injury claim, you can seek compensation for these damages. However, it is crucial to act within the legal time limits. Florida law imposes a strict statute of limitations on personal injury cases, meaning you have a limited window of time to file a lawsuit. If you miss this deadline, you may lose your right to pursue compensation entirely. Reaching out to a legal professional promptly allows for timely investigation and helps preserve vital evidence before it disappears.
First and foremost, seek medical attention for your injuries, even if they seem minor at first. Call law enforcement to the scene so a formal crash report can be filed. If you are able, document the scene by taking photos of the vehicle, the crosswalk, and your injuries. Finally, gather contact information from the driver and any witnesses, and avoid discussing fault with the driver's insurance company before consulting an attorney.
Yes, you may still have options. In Florida, your own uninsured motorist coverage or personal injury protection (PIP) policy might provide compensation if the at-fault driver cannot be identified. Law enforcement will investigate the hit-and-run, and our team can help you explore all available insurance avenues to seek the recovery you need.
Every case is unique, and the timeline depends on various factors, including the severity of your injuries, the clarity of fault, and the willingness of the insurance company to negotiate fairly. Some cases resolve in a matter of months through a settlement, while others may take longer if litigation and a trial are necessary to pursue appropriate compensation.
Absolutely. While Altman Law Firm is based in Miami, Jeffrey S. Altman and our legal team represent injured pedestrians and other personal injury victims throughout Palm Beach County and across the entire state of Florida.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a pedestrian accident, contact Altman Law Firm today to discuss your situation and explore your legal options. Call (305) 373-3730.