Many criminal charges after an accident are associated with violations of Florida pedestrian laws.
Just as Florida drivers have specific laws to follow when they use roadways, so do pedestrians. Florida pedestrian laws assign some responsibility to people near roadways who are not in or on a vehicle. If you are found in violation of these laws and are involved in a pedestrian stop in Florida, you may need a Miami criminal defense attorney to review your case.
The Florida statutes consider “any person afoot” to be a pedestrian.
This includes people:
• in wheelchairs;
• on skates;
• on skateboards; and
• on foot-powered scooters.
Bicyclists are included in most pedestrian laws but also have additional laws to follow regarding non-bicycle pedestrians. Pedestrian laws cover travel along streets and highways, roadway crossings and at traffic signals.
The violation of Florida pedestrian laws can greatly impact criminal charges assigned to drivers and pedestrians alike. A pedestrian stop in Florida can be the result of an accident or a simple traffic violation. The violation of Florida pedestrian laws may change the penalties assigned, depending on the circumstances.
Dealing With a Pedestrian Stop in Florida for Travel along a Road
Florida pedestrian laws require that pedestrians use sidewalks whenever they are provided unless circumstances such as construction prevent their use. Neglecting to follow this law may result in a pedestrian stop in Florida for walking upon pavement meant for vehicular traffic. While a pedestrian stop in Florida normally does not warrant criminal charges, it is often involved with other incidents for which you may need help from a Miami criminal defense lawyer.
When sidewalks are not provided, pedestrians must walk on the shoulder on the left side of the roadway so they are aware of oncoming traffic. Failure to do so can lead to a pedestrian stop in Florida and additional penalties. Standing in the roadway is also illegal and may result in a pedestrian stop in Florida if you solicit a ride, employment or business from vehicles.
Florida Pedestrian Laws for Crossing Roadways
Florida pedestrian laws require that pedestrians make use of crosswalks and traffic control signals when crossing roadways. When you ignore signals and cross in undesignated areas, you may be subject to a pedestrian stop in Florida.
Violations of Florida pedestrian laws can include failure to yield to traffic when crossing an intersection at any point other than a crosswalk, crossing a roadway where a pedestrian tunnel or overhead crossing has been provided and crossing between adjacent signaled intersections.
Drivers are expected to yield to pedestrians but you may be subject to a pedestrian stop in Florida if your actions do not allow drivers time enough to yield. Dangerous conduct such as abruptly running out into roadways, even when in marked crosswalks, can result in a pedestrian stop in Florida and potential criminal charges for causing an accident.
