If you were injured by a motor vehicle while out for a run or taking a walk, you need to understand the type of compensation you can receive for damages. Florida is one of the most dangerous states for pedestrian accidents, and is it not uncommon for walkers and runners to be involved in an accident due to the negligence of a driver. Accidents with pedestrians

Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents

Nearly 6,000 pedestrians were killed in traffic crashes in 2017, and approximately 137,000 were treated in Emergency rooms for non-fatal injuries. There are a variety of reasons a pedestrian accident can occur, and they usually involve a negligent driver:

  • Distracted driving
  • Driving while intoxicated
  • Failing to stop completely at a stop sign
  • Not yielding in a crosswalk
  • Speeding and being unable to stop
  • Failing to maintain control of the vehicle
  • Using an electronic device while driving

Types of Pedestrian Injuries

Pedestrian accident injuries can be severe and sometimes fatal. In addition to broken bones and lacerations, the following injuries can occur after being hit by a motor vehicle:

  • Spinal cord injuries
  • Brain injuries
  • Loss of limbs
  • Paralysis
  • Permanent disability
  • Disfigurement

What to Do After an Accident

There are several things to do if you are involved in a pedestrian accident, including seeking medical attention. If you remain on the scene and are able, you should also:

  • Call the police, and obtain a copy of the police report.
  • Photograph the car and license plate of the at-fault vehicle.
  • Get names and information from any witnesses.
  • Get the driver’s personal contact and insurance information.
  • Write down any details from the scene while they are easy to remember. Take photos of the scene and of your injuries. Document what you can recall about the circumstances surrounding the accident.
  • Contact a Florida personal injury lawyer for help.

Pedestrian Accident Compensation

The driver of the car involved in a pedestrian accident is typically at fault. However, if the pedestrian failed to follow traffic rules and is injured due to their own negligence, the driver will not be held liable. Under Florida law, you have four years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury case. For a wrongful death case, it is two years from the time of the accident. If your accident did not result in serious injuries, your personal injury protection (PIP) insurance policy may cover your damages.

If your injuries are serious and you have missed work or are unable to go back to work, the driver may be held liable, and you could receive compensation for the following:

  • Medical expenses
  • Pain and suffering
  • Lost wages
  • Loss of future earnings
  • Property damage
  • Future medical treatment

The amount of compensation you are entitled to receive depends on factors such as:

  • The severity of your injuries
  • The time it takes to recover from your injuries
  • The cost of medical treatment
  • The impact the accident has on your quality of life

Contact a Florida Attorney

If you are involved in a pedestrian accident in Florida and have questions, consult a car accident lawyer for answers. When you hire an attorney, they will investigate your accident, gather evidence for your case, and help you recover the damages you deserve.

As a former State Trooper, Attorney Coy Browning has experience in investigating pedestrian accidents and understands what is needed to win your case. If you have been in a pedestrian accident, contact Browning Law Firm. There are never any legal fees unless you receive compensation. To set up a free, no obligation consultation, fill out our convenient online contact form, or call our office today.