Pedestrian Accidents
Pedestrian accidents can cause significant injuries and result in astronomical bills and expenses. Death, paralysis, broken bones, and brain injury are just some of the potentially grievous results of pedestrian accidents.
If you or your loved one was recently involved in a pedestrian accident involving a motor vehicle, call QBM LEGAL at
+1 (954) 669-0809 to discuss your legal options with a pedestrian accident lawyer in Fort Lauderdale. We can review your case, explain how to best proceed with your claim, and how to maximize your compensation.
How prevalent are pedestrian accidents?
Over 5,300 pedestrians were killed and 70,000 were injured in 2015, according to NHTSA.
Florida is one of the riskiest state in the nation when it comes to pedestrian safety.
There are various factors that contribute to the risks of pedestrian accidents, such as:
Lack of safe pedestrian walkways and crosswalks
Congestion and overpopulation
Driver and pedestrian distraction (e.g., cellphones)
What options for recovery do I have as an injured pedestrian?
One of the first steps to take after a pedestrian accident is to determine what insurance and legal options you have to pursue compensation for your injuries. Florida is a no-fault state, so the majority of the time, accident victims simply file a claim with their own insurer.
Pedestrian accidents are somewhat unique, though. You might have several avenues available:
PIP: PIP coverage, insurance required by every registered driver in Florida that pays for a portion of your medical bills, will cover damages for injuries in pedestrian accidents, too. If you carry PIP insurance on your auto insurance policy or if someone in your house does, you can file a claim with that insurer, irrespective of fault.
The at-fault driver: If the driver was at fault for the accident, you can file a claim and recover under his insurance policy.
Liability lawsuit: If the at-fault party does not have sufficient insurance to cover your losses, you can file a civil suit in court to seek damages.
Determining liability and which insurer to file a claim with for a pedestrian accident can be tricky. The other party’s insurance company might try to apportion part or all of the blame onto you to deflect liability. Or it may attempt to minimize the severity of your injuries. Before taking any legal action or making any official recorded statements to the insurance adjuster, run your case by an attorney for advice.
Call us today at +1 (954) 669-0809 to schedule a FREE consultation.
