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Do you need a pedestrian hit by car attorney in Tampa, FL?
Unfortunately, pedestrian accidents are common in Tampa, especially at places where motor vehicles must share the road with pedestrians.
A skilled Tampa attorney like Hysenlika Law Firm will aggressively fight to protect your rights. They can file a claim on your behalf with the insurance company or litigate in court your third-party case.
What Are the Most Common Pedestrian Accidents in Tampa?
Pedestrian accidents around Tampa in Florida are often tragic results of driver negligence.
The following factors are common causes of these accidents:
- Distracted driving is a major contributor to pedestrian accidents. Drivers can be distracted by their phones, adjust the radio, or even eat while driving.
- Another important factor in pedestrian accidents is speeding. A vehicle that is speeding has less time for the driver to react to an unexpected event, like a pedestrian who steps into the crosswalk.
- It is also common for drivers to fail to yield when at crosswalks. Florida law requires that drivers stop for people in crosswalks. When drivers do not yield to pedestrians, they are vulnerable to being hit.
- Another common cause of Tampa pedestrian accidents is driving under the influence. DUI is a problem that persists in Tampa despite the strict laws against it. It contributes to many pedestrian accidents every year.
- The weather conditions can also be a factor in accidents involving pedestrians. It is more likely that drivers who don’t adjust their driving style or speed to these conditions will cause an accident with pedestrians.
- Lastly, pedestrian accidents can be caused by improper lane use and failure to obey traffic signs. Drivers who run red lights or make illegal turnings, swerve in bike lanes, and swerve onto bike paths can create dangerous situations for pedestrians.
What Are the Most Common Injuries in Pedestrian Collisions in Tampa?
Pedestrian injuries in Tampa may be severe, or even fatal.
- Broken bones are one of the most common injuries sustained by pedestrians in accidents. Fractures can require extensive medical care, including surgery. They may also result in long recovery times and physical limitations.
- Tampa pedestrian accidents are often accompanied by head injuries. Head injuries can include migraines, concussions, and other TBIs. They may affect a person’s abilities to work, maintain relationships, or perform everyday activities.
- Another serious concern is spinal cord injuries. It can cause partial or total paralysis depending on where the injury occurred and the severity. Rehabilitation is often required for a long time.
- Accidents involving pedestrians can also cause internal injuries. Internal organs can be damaged by the force of a collision, causing internal bleeding and complications.
- Soft tissue injuries such as sprains and strains are common. Soft tissue injuries may limit mobility and need physical therapy to heal.
- In addition, many pedestrians who are involved in accidents suffer deep lacerations and cuts. Deep lacerations may cause blood loss that requires stitches or other medical interventions to heal.
How Can a Pedestrian Hit by Car Attorney in Tampa Help With Your Case?
A pedestrian accident lawyer in Tampa can help you with your personal injury claim if you have been injured in an accident.
A pedestrian accident attorney will first thoroughly investigate your case. It is important to gather all the necessary evidence such as police reports and witness statements. The lawyers can work with accident reconstruction specialists to determine how and why the accident happened, and who was at fault.
They will ensure that all medical bills, lost income, and other expenses are accounted for in your claim. They will make sure that medical bills, lost wages, and other expenses, are included in your claim.
A pedestrian accident attorney can also represent you in court if needed. Many cases can be settled without going to court. However, in some instances, litigation may be necessary to reach a fair result.
A pedestrian hit by car attorney in Tampa who is experienced also knows the intricacies of Florida’s insurance and personal injury laws. You can be guided through the legal process by an experienced pedestrian accident lawyer.
A compassionate lawyer can also provide emotional support in this difficult time. A dedicated lawyer can help you deal with the aftermath of a car accident. They will inform you of the progress of your case, and advise on how to proceed.
Get a Free Consultation Today!
Call us at (813) 803-0733
Maximizing Compensation in a Tampa Pedestrian Accident Case
Pedestrian accidents in Tampa can often be covered by various types of insurance.
PIP (Personal Injury Protection) is the primary insurance coverage. Florida law requires that all drivers carry PIP coverage. As long as you, or a member of your household, have PIP coverage for a car, you’ll be covered in the event of a pedestrian accident.
You should be covered by the PIP coverage of the driver at fault if you were not driving a car at the time you had an accident.
A pedestrian who is injured can recover damages from a third party, such as:
- Medical costs are the immediate concern. Compensation may cover hospital costs, doctor’s visits, surgeries, and physical therapy. It can also cover future medical expenses.
- Loss of income is also a significant compensation area. The pedestrian can receive compensation if they are unable to return to work because of their injuries. The lost income can include future earnings if the injury results in a long-term or permanent disability.
- The pedestrian is compensated for physical and emotional pain as a result of the accident. This compensation is often substantial, especially when there are severe injuries or trauma.
- A pedestrian who is injured may also be entitled to compensation if their injuries prevent them from participating in the activities they used to enjoy or forming relationships.
Litigating a Third-Party Pedestrian Accident Case in Tampa
When the injured party and responsible party are unable to reach an agreement through negotiation, the case may be brought before the civil courts of Tampa.
- Third-party litigation is necessary when the insurance company refuses to pay your claim, or if they offer a settlement that does not cover your medical costs, lost income, and other damages. If they refuse to negotiate fair, you may need to take the case to court to get the compensation you deserve.
- A lawsuit may also be necessary if the injury is severe or causes long-term disability. The compensation required in these cases is usually substantial and the insurance company might not be willing to pay it all. An attorney can help you secure funds for ongoing medical care and other long-term expenses.
There are many options available to you when it comes time to litigate:
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Filing Personal Injury Lawsuit
This is the most popular litigation option. The plaintiff files a lawsuit with the driver at fault. Your lawyer will use evidence to prove that the at-fault driver was negligent and that his actions led to your injuries. The case will be decided by a judge or jury, who will determine how much compensation you deserve.
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Mediation
Many cases are mediated before going to court. A mediator is neutral and helps both parties negotiate a settlement. Mediation is a cost-effective and less adversarial way to settle a dispute. However, both parties must compromise.
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Arbitration
Similar to mediation and arbitration, a neutral party is involved. In arbitration, however, an arbitrator will make a binding decision only after listening to both sides. It is quicker than a trial but the final decision cannot usually be appealed.
Contact an Experienced Tampa Pedestrian Accident Attorney Right Away
It can be very difficult to navigate the claims and lawsuits for pedestrian accidents in Tampa on your own.
A knowledgeable pedestrian hit by car attorney in Tampa from Hysenlika Law Firm will represent you at every stage of the case. This includes negotiating with representatives from insurance companies and litigating through the State Court System if needed.
