707-926-4924Clearwater Pedestrian Accident Attorney
Seeking Compensation for Your Injuries
Florida is one of the deadliest states in the U.S. when it comes to pedestrian accidents. In 2019, the Miami Herald published data from a report called “Dangerous by Design” that ranked the deadliest cities for pedestrians in the nation. The study revealed that nine of the top 20 most dangerous cities for pedestrians were in Florida, including the number one spot—Orlando.
If you or a loved one has been injured or killed in a collision with a vehicle while on foot or on a bicycle, Idrizi Law Group can help. Our Clearwater pedestrian accident attorneys serve clients throughout the Tampa Bay area with personalized attention. We can help you receive the full, fair, and just compensation you deserve to make your best recovery. Contact us at 866-608-4009 to learn more about how we can assist in your case.
Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents
What makes pedestrian accidents so common in Florida? Many of Florida’s roads were built with only motor vehicles in mind, making the infrastructure unsafe for people on foot and bicycles. Older adults, of which Florida has a large population, have a higher risk for pedestrian accidents than others. Another potential cause was cited as the growing popularity of SUVs and pickup trucks, which are much more likely to kill a pedestrian in a crash. Finally, Florida is warm and sunny for much of the year, and locals and visitors alike often take to the streets to enjoy the outdoors.
However, the root cause of most pedestrian accidents is human error. Typically, the driver of a passenger or commercial vehicle is simply not watching out for cyclists and people on foot.
The most common causes of pedestrian accidents include:
- Bad weather
- Drinking and driving
- Drowsy driving
- Drugged driving
- Failure to use turn signals
- Low light conditions
- Poor road design
- Reckless driving
- Running red lights and stop signs
- Distracted driving
Common Pedestrian Accident Injuries
Usually, when a motor vehicle and a person collide, it is the pedestrian who loses. Being hit by a car doesn’t always result in serious injuries, but that doesn’t mean you won’t have to worry about costly medical bills and other expenses should you get hit—even a minor concussion may result in expensive medical testing and time taken off work to recover.
Some of the most common pedestrian accident injuries in Florida are:
- Back injuries
- Bone fractures
- Broken bones
- Internal bleeding
- PTSD
- Scrapes and bruises
- Spinal cord injuries
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
- Wrongful death
What to Do After a Pedestrian Accident
If you have been hit by a motor vehicle while on foot or on a bicycle, there are some things you should do right away in order to protect your health and your insurance claim. Although you may be understandably shaken and in pain, start immediately to collect evidence related to the accident if you are physically able to.
As soon as possible following your accident, do as much of the following as you can:
- Get medical help: Call an ambulance right away if you or someone else has been hurt. If you need to go to a hospital right away, go. Otherwise, stay on the scene long enough to complete the next steps and then head to the doctor for a checkup. Do this even if you aren’t in any pain—the adrenaline and other chemicals activated in your body after a traumatic event like a pedestrian accident can mask the severity of your injuries, and delaying treatment may make the damage even worse.
- Exchange information: Make sure you get the contact and insurance information of the motorist who hit you. Also, speak to any witnesses and write down their contact information as well. However, make sure you don’t apologize for the accident or say anything else that might implicate that you were at fault.
- File a police report: The police will also collect important information from everyone involved in the crash, including witnesses, as well as statements from the victim and the motorist. These records can act as valuable evidence for your claim, so don’t be afraid to get law enforcement on your side.
What Should Pedestrian Accident Victims Avoid Doing After an Accident?
After a pedestrian accident, avoid certain actions that could jeopardize your claim. Do not admit fault or make detailed statements to anyone at the accident scene, especially to insurance adjusters. Avoid posting details or discussing your case on social media, as these statements can be used against you. The Idrizi Law Group advises all clients on how to handle communications post-accident to protect their rights.
What Legal Recourse is Available for Clearwater Pedestrian Accident Victims?
Clearwater pedestrian accident victims often face a complex legal battle when seeking compensation for their injuries. The Idrizi Law Group can guide you through the process of filing a personal injury claim against the party at fault. Whether negotiating with insurance companies or representing you in court, our experienced pedestrian accident attorneys are committed to securing the best possible outcome for your case.
What Compensation Can Pedestrian Accident Victims Expect in Clearwater?
Victims of pedestrian accidents in Clearwater may be entitled to a wide range of compensatory damages. These can include medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and compensation for any long-term disability or lifestyle adjustments necessary due to the accident. The Idrizi Law Group strives to ensure that all of your current and future needs are addressed in the settlement or court-awarded compensation.
How Can Pedestrian Accident Victims Prove Negligence in Clearwater?
Proving negligence is critical in pedestrian accident cases. Our law firm employs a detailed approach, utilizing accident reconstruction, surveillance footage, and witness statements to establish liability clearly. We focus on demonstrating how the motorist’s failure to observe traffic laws or pay attention to their surroundings directly resulted in your injuries.
Can Pedestrian Accident Victims Sue for Punitive Damages in Florida?
In cases where the defendant’s actions are particularly egregious, such as drunk driving or reckless behavior, pedestrian accident victims in Florida may also sue for punitive damages. These are intended to punish the defendant and deter similar conduct in the future. The Idrizi Law Group can assess if your case may warrant such a claim and pursue it vigorously.
How Long Do You Have to File a Pedestrian Accident Claim in Clearwater?
Florida law requires that personal injury claims, including pedestrian accidents, be filed within a specific period. This statute of limitations can affect your right to receive compensation. The Idrizi Law Group can help ensure that all necessary legal actions are taken promptly to preserve your claim.
How Does Idrizi Law Group Handle Complex Pedestrian Accident Cases?
Handling complex pedestrian accident cases requires an in-depth understanding of Florida’s traffic and personal injury laws. The Idrizi Law Group has extensive experience with various scenarios, from hit-and-run accidents to incidents involving commercial vehicles. We use this knowledge to build compelling cases for our clients, ensuring that all legal avenues for compensation are explored.
Are Free Consultations Available for Pedestrian Accident Victims at Idrizi Law Group?
Understanding the specifics of your case is essential, which is why the Idrizi Law Group offers free consultations for pedestrian accident victims. During this consultation, our Clearwater pedestrian accident lawyers will evaluate the details of your accident, discuss potential legal strategies, and provide guidance on the best steps to take next.
Why Choose Idrizi Law Group for Your Pedestrian Accident Case?
Choosing the right Clearwater pedestrian accident lawyer can significantly affect the outcome of your pedestrian accident claim. The Idrizi Law Group brings knowledge, compassion, and a robust track record of successful settlements. Our attorneys understand the traumatic impact of pedestrian accidents and work tirelessly to advocate for your rights and ensure you receive the justice and compensation you deserve. Call us at 866-608-4009 to schedule a free consultation.
