Miami Pedestrian Injury Lawyer – Crosswalk & Sidewalk Accident Claims

If you or a loved one were struck by a vehicle while walking in Miami, Florida, Rafaeli Law PLLC is here to help. As trusted pedestrian injury lawyers, we understand the devastating consequences of a pedestrian accident, and we fight relentlessly for justice on your behalf.

According to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, more than 9,000 pedestrian crashes occurred across the state in 2023, resulting in over 750 fatalities. Miami-Dade County consistently ranks among the most dangerous regions for pedestrians in Florida, with hundreds of pedestrian-related injuries and deaths reported each year (FLHSMV Crash Dashboard).

Our Miami pedestrian accident attorneys offer personalized, experienced, and aggressive legal representation for injured victims. Whether you were hit in a crosswalk, sidewalk, parking lot, or intersection, we’ll investigate, protect your rights, and pursue the compensation you deserve.

To learn more about our practice, visit our About page or meet our attorneys dedicated to helping injured pedestrians.

When Should You Contact a Miami Pedestrian Accident Lawyer?

You should contact a lawyer immediately after receiving medical treatment following a pedestrian accident. Time is critical in preserving evidence, interviewing witnesses, and filing a claim within the state’s statute of limitations.

Florida’s recent legal changes have reduced the window for filing personal injury lawsuits to 2 years from the date of the accident. Don’t wait. Missing this deadline could prevent you from recovering compensation, regardless of how strong your case may be.

Our team at Rafaeli Law PLLC provides free consultations and contingency-based representation, meaning we only get paid if you win. We will evaluate your case, explain your options, and take immediate action to preserve your rights.

Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents in Miami

Pedestrian accidents are rarely “accidents”, they often result from negligence or reckless behavior by drivers or city infrastructure. Common causes include:

  • Distracted Driving: Texting, eating, adjusting GPS, or using in-car infotainment systems diverts attention from the road. In dense traffic areas like Brickell or Downtown Miami, a momentary lapse can lead to tragedy. Studies suggest distracted driving is a factor in 1 out of every 4 crashes.
  • Speeding: Driving above posted limits gives motorists less time to react, especially in zones with high foot traffic. Studies show that pedestrians hit at 40 mph are 85% more likely to be killed than at 20 mph. Speeding remains one of the leading contributors to fatal pedestrian incidents.
  • Failure to Yield: Many drivers fail to yield at crosswalks, even when pedestrians have the right of way. Florida law mandates strict yielding rules to protect vulnerable road users, especially in school zones and marked intersections.
  • Left-Hand Turns: These are high-risk maneuvers in intersections where drivers focus on oncoming traffic rather than people crossing. Many pedestrian crashes occur when turning left without noticing a person crossing due to blind spots or rushing.
  • Poor Lighting or Signage: Areas with insufficient street lighting or obscured signage—especially in residential zones like Little Havana or Allapattah, can drastically reduce visibility and lead to avoidable accidents. Proper urban planning is a key factor in reducing nighttime collisions.

In Miami, the combination of dense tourism, nightlife, and urban sprawl makes pedestrian accidents more common. Streets like Biscayne Boulevard, SW 8th Street, and NE 79th Street are among the most dangerous for walkers, according to Miami-Dade pedestrian crash data.

Explore our broader practice areas for other services we offer.

What Evidence Is Needed in a Miami Pedestrian Accident Claim?

Strong evidence helps prove liability and supports your compensation claim. After a pedestrian injury, our legal team helps gather:

  • Police Reports: These official records document the crash scene, driver behavior, and officer observations. They’re crucial for assigning fault and serve as a foundational element for building your case.
  • Medical Records: These show the severity of injuries and are essential to link them directly to the crash. They also establish the need for future care and help estimate long-term rehabilitation costs.
  • Surveillance Footage: Many Miami streets and businesses have security cameras. Footage from intersections, traffic lights, or storefronts can help prove what happened, offering an unbiased visual record.
  • Eyewitness Statements: Neutral bystanders can provide key insights about how the accident occurred and whether the driver was speeding, distracted, or failed to yield. These testimonies often become pivotal in settlement talks or court.
  • Crash Scene Photos: These visuals highlight contributing factors like poor lighting, lack of signage, or obstructed views. Photos help illustrate the conditions at the time of the accident and offer support for negligence claims.
  • Driver’s Information and Records: We investigate whether the motorist had prior infractions or DUI arrests, which could indicate a pattern of unsafe driving. Accessing cellphone records or prior traffic violations can further strengthen your claim.

This comprehensive evidence strategy gives your case strength in both negotiations and trial settings.

Pedestrian Accident Lawyer Services Overview

Service CategoryDescriptionWhy It Matters
Initial Legal ConsultationFree case evaluations with a pedestrian accident lawyer to review your case facts, injuries, and legal options.Helps victims understand if they have a valid claim and what steps to take next.
Crash Scene InvestigationCollection of evidence from the scene, including traffic camera footage, police reports, and witness statements.Crucial for proving driver negligence or municipal liability.
Medical Documentation & SupportCoordination with doctors and specialists to document injuries and estimate future care needs.Ensures accurate damage calculations for medical bills and rehabilitation.
Insurance NegotiationHandling all communication and negotiations with the at-fault driver’s insurance carrier.Protects victims from lowball settlement offers or bad-faith denials.
Filing Personal Injury LawsuitsDrafting and filing lawsuits under Florida’s 2-year statute of limitations for pedestrian accidents.Preserves the right to seek compensation through the court system.
Wrongful Death ClaimsRepresentation for families of pedestrians killed by negligent drivers in Miami.Seeks justice and financial support for surviving loved ones.
PIP & UM/UIM Claims AssistanceFiling Personal Injury Protection (PIP) and uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) claims under Florida law.Helps maximize coverage, especially when the driver is underinsured or uninsured.
Trial AdvocacyAggressive courtroom representation if a fair settlement cannot be reached.Demonstrates a readiness to fight all the way for full compensation.
Bilingual Legal ServicesLegal services available in both English and Spanish.Supports Miami’s diverse population, ensuring clear communication with all clients.
Local Knowledge of Dangerous AreasFamiliarity with pedestrian hotspots like Brickell, Wynwood, and Biscayne Blvd.Enhances case strategy and shows understanding of location-specific pedestrian risks.

Choosing the right Miami pedestrian injury attorney can make the difference between a dismissed claim and a life-changing settlement. Here’s why injured clients trust Rafaeli Law PLLC:

  • Decades of Experience: Our team has handled hundreds of pedestrian and crosswalk injury cases across Miami-Dade, delivering millions in verdicts and settlements.
  • Local Legal Insight: We understand the unique legal environment of Miami courts and traffic conditions, giving your case a strategic advantage.
  • Full-Service Support: From evidence gathering and insurance negotiation to medical lien reduction, we handle every step of your legal journey.
  • Contingency Fee Representation: You pay nothing unless we win. Our interests are aligned with yours from day one.
  • Direct Attorney Access: You’ll always speak to a lawyer, not just a case manager. We pride ourselves on client communication and responsiveness.

Explore some of our case results and testimonials to see how we’ve helped injury victims like you.

Ready to Take the First Step? Let Rafaeli Law PLLC Fight for You

Pedestrian accidents can leave lasting physical, emotional, and financial scars. You deserve compassionate legal support and aggressive representation to secure justice. Rafaeli Law PLLC brings deep knowledge of Miami’s legal landscape and a proven record of success in personal injury claims.

We are ready to listen, investigate, and pursue maximum compensation for your injuries. Contact us now for a free consultation and get the experienced advocacy you need to rebuild your life.

Call 954-365-5639 or schedule your consultation online, we’re available 24/7 to help you move forward.

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FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What should I do immediately after a pedestrian accident in Miami?

Seek medical attention, call the police, gather witness information, and photograph the scene if possible. Then contact a local pedestrian injury attorney.

2. Who is liable in a pedestrian accident in Florida?

Usually, the driver, but liability can also fall on government entities for unsafe roads or lack of signage. Florida follows a comparative negligence rule.

3. How much is a pedestrian injury case worth?

Settlements vary based on injury severity, liability, and insurance coverage. Claims can range from thousands to million,s depending on damages and losses.

4. Can I still recover compensation if I was partially at fault?

Yes. Florida’s modified comparative fault rule lets you recover compensation as long as you're less than 50% responsible.

5. How long does a pedestrian accident case take?

Some resolve in a few months; others take a year or more, depending on evidence, negotiations, or trial.

6. Does car insurance cover pedestrian injuries?

Yes. In Florida, the driver’s PIP coverage may cover initial medical bills, but additional compensation may require a personal injury lawsuit.

7. What are common pedestrian accident injuries?

Traumatic brain injury, broken bones, spinal damage, road rash, internal injuries, and disfigurement are common. Many require extensive rehab.

8. How can Rafaeli Law help my family after a wrongful death?

We can file a wrongful death claim, investigate fault, and pursue full compensation for funeral costs, lost companionship, and emotional suffering.

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If you are facing a personal injury or insurance dispute, Rafaeli Law PLLC is here to help. We are dedicated to protecting your rights and helping you secure the compensation you deserve.