Pedestrians are the most vulnerable people on our roads, sidewalks, and parking lots. When cars and other motor vehicles collide with pedestrians, a critical injury is almost certain. Our Broward County pedestrian accident lawyer has fought on behalf of the wrongfully injured in Florida for years, and he is ready to fight for you as well. Continue reading and reach out to the Finizio Law Group to learn more about pedestrian accidents and how we can help if you were hurt in one.
How Do Most Pedestrian Accidents Happen?
Pedestrian accidents occur for a variety of reasons, but typically, they are entirely avoidable. At times, they can occur when pedestrians fail to observe the rules of the road, such as by running out into the street in disregard of what traffic lights say or crossing at points where crosswalks aren’t. However, in most cases, pedestrian accidents happen when drivers are negligent and strike pedestrians as a result. Some of the most common types of negligence that we see lead to these accidents are as follows:
- Dimly-lit roads
- Driving while distracted
- Driving while under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- Speeding
- Running red lights or stop signs
- Driving while tired
While collisions between pedestrians and vehicles account for most of these accidents, pedestrians may also suffer injuries due to unsafe conditions on premises, like broken sidewalks or debris left on walkways. In these instances, the property owner would likely face liability for the hazardous conditions.
What Injuries Can I Suffer?
Unfortunately, accidents for pedestrians can be serious. Unlike collisions between cars, when a pedestrian is struck by a vehicle, there is no frame to absorb the impact, meaning these injuries should not be taken lightly. Some of the most common injuries include:
- Bone fractures
- Neck and spinal cord damage
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Internal organ damage
- Severe lacerations
- Road rash
Due to the severity of these injuries, seeking immediate medical attention following an accident is critical. Unfortunately, accidents between pedestrians and vehicles have resulted in over 700 fatalities in 2022.
Does It Matter If I am Partly at Fault?
While liability for most accidents will occur due to driver negligence, in the event that you are partially liable, it can impact the outcome of your claim. Florida adheres to a modified comparative negligence system. This means that if you are found 51% or more at fault for the accident and your subsequent injuries, you will be barred from recovering compensation.
In the event your percentage of fault is less than 51%, the compensation you recover will be reduced by the percentage for which you contributed to the accident. For example, if you are awarded $100,000 in damages, but you are found to be 25% at fault, your compensation would be reduced to $75,000.
What Do I Have to Prove to Win a Personal Injury Claim?
If you are a pedestrian who was struck by a car and you were seriously injured, you will have to prove that you were injured as a direct result of the driver’s negligence. As such, one of the most important things you can do following an accident is to call 911. This ensures that a police report is filed, while allowing you to seek emergency medical treatment at the scene of the accident. You should also, if you are physically able to, take pictures of the accident scene and request surveillance footage from nearby homes or businesses.
How Long Can I Wait to Sue Someone for an Injury in Florida?
Under Florida Law, you will have two years from the date on which your accident occurred to file a claim. This is known as the statute of limitations. However, if your accident happened before March 24, 2023, you may be able to file under the previous four-year statute of limitations, so connecting with an attorney as soon as possible is critical.
Contact Our Experienced Broward County Firm
If you or a loved one was struck by a vehicle in or around Broward County, it’s in your best interest to contact the Finizio Law Group. Our firm has decades of combined experience representing clients from all walks of life, and we are here to put those years of experience to work for you as well. Contact us today to schedule your initial consultation with our team and to learn more about our services and how we can assist you.
