Reese Witherspoon Learns Pedestrian Laws After Hit While Jogging
Reese Witherspoon was recently involved in an accident when she was hit by a vehicle while jogging in Santa Monica. Although Ms. Witherspoon was in an unmarked crosswalk, the driver is still liable for the injuries. It is important as both a driver and pedestrian to be aware of similar laws in Florida.
January 11, 2012
Movie actress Reese Witherspoon suffered minor injuries after she was struck by a vehicle during her afternoon run in Santa Monica. The Oscar-winning actress was hit while crossing an intersection. The driver, an 84 year old woman, was issued a citation for failure to yield to a pedestrian in a crosswalk.The actress received minor injuries and after a brief visit to the hospital is recovering in her home. Although Ms. Witherspoon was jogging in an unmarked crosswalk, the driver is still liable for the injuries caused. Such laws are not unusual and are found here in Florida as well.
Similar Laws in Florida
In Florida, a crosswalk is defined as any part of a roadway at an intersection used for pedestrian crossing. Pedestrians using this area have the right of way, whether the crosswalk is marked or unmarked.
Although state law provides a stipulation making it illegal to run into the path of a vehicle when it is impossible for the driver to yield, the law strongly favors pedestrians. Pedestrians are even allowed to cross mid-block, as long as they yield the right of way to drivers.
How to Avoid Penalties and Accidents
Most pedestrian-vehicle accidents occur when pedestrians attempt to cross outside of designated crosswalks, often mid-block. This is followed closely by failure to yield in a crosswalk, often while turning -- similar to what happened to Ms. Witherspoon.
Check for pedestrians in cross walks, mid-block and when backing your vehicle out of a parking space to avoid these types of accidents. Taking these steps will greatly reduce your risk of an accident.
Although pedestrians have the right of way at designated crosswalks, it is important to be mindful. Taking a moment to briefly glance and ensure oncoming or turning traffic is stopping will reduce your risk of injury. Even with these considerations, accidents happen. If you were involved in an accident it is important to discuss your legal rights and remedies with an experienced accident attorney.
Article provided by Winters & Yonker P.A.
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