Bradenton, FL — Community Calls for Road Safety After Deadly Hit-and-Run

Bradenton, FL (February 17th, 2026) – A fatal hit-and-run crash in Bradenton has left neighbors demanding safer streets and greater accountability for drivers who flee accident scenes. The incident, which claimed the life of a pedestrian, has reignited concerns about roadway dangers faced by Florida walkers and the legal protections available to victims and their families.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a pedestrian accident in Clearwater or anywhere in Florida, Light & Wyatt Law Group is here to help. Call 727-499-9900for a free consultation with an experienced personal injury attorney.

Pedestrian Killed in Bradenton Hit-and-Run

According to reports, a pedestrian was struck and killed by a vehicle whose driver left the scene without stopping to render aid or report the crash. The collision occurred in a Bradenton neighborhood where residents say pedestrian safety has long been a concern.

Neighbors told FOX 13 that the area’s roadway design and driver behavior have created dangerous conditions for people on foot. Many called for traffic-calming measures, improved crosswalks, and stricter enforcement of speed limits to prevent future tragedies.

Community Demands Action on Pedestrian Safety

Residents near the crash site say the deadly collision reflects systemic problems that have endangered pedestrians for years. Several neighbors reported witnessing reckless driving, speeding, and vehicles failing to yield to people crossing the street.

Community members emphasized that pedestrian deaths are preventable when proper infrastructure and enforcement are in place. They called on local officials to install better lighting, marked crosswalks, warning signs, and speed reduction measures.

These concerns are not unique to Bradenton. Across Florida, including in Clearwater and throughout the Tampa Bay area, pedestrians face significant risks on roadways designed primarily for vehicle traffic. 

Legal Rights of Pedestrians in Florida

Under state law, pedestrians have clearly defined rights and protections. Drivers are required to yield the right-of-way to pedestrians in crosswalks and exercise due care to avoid colliding with any person on foot. When drivers violate these duties, they may be held legally responsible for resulting injuries or deaths.

Hit-and-run crashes add another layer of severity. Florida law requires drivers involved in accidents resulting in injury or death to immediately stop, render aid, and provide information to victims or law enforcement. Leaving the scene of a crash involving injury is a felony offense.

Beyond criminal penalties, drivers who cause pedestrian accidents through negligence may face civil liability. Victims or their families may pursue compensation for medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and in fatal cases, wrongful death damages.

When Drivers Flee, Families Still Have Legal Options

Hit-and-run cases present unique challenges for victims’ families. When a driver cannot be immediately located, families may feel helpless in seeking justice and financial recovery.

However, Florida law provides avenues for compensation even when the at-fault driver is unknown or uninsured. Uninsured motorist (UM) coverage, which many Florida drivers carry as part of their auto insurance policies, may cover pedestrian accidents caused by hit-and-run drivers.

If the victim was a household member of someone with UM coverage, or if the victim’s own policy includes UM protection, claims may be filed against that insurance. These claims can provide critical financial support for funeral expenses, medical bills incurred before death, and compensation for the family’s loss.

Additionally, if the at-fault driver is later identified, civil claims can be pursued directly against that individual and their insurance coverage. An experienced pedestrian accident attorney can investigate all available sources of recovery and build a comprehensive case on behalf of the victim’s family.

Holding Negligent Drivers Accountable

Florida’s comparative negligence system allows injury victims to recover damages even if they bear some responsibility for an accident, though their compensation may be reduced proportionally. In pedestrian cases, factors such as crossing outside a crosswalk or walking at night without reflective clothing are sometimes raised by defendants.

However, drivers bear the primary responsibility to watch for and avoid pedestrians. Speeding, distracted driving, driving under the influence, and failing to yield are common forms of driver negligence in pedestrian crashes. When these behaviors result in injury or death, drivers should be held accountable through both the criminal justice system and civil litigation.

For families grieving the loss of a loved one, legal action serves multiple purposes. It provides financial resources to cover expenses and lost support, honors the victim’s memory by demanding accountability, and may prevent future tragedies by highlighting dangerous driver behavior and roadway conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I file a claim if the hit-and-run driver is never found?

Yes. You may be able to file a claim under uninsured motorist coverage if you or a household member carries this protection. An attorney can review available insurance policies and identify all potential sources of compensation for your family.

How long do I have to file a wrongful death claim in Florida?

Florida’s wrongful death statute of limitations is generally two years from the date of death. However, it’s important to consult with a wrongful death attorney as soon as possible to ensure evidence is preserved, and your claim is properly prepared.

What compensation can families recover in a pedestrian wrongful death case?

Families may recover compensation for funeral and burial expenses, medical bills from treatment before death, lost financial support the deceased would have provided, loss of companionship and guidance, and the pain and suffering experienced by both the victim and surviving family members. An experienced attorney can evaluate the full value of your claim based on your specific circumstances.

Why Clearwater Families Trust Light & Wyatt Law Group

Pedestrian accident cases require thorough investigation, knowledge of Florida traffic laws, and experience negotiating with insurance companies that often minimize claims. Light & Wyatt Law Group has represented countless personal injury victims throughout Florida, including families affected by hit-and-run crashes in Clearwater and surrounding communities.

Our attorneys understand the impact these incidents have on families and approach each case with compassion and determination. We investigate every detail, consult with accident reconstruction experts when needed, and fight to maximize compensation for our clients. If your family has been affected by a pedestrian accident, you don’t have to face the legal process alone. Contact Light & Wyatt Law Group at 727-499-9900 for a free consultation.

Jim Magazine

James (Jim) Magazine is a Florida Board Certified Civil Trial lawyer who has spent his career helping injured victims. Jim is licensed to practice law in the State of Florida since 1990 and is also admitted to practice at the Appellate level and admitted to the United States Supreme Court.

Years of Experience: More than 30 years
Florida Registration Status: Active
Bar Admissions:
Clearwater Bar Association
West Pasco Bar Association