Pedestrian injury compensation claims have become a growing concern in Florida, with alarming statistics highlighting the urgent need for preventive measures to ensure the safety of pedestrians on the roads. If you are a pedestrian who has been involved in an accident, it is important to understand your rights and options for seeking justice and compensation for your injuries. Call 407-846-2240 for a free consultation with an Orlando car accident attorney at the Martinez Manglardi Orlando personal injury law firm if you have suffered a pedestrian injury.
Understanding the Rise of Pedestrian Accidents in Florida
Pedestrian accidents in Florida have been on the rise in recent years, resulting in a significant number of injuries and fatalities. According to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FHSMV), there were over 9,000 pedestrian accidents in 2020 alone, causing nearly 700 fatalities. These statistics highlight the urgent need for effective measures to address this issue and ensure the safety of pedestrians across the state.
Factors Contributing to Pedestrian Accidents
Several factors contribute to the rising number of pedestrian injury claims in Florida. One major factor is driver inattention, which includes activities such as texting, talking on the phone, or engaging in other distractions while driving. Speeding is another significant contributor, as it reduces the time available for drivers to react and stop when encountering pedestrians. Failure to yield the right of way to pedestrians at crosswalks and intersections, impaired driving, and poorly designed or maintained roadways also play a role in these accidents.
Pedestrian Injury Compensation Claims
If you have been involved in a pedestrian accident in Florida, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries and damages. There are different avenues for seeking compensation, depending on the circumstances of the accident and the insurance coverage available.
Filing a Claim with Personal Injury Protection (PIP) Insurance
Florida follows a no-fault insurance system, which means that each driver is required to carry Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance. As a pedestrian, you may be able to file a claim with your own PIP insurance policy or the policy of a family member who resides in your household. PIP insurance covers medical expenses and a portion of lost wages, regardless of who is at fault for the accident.
Filing a Claim Based on the At-Fault Driver’s Insurance
If you do not have PIP coverage or your injuries exceed the limits of your PIP policy, you may be able to file a claim against the at-fault driver’s insurance. In Florida, drivers are required to carry a minimum of $10,000 in PIP coverage, which should cover relatively minor injuries. However, for more serious injuries, additional compensation may be necessary, and filing a claim against the at-fault driver’s insurance may be appropriate.
The Importance of Documentation
When seeking compensation for pedestrian injuries, proper documentation is crucial. This includes obtaining a police report, gathering medical records, taking photographs of the accident scene and your injuries, and obtaining witness statements. These pieces of evidence can significantly strengthen your claim and establish the extent of your injuries and damages.
The Role of a Personal Injury Attorney in Pedestrian Injury Cases
Navigating the process of seeking compensation for pedestrian injuries can be complex and overwhelming. This is where the expertise of a personal injury attorney becomes invaluable. An experienced attorney can guide you through the entire claims process, ensuring that your rights are protected and that you receive fair compensation for your injuries.
If you have suffered a pedestrian injury, call 407-846-2240 for a free consultation with an Orlando car accident attorney at the Martinez Manglardi personal injury law firm. Convenient locations throughout Central Florida.
