Given its pleasant climate and beautiful landscapes, Clearwater residents and visitors spend a lot of time walking. As a pedestrian, you should be free to explore and enjoy the scenic beauty without fear. Yet, despite the idyllic setting, pedestrian accidents remain a troubling issue. If you’ve suffered injuries in an accident, you may have the right to pursue compensation. Speaking with an experienced Clearwater pedestrian accident lawyer is essential to learn more about your rights.
At James Horne Law PA, we are deeply committed to defending the rights and well-being of individuals impacted by these accidents. If you’re searching online for a ‘pedestrian accident attorney near me,’ contact our office to schedule a consultation.
Causes of Pedestrian Accidents in Clearwater
Multiple factors contribute to pedestrian accidents in Clearwater. The infrastructure of many Florida roads, designed primarily for motor vehicles, often lacks the necessary safety measures for pedestrians and cyclists. The increasing popularity of larger vehicles, such as SUVs and pickup trucks, also poses a greater risk to pedestrians due to their potential to cause more severe injuries in an accident. Moreover, Florida’s favorable weather encourages more people to be outdoors, increasing the likelihood of pedestrian encounters with vehicles.
However, at the core of most pedestrian accidents is human error. Drivers who fail to remain vigilant for pedestrians and cyclists create hazardous conditions on the road. Key factors leading to these accidents include:
- Impaired driving due to alcohol or drugs,
- Drowsy driving,
- Failure to signal turns,
- Poor lighting,
- Inadequately designed roads,
- Reckless or aggressive driving behaviors,
- Ignoring traffic signals and stop signs,
- Failure to follow other traffic laws and regulations,
- Excessive speed, and
- Adverse weather conditions.
Understanding these common causes can help you avoid accidents whenever possible.
Common Injuries in Pedestrian Accidents
Pedestrian accidents often result in serious injuries, primarily because pedestrians have no protection against the impact of a vehicle. Common injuries sustained in pedestrian accidents include:
- Neck and back injuries, including whiplash;
- Fractures and broken bones;
- Head injuries, including concussions and traumatic brain injuries (TBI);
- Internal bleeding and organ damage;
- Psychological trauma, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD);
- Severe abrasions and lacerations;
- Spinal cord injuries, potentially leading to paralysis; and
- Wrongful death.
The severity of your injuries can impact your case value. Legal representation is crucial in securing compensation to cover these costs and support the victim’s recovery process.
What to Do After a Pedestrian Accident
You should prioritize your health and safety. Seek medical attention, even if your injuries seem minor. Calling 911 to have police and medical responders dispatched is crucial. If your injuries aren’t too severe, try to document the scene. Take photos of the vehicle, any damage, skid marks, and other important details.
You do not want to leave the scene without exchanging information with the driver who hit you. Collect contact and insurance information from the involved motorist and any witnesses. Be sure to get the police report number to request a copy later.
Next, you should speak with a pedestrian accident lawyer in Clearwater to discuss your legal rights. It is best to talk with an attorney before speaking with the driver’s insurance company. Early legal advice can protect your rights and maximize your potential compensation. Once a lawyer represents you, the driver’s insurance company cannot speak with you.
At James Horne Law PA, our approach to pedestrian accident claims is thorough and compassionate. We understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll these accidents take on victims and their families. Our legal team works tirelessly to investigate each case, gathering evidence and consulting with experts to build a strong foundation for your claim.
Types of Compensation in a Pedestrian Accident
You could be entitled to compensation that addresses your entire range of needs, from immediate medical expenses to long-term rehabilitation, lost wages, and adjustments for quality of life changes. Noneconomic damages, such as pain and suffering, are also crucial components, reflecting the broader impact of the accident on your life. Your attorney will let you know what types of compensation you’re entitled to and what your case is potentially worth.
Determining Fault and Fighting for Your Rights
Because you’re a pedestrian, you might assume the driver is automatically at fault. However, you must prove liability before you’ll receive any money. The driver’s insurance company will thoroughly investigate, including determining who is at fault. Trying to shift blame to the pedestrian is more common than you might think. Fortunately, our team is skilled in countering such defenses, utilizing evidence from eyewitness accounts, surveillance footage, and expert testimony to support your case.
Why Choose James Horne Law PA?
Choosing the right attorney can significantly affect the outcome of your pedestrian accident claim. You need a Clearwater pedestrian accident attorney with the skills, experience, and knowledge to represent you. James Horne Law PA brings:
- A deep understanding of Florida’s pedestrian accident laws;
- A compassionate, client-focused approach;
- A proven track record of securing favorable settlements and verdicts;
- The resources to investigate and litigate complex cases; and
- A commitment to achieving the best possible outcome for you.
Navigating a pedestrian accident claim is challenging, especially when facing insurance companies prepared to minimize their payouts. Our Clearwater pedestrian accident lawyers possess the expertise and determination to advocate on your behalf, ensuring your voice is heard, and your rights are protected.
If you or a loved one has suffered injuries in a pedestrian accident, speak with a Clearwater pedestrian accident lawyer at James Horne Law PA. Together, we can fight for the compensation you deserve and work towards making our communities safer for everyone.