Pedestrian Killed in Tragic Crash on U.S. 441 in Columbia County

A devastating crash in Columbia County left one man dead Saturday evening after being struck by a vehicle along U.S. 441 near Old Haltiwanger Road, according to the Florida Highway Patrol.

Troopers say the crash occurred around 7:30 p.m. when a southbound vehicle driven by a 74-year-old woman from Fort White struck a 53-year-old man from Lake City who was walking along or attempting to cross the highway. The driver and her passenger were not injured.

The pedestrian was pronounced dead at the scene. Authorities have not yet released his name, and the investigation into what led to the collision remains ongoing.

Tragically, Florida consistently ranks among the most dangerous states for pedestrians. According to recent state data, nearly 800 pedestrians are killed each year on Florida roadways. Many of these deaths occur in low-visibility conditions or on high-speed roads like U.S. 441, where pedestrians face increased risk due to limited lighting and lack of sidewalks.

Under Florida Statute §316.130, both drivers and pedestrians have specific duties to avoid collisions:

• Drivers must exercise due care to avoid hitting pedestrians and must yield when a person is crossing the roadway within a crosswalk.
• Pedestrians, meanwhile, are required to use crosswalks when available and avoid stepping suddenly into the path of oncoming vehicles.

Even when a pedestrian is outside a marked crosswalk, drivers still have a legal duty to maintain a proper lookout and operate their vehicles safely under the conditions.

Determining Fault in a Pedestrian Accident

Determining liability in a pedestrian fatality often requires a thorough investigation that considers:

• Lighting and visibility at the time of the crash
• Speed and attentiveness of the driver
• Whether crosswalks or signals were nearby
• Road and weather conditions
• Possible impairment or distraction

Accident reconstruction experts and forensic specialists often play a key role in identifying what went wrong — and whether negligence contributed to the tragedy.

Legal Options for Families After a Fatal Pedestrian Accident

Under the Florida Wrongful Death Act (§§768.16–768.26), the surviving family of a pedestrian killed due to another person’s negligence may pursue compensation for:

• Funeral and burial expenses
• Emotional pain and suffering
• Loss of companionship or parental guidance
• Lost wages and future earning potential of the deceased

While no legal action can undo such a painful loss, pursuing justice can help families find closure and financial security during an incredibly difficult time.

At Flanagan & Bodenheimer Injury and Wrongful Death Law Firm, we have represented families across Florida in fatal pedestrian and motor vehicle accident cases. Our attorneys work closely with investigators and experts to uncover the truth, identify liable parties, and hold negligent drivers accountable.

We intentionally maintain a small caseload so every client receives the individual attention and compassion they deserve.

If you have lost a loved one in a pedestrian accident in Lake City, Columbia County, or anywhere in Florida, our legal team is here to help. We handle all cases on a contingency-fee basis — meaning you pay nothing unless we win your case.

📞 Call 305-638-4143 or contact us online for a free consultation in English or Spanish.