Pedestrian Accident Attorney Tampa
Tampa is a beautiful city, but its roads can be dangerous for pedestrians. If you or someone you love has been injured in a pedestrian accident, you may be entitled to compensation. A Tampa pedestrian accident lawyer can help you pursue your claim and get the justice you deserve.
The Fran Haasch Law Group is a personal injury law firm representing injured pedestrians in Tampa, Lutz, Brandon, Riverview, and the greater Lakeland area for over 21 years. We have a proven track record of success in pedestrian accident cases and are dedicated to fighting for our client’s rights. If you or someone you love has been injured in a pedestrian accident, we can help. Call us today to schedule a free case review with one of our experienced personal injury lawyers.
Common Types of Pedestrian Accidents in Tampa, FL
According to Smart Growth America, Florida has the highest pedestrian fatalities. In 2021, there were over 9,500 pedestrian accidents, 835 deaths, and 7,329 injuries.
While Tampa is a great place to vacation, it welcomes an average of 30 million tourists each year. With such a high volume of people, it is no wonder that pedestrian accidents are so common.
Based on per capita numbers, Hillsborough County has the highest traffic fatality rate among large counties in the United States. With 655 pedestrian accidents, over 60 people died, and there were 541 injuries in Hillsborough County in 2021.
There are many types of pedestrian accidents, but some of the most common include:
- Intersection accidents often occur when a driver fails to yield the right of way to a pedestrian crossing the street.
- Crosswalk accidents can occur when a driver does not stop at a crosswalk or fails to yield to a pedestrian already in the crosswalk.
- Sidewalk accidents usually occur when a driver loses control of their vehicle and sideswipes a pedestrian on the sidewalk.
- Hit-and-run accidents occur when a driver hits a pedestrian and then flees the accident scene.
- Parking lot accidents happen when a driver backs out of a parking space and hits a pedestrian walking by.
No matter what type of pedestrian accident you were involved in, it is important to speak with an experienced pedestrian accident lawyer as soon as possible. These accidents can be very serious, and you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries.
At The Fran Haasch Law Group, our Tampa pedestrian accident lawyers have years of experience helping victims of pedestrian accidents get the compensation they deserve. We will work tirelessly to ensure you get the best possible outcome in your case.
How Do Pedestrian Accidents Happen?
Many factors can contribute to a pedestrian traffic accident. In some cases, the pedestrian may be at fault. However, in many cases, the driver is to blame. Some of the most common causes of pedestrian accidents include:
- Distracted driving is one of the most common causes of pedestrian accidents. Distracted driving includes anything that takes a driver’s attention away from the road. This can include talking on the phone, texting, eating, drinking, or even changing the radio station.
- Speeding – Speed is a factor in many accidents, and pedestrian accidents are no exception. When a driver is speeding, they have less time to react to hazards on the road. This can lead to severe accidents.
- Driving under the influence – Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol is never a good idea. It impairs a driver’s ability to make sound decisions and can slow their reaction time. This increases the risk of an accident, especially if the driver is speeding or driving in an area with pedestrians.
- Failing to yield – Drivers are required to yield the right of way to pedestrians in many situations. This includes yielding at crosswalks and stop signs. A driver failing to yield can lead to a serious accident.
- Reckless driving – Reckless driving is any driving that endangers the lives of others. This can include speeding, tailgating, weaving in and out of traffic, or running red lights. Any type of reckless driving can increase the risk of an accident.
What Should I Do If I’ve Been Involved in a Pedestrian Accident?
If you’ve been involved in a pedestrian accident, there are a few things you should do:
- Get medical help – This is the first and most important thing you should do. Even if you don’t think you’re injured, it’s always best to get checked out by a medical professional. Some injuries, such as internal bleeding or concussions, may not be immediately apparent.
- Call the police – The police will create a report of the accident, which can be used as evidence in your case.
- Gather evidence – If you’re able, take pictures of the accident scene and get the contact information of any witnesses. This can help establish what happened and who was at fault.
- Speak to a lawyer – An experienced pedestrian accident lawyer can help you understand your rights and options. They can also help you get the compensation you deserve for your injuries.
Contact The Fran Haasch Law Group today if you’ve been hit by a motor vehicle. We will review your case and help you understand your rights and options.
What Are Some Common Injuries in Pedestrian Accidents?
Tampa pedestrian accidents can result in many injuries, from minor scrapes and bruises to life-threatening injuries. Some of the most common injuries in pedestrian accidents include:
- Head injuries – Head injuries, such as concussions, skull fractures, and traumatic brain injuries, are some of the most serious injuries a pedestrian can sustain. These injuries can lead to long-term complications, such as memory problems, vision problems, and even paralysis.
- Neck and back injuries – Neck and back injuries, such as whiplash and herniated discs, are also common in pedestrian accidents. These types of injuries can be extremely painful and may require surgery to correct.
- Broken bones – Broken bones are one of the most common types of injuries in pedestrian accidents. Legs, ankles, and feet are the most commonly broken bones in these accidents.
- Internal bleeding – Internal bleeding is a severe injury that can occur in pedestrian accidents. This type of injury may not be immediately apparent, so it’s important to seek medical attention immediately after an accident.
Liability for Pedestrian Accidents
In most cases, the driver will be liable for a pedestrian accident. This is because drivers must exercise a certain amount of care when operating their vehicles. When a driver fails to do this, and an accident occurs, they can be held liable for the injuries caused.
However, compensation for your losses will first come from your own personal injury protection coverage, if you have it. PIP is Florida’s no-fault insurance that pays for some or all of your medical bills and lost wages, no matter who caused the accident. However, compensation for your losses will first come from your own personal injury protection coverage, if you have it. You may also be able to file a claim against the driver’s liability insurance company if your injuries are serious.
Speaking to an experienced personal injury lawyer is important to understand your options. Contact The Fran Haasch Law Group today for a free case review.
How Do I Prove a Driver’s Liability?
To prove a driver’s liability, you must show that they were negligent in their actions. To do this, you will need to establish the following:
- The driver owed you a duty of care – All drivers owe pedestrians a duty of care. This means that they must take reasonable steps to avoid causing an accident. For example, they should be cautious when driving in areas where pedestrians are likely to be present.
- The driver breached their duty of care – The driver must have breached their duty of care to be held liable. This means they must have done something that a reasonable person would not have done under the same circumstances. For example, if they were speeding or running a red light, they may have breached their duty of care.
- The driver’s breach of care caused your accident – The driver’s breach of care must have directly caused your accident.
- The driver’s breach of care caused your injuries – The driver’s actions must have directly caused your injuries.
If you can prove that the driver was negligent in their actions, you will be able to hold them liable for your accident.
Damages Available in Pedestrian Accident Cases
Some of the damages that may be available in a pedestrian accident claim include:
- Medical expenses – This can include hospitalization, surgery, medication, physical therapy, and any other treatment related to your injuries.
- Lost wages – If your injuries have prevented you from working, you may be able to recover lost income and benefits.
- Pain and suffering – You may be able to recover damages for the physical and emotional pain and suffering caused by your injuries.
- Wrongful death – If a loved one has been killed in a pedestrian accident, you may be able to file a wrongful death claim for funeral expenses and more.
Safety Tips for Pedestrians in Tampa
Pedestrians can do a few things to stay safe on Tampa’s roads. Some safety tips for pedestrians include:
- Walking on sidewalks whenever possible – If a sidewalk is available, use it. This will help you to avoid walking on the road where you are more likely to be hit by a car.
- Walking in well-lit areas – Try to walk in well-lit areas, especially at night. This will help you to be seen by drivers.
- Wearing bright clothing – Wearing bright clothing will also help you to be seen by drivers.
- Being cautious at intersections – Intersections are one of the most dangerous places for pedestrians. Be sure to look both ways before crossing the street and only cross when it is safe to do so.
The Fran Haasch Law Group: Tampa Pedestrian Accident Attorneys That Work For You
If you’ve been injured in a pedestrian accident, the Fran Haasch Law Group can help. We have over 21 years of experience handling these cases and will work to get you the compensation you deserve for your injuries. We serve clients in Tampa, Clearwater, St. Petersburg, Palm Harbor, New Port Richey, and the surrounding areas. Contact our law firm today to schedule a free consultation.
Areas We Serve- Tampa
Arbor Greene, Ballast Point, Bayshore Gardens, Bayside West, Beach Park Isles, Belmar Shore, Culbreath Heights, Culbreath Isles, Drew Park, Fair Oaks Manhattan Manor, Forest Hills, Gray Gables, Highland Pines, Live Oaks Square, Macfarlane, North Hyde Park, Oakford Park, Palma Ceia, Palma Ceia West, Palmetto Beach, Port Tampa City, Rembrandt Gardens, South Tampa, South Westshore, Sun Bay South, Sunset Park, Swann Estates, Temple Crest, Virginia Park, Wellswood.
