Walking should be one of the safest ways to get around, but unfortunately, pedestrians face serious risks whenever they share the road with vehicles. A simple walk across a parking lot or neighborhood street can quickly turn into a life-altering event if a driver is distracted, careless, or simply not paying attention. Because pedestrians have no protection against the force of a moving car, the injuries that result are often catastrophic, requiring extensive medical treatment and long-term recovery. At Ullian Trial Law, we understand the devastating impact these types of accidents can have on your health, your finances, and your future. Contact a seasoned Indian River County personal injury lawyer from Ullian Trial Law for assistance with your pedestrian accident claim today.
Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents
Pedestrian accidents can occur for many different reasons, but most are linked to negligence. Some of the most frequent factors are as follows:
- Distracted driving: Texting, adjusting navigation systems, or talking on the phone can prevent drivers from noticing pedestrians in crosswalks, intersections, or parking areas.
- Speeding: A speeding vehicle has less time to react and requires more distance to stop, significantly increasing the chances of striking a pedestrian.
- Failure to yield at crosswalks: Florida law requires drivers to yield to pedestrians at designated crosswalks, yet many motorists fail to do so, resulting in dangerous collisions.
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs: Impaired drivers often have slower reaction times and poor judgment, creating a serious risk for pedestrians.
- Poor visibility conditions: Accidents often occur at night or in poorly lit areas where drivers cannot see pedestrians until it is too late.
- Left-hand turns at intersections: Drivers making left turns sometimes focus solely on oncoming traffic and fail to check for pedestrians crossing the street.
- Reckless or aggressive driving: Tailgating, running red lights, and other reckless behaviors put pedestrians at direct risk of injury.
- Dangerous property conditions: Overgrown landscaping, obstructed signage, and poorly maintained roadways can make it difficult for drivers to see pedestrians in time to avoid a collision.
- Backing-up accidents: Drivers in parking lots or driveways who fail to check mirrors and blind spots often strike pedestrians, particularly children.
- Weather-related hazards: Heavy rain, fog, or glare from the sun can reduce visibility and cause motorists to miss pedestrians on the roadway.
Injuries Sustained by Pedestrians
Because pedestrians do not have the protection of a vehicle, even a low-speed accident can result in severe injuries. Some of the most common injuries are as follows:
- Broken bones: Fractures in the arms, legs, ribs, or pelvis are common after being struck by a vehicle.
- Head injuries: Traumatic brain injuries, concussions, or skull fractures can occur if a pedestrian’s head strikes the pavement or the vehicle.
- Spinal cord injuries: These can lead to partial or total paralysis, depending on the severity of the impact.
- Internal organ damage: The force of a collision may cause life-threatening internal bleeding or organ injuries.
- Soft tissue injuries: Severe bruising, sprains, and torn ligaments are often seen in pedestrian accident victims.
- Road rash and lacerations: Being thrown onto pavement can result in painful cuts, abrasions, and scarring.
- Amputations: In extreme cases, the impact can cause traumatic amputation or require surgical removal of a severely damaged limb.
- Psychological trauma: Many victims also experience post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety, or depression following the accident.
The seriousness of these injuries often means long hospital stays, ongoing rehabilitation, and permanent changes to a person’s daily life. This is why it is essential to pursue full compensation for both current and future damages.
Proving Your Accident Claim
Successfully pursuing a pedestrian accident claim requires evidence and careful documentation. If you are able, taking certain steps immediately after the accident can help strengthen your case:
- Call 911: Always report the accident so that law enforcement can create an official record.
- Seek medical attention: Even if you feel fine, some injuries do not appear right away. Having medical documentation is critical for your claim.
- Gather evidence at the scene: Take photos of the location, vehicle damage, skid marks, and any traffic signals or signs nearby.
- Obtain witness information: Eyewitness testimony can provide valuable support if liability is disputed.
- Do not speak to the insurance company without legal advice: Adjusters often try to get victims to accept a quick settlement for far less than the claim is worth.
- Follow all treatment recommendations: Gaps in treatment can be used against you by the defense to suggest that your injuries are not serious.
To prove liability, your attorney will gather police reports, medical records, accident reconstruction evidence, and expert testimony if necessary. Under Florida’s modified comparative negligence law, your recovery may be reduced if you are found partially at fault, but you can still pursue compensation as long as you are less than 51 percent responsible for the accident. Having skilled representation ensures that evidence is preserved, deadlines are met, and your rights are fully protected.
Contact a Vero Beach, Florida Pedestrian Accident Lawyer
Pedestrian accidents can turn your world upside down in a matter of seconds. When another person’s negligence has caused your injuries, you deserve justice and financial recovery for the harm you have endured. Contact a seasoned pedestrian accident lawyer from Ullian Trial Law for a free consultation today.
