A Spring Hill pedestrian accident lawyer can help when a simple walk turns into a life-changing event. The warm weather in Spring Hill makes walking a relaxing alternative to driving or taking public transportation, but pedestrians remain vulnerable to reckless drivers. Even when walking on or near the street, you can still be struck by a vehicle. In Hernando County alone, 66 pedestrians were injured in crashes in 2020 (FLHSMV).
Pedestrian accidents are often severe because pedestrians have no protection against heavy vehicles. With distracted driving on the rise, many crashes show little to no attempt to brake before impact. If you were seriously injured or lost a loved one due to a negligent driver’s actions, reach out to a dedicated accident attorney today.
Navigating the legal system and pursuing compensation can be overwhelming while you are coping with injuries, medical bills, and daily stress. Let a Spring Hill pedestrian accident lawyer from our firm handle your case and fight for the full and fair compensation you deserve, so you can focus on healing.
What Is Considered A Pedestrian Accident?
A pedestrian accident is a type of motor vehicle collision that involves a non-motorist party. These types of accidents frequently result in severe or fatal injuries to the pedestrians involved. While both drivers and pedestrians can and should take precautions to mitigate the risk of an accident, doing so does not guarantee complete safety. If you were harmed in this way, hiring a Spring Hill pedestrian accident lawyer can significantly improve your chances of recovering compensation from the at-fault party.
As we mentioned earlier, pedestrian accidents often leave victims with critical injuries. It is important to seek medical care as soon as you can after an accident. In Florida, you have 14 days from the date of the accident to seek medical care in order to qualify to receive your PIP benefits. You can learn more about how PIP or “no-fault” works here.
Common Causes Of Traffic Collisions Involving Pedestrians In Spring Hill
A pedestrian accident could have multiple causes. However, most collisions occur due to a motorist’s negligence. Some of the most common causes include:
- Distracted or inattentive driving
- Traffic violations, such as speeding or failing to yield
- Low visibility when driving at night
- Inclement weather conditions
When determining the cause of your accident, you should work with a Spring Hill pedestrian accident lawyer.
Who Is Liable For Damages In A Pedestrian Injury Case?
The parties who are liable for your damages will vary depending on the cause of the accident. If the driver was texting, they would likely be the primary liable party. However, if a lack of signage caused the crash, you may have a case against the responsible government entity. It is important to note that the other party may claim you were also responsible for the accident.
Can You Still Recover Damages if You are Partially At Fault?
Under Florida’s comparative fault law, codified at § 768.81(2) of the Florida Statutes, if an injured party contributes to their injuries, they will not be barred from recovery. However, their damages award will be reduced to reflect their portion of fault. A hard-working Spring Hill pedestrian accident lawyer can help you maximize your potential damages award even if you are partly responsible for your injuries and damages.
How Can A Spring Hill Pedestrian Accident Attorney Help You?
Pedestrian-vehicle collisions can be some of the most dangerous types of accidents. Due to the severity of the potential damages, it is difficult to recover full compensation without qualified legal representation. Besides dealing with the constant calls from the insurance companies, a personal injury attorney can also help oversee the investigation and accident analysis, which then, in turn, helps us develop a strong case strategy, so we can make sure you are compensated for the full amount you deserve.
Additionally, with our 35+ years of experience and Mike Hancock’s background in insurance defense, we are familiar with the tactics that insurance companies will use to devalue your case and know how to counter those assertions. If the insurance company cannot agree to fair compensation in negotiations, we, as your personal injury lawyers, will file a lawsuit on your behalf and take your case to court if necessary. We know your rights; we know the law, and we know what you deserve.
If you or a loved one were seriously harmed due to another party’s negligence, protecting your legal rights will be crucial to ensure you receive adequate financial compensation for your injuries. To learn more about the legal recourse you may have, call Hancock Injury Attorneys at 813-915-1110 to schedule a free consultation with a Spring Hill pedestrian accident lawyer today.
Spring Hill Pedestrian Accident – Questions and Answers
Q: What should I do if I am hit by a car as a pedestrian in Spring Hill?
A: If you are injured in a pedestrian accident, you may have the right to file a personal injury claim. An experienced pedestrian accident lawyer can help you pursue compensation for your injuries, medical bills, and other damages.
Q: Why are pedestrian accidents so dangerous?
A: Pedestrians have no protection against the size and force of a motor vehicle. Because of this, pedestrian accidents often result in severe or even fatal injuries.
Q: What are common causes of pedestrian accidents?
A: Pedestrian accidents are often caused by negligent driving, including:
- Drivers failing to yield at crosswalks
- Distracted driving
- Speeding
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Drivers making turns without checking for pedestrians
- Intersection collisions
- Accidents in parking lots
These situations can lead to serious injuries for pedestrians.
Q: Do drivers have to yield to pedestrians in Florida?
A: Yes. Florida law requires drivers to yield the right-of-way to pedestrians in marked crosswalks and at intersections. Drivers must also stop for pedestrians who are already crossing the road.
Q: What responsibilities do pedestrians have under Florida law?
A: Pedestrians also have responsibilities, including:
- Using sidewalks when they are available
- Walking on the left side of the road if there is no sidewalk
- Following traffic signals
- Crossing at designated crosswalks when signals are present
Failing to follow these rules could affect a pedestrian’s ability to recover compensation after an accident.
Q: How can a pedestrian accident lawyer help my case?
A: A pedestrian accident lawyer from our firm can help by:
- Investigating the accident
- Gathering evidence and witness statements
- Determining liability
- Calculating damages
- Negotiating with insurance companies
- Filing lawsuits and representing you in court if necessary
Our legal guidance can help ensure your claim is handled properly and that you pursue the full compensation you deserve.