Miami Pedestrian Accident Attorneys

In a collision between a pedestrian and an automobile, there is never any question as to who comes out on top. Thousands of pounds of metal can be incredibly damaging to the human body, even if the car is barely moving.

If you or a loved one has been in a pedestrian accident with a car or truck, you may be able to pursue legal action against the party responsible for the accident. Contact our firm to get knowledgeable legal counsel concerning your accident.

Dangers of Walking In Florida

Florida does not have a good track record when it comes to pedestrian injuries and fatalities. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), Florida had 476 pedestrian fatalities in 2012. This figure places Florida in second place for most pedestrian fatalities, with only California having more.

The problem is so significant that the Center for Urban Transportation Research at the University of South Florida released a Florida Pedestrian and Bicycle Strategic Safety Plan to help the state address the excessive pedestrian accidents. According to this document, Florida’s pedestrian fatality rates were almost double the national average as of 2011.

Injuries From a Pedestrian Accident

A number of injuries can occur as a result of a pedestrian accident, many of them life-altering. Some of these include:

• Road rash
• Spinal injuries
• Brain damage
• Broken or fractured bones
• Disfigurement
• Paralysis
• Death

When you or a loved one are hurt in a pedestrian accident through no fault of your own, it is always advisable to seek out an experienced accident attorney. Injuries can last a lifetime, and the medical and financial costs associated with them can be substantial.

Legal Options After a Pedestrian Accident

When you are hit by a car, you may be injured, disoriented, confused and in pain. If so, your first step following such an accident should be to seek medical attention. However, injuries from an accident may take time to become apparent.

Even if you are not in pain, take the proper steps that come after any accident like this. Record all the information you can – including personal information from the driver, insurance information, car details, etc. Take pictures of the accident scene if you have the opportunity.

After you have sought out appropriate medical care, your next step should always be to speak with an attorney. A knowledgeable Miami pedestrian accident lawyer will guide you through the legal process. Your lawyer can help you understand if you have a case, and how to pursue that case to a successful completion.

Florida Leads The Country In Pedestrian Deaths

Pedestrian fatalities in Florida have increased 15% since 2009.  When it comes to deaths per 100,000 residents, Florida leads the nation at 2.70.

Given what we know about pedestrian accidents and the new emphasis on urban living we need lower speed limits and stricter enforcement.  Sidewalks in downtown are Brickell would also help.

In the event you are injured as a pedestrian, please keep in mind that under the PIP/No Fault laws, your car insurance company will pay your medical bills up to $10,000.00 regardless of fault.  Alternatively, if you do not own a car, but reside with a relative that owns a car-then his/her insurance company will pay your medical bills. Lastly, if you do not own a car nor reside with a relative that owns a car, then the insurance carrier for the vehicle that struck you will pay your medical bills.

If you have any questions about insurance coverage and payment of medical bills following a pedestrian accident, call our lawyer who specialize in pedestrian accidents.

Contact a Miami Pedestrian Injury Attorney

If you or a loved one has been hurt in a pedestrian accident, contact our firm to discuss what happened and to learn what your next steps should be.

Call our Miami law office toll free at 305-372-0123 now for a free consultation. We are also available through our online contact form. Let us know about your case, and we will get back to your shortly.