Tampa Pedestrian Accident Lawyer
Injured by a Negligent Motorist While Walking or Running?
Pedestrian accidents are some of the most devastating events that can occur on Florida’s busy roads. With nothing to shield them from the force of a vehicle, pedestrians often suffer catastrophic injuries or even death when struck by a car, truck, or motorcycle. At Perenich, Caulfield, Avril & Noyes Personal Injury Lawyers, we understand how overwhelming it can be to face medical bills, lost wages, and pain after an accident. Our Tampa pedestrian accident attorneys are here to fight for your rights and help you pursue the full compensation you deserve.
Call (727) 591-3354 or contact us online today to request a free case review.
What is a Pedestrian Accident?
A pedestrian accident occurs when a person traveling on foot, in a wheelchair, or using a mobility device is struck by a motor vehicle or bicycle. These incidents often happen in crosswalks, parking lots, intersections, or along road shoulders. Even at low speeds, the impact from a vehicle can lead to severe and lasting injuries.
According to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV), thousands of pedestrian crashes occur statewide each year, and the Tampa area consistently ranks among the most dangerous for pedestrians. These accidents frequently result from careless or negligent driving behavior.
If you’ve been injured while walking, you have legal options. Our team at Perenich, Caulfield, Avril & Noyes Personal Injury Lawyers can help you file a claim, deal with insurance companies, and pursue justice against the party responsible for your injuries.
Florida Pedestrian Laws
Florida has specific laws designed to protect pedestrians and define the responsibilities of both drivers and walkers. Understanding these laws can help determine fault in a pedestrian accident case.
Key Florida pedestrian laws include:
- Right-of-Way at Crosswalks: Drivers must yield to pedestrians crossing the road at marked crosswalks and intersections.
- Obligation to Use Crosswalks: Pedestrians must use designated crosswalks when available and should not suddenly leave the curb in front of an oncoming vehicle.
- Sidewalk Use: When sidewalks are available, pedestrians must use them instead of walking on the roadway.
- Walking Along Roadways: If no sidewalk is present, pedestrians should walk on the shoulder, facing traffic.
- Yielding to Vehicles Outside Crosswalks: Pedestrians crossing outside a crosswalk must yield to oncoming vehicles.
Even when a pedestrian is partially at fault, Florida’s comparative negligence rule may still allow recovery of damages. This means you can still recover compensation, though it may be reduced by your percentage of fault. Our Tampa pedestrian accident attorneys can assess your case and explain how Florida’s laws apply to your situation.
Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents
Pedestrian accidents are often preventable and result from negligent or reckless driver behavior. Some of the most common causes include:
- Distracted Driving: Drivers using cell phones, GPS devices, or other distractions may fail to notice pedestrians in crosswalks or intersections.
- Speeding: Excessive speed reduces a driver’s ability to react in time to avoid a collision.
- Failure to Yield: Many pedestrian crashes occur when drivers fail to yield the right-of-way at crosswalks or intersections.
- Impaired Driving: Alcohol and drug use significantly increase the risk of pedestrian accidents.
- Poor Visibility: Accidents often occur at night or in poorly lit areas when pedestrians are harder to see.
- Turning Vehicles: Drivers making left or right turns may not see pedestrians crossing in front of them.
- Traffic Signal Violations: Running red lights or ignoring traffic signs can easily lead to a pedestrian strike.
Common Injuries in Pedestrian Accidents
Pedestrian accident injuries can be catastrophic due to the direct impact of a vehicle against an unprotected body. Victims may suffer:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
- Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
- Broken bones and fractures
- Internal bleeding and organ damage
- Road rash and soft tissue injuries
- Disfigurement and scarring
- Wrongful death
These injuries often require long-term medical care, rehabilitation, and assistance with daily activities. Our team can help ensure your financial recovery covers both immediate and future needs.
Compensation Available for Injured Pedestrians
Florida law allows injured pedestrians to seek compensation for both economic and non-economic damages. Depending on the circumstances of your accident, you may be entitled to recover:
- Medical expenses: Hospital bills, surgeries, therapy, and medication costs.
- Lost wages: Compensation for income lost due to injury and time off work.
- Loss of earning capacity: For victims unable to return to their prior job or career.
- Pain and suffering: Physical pain, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life.
- Property damage: Costs of repairing or replacing damaged personal items.
- Wrongful death damages: Funeral expenses and loss of companionship for surviving family members.
At Perenich, Caulfield, Avril & Noyes Personal Injury Lawyers, we work tirelessly to calculate the full value of your damages and pursue every avenue for compensation. We’re not afraid to stand up to powerful insurance companies or take your case to court if necessary.
Pedestrian Accident FAQs
What should I do immediately after a pedestrian accident in Tampa?
Call 911 and seek medical attention, even if you think your injuries are minor. Obtain the driver’s information, take photos of the scene, and get witness contact details. Contact a pedestrian accident attorney as soon as possible.
Can I recover compensation if I was partially at fault?
Yes. Under Florida’s modified comparative negligence law, you may still be entitled to compensation as long as you were not more than 50% responsible for the accident.
How long do I have to file a pedestrian accident claim in Florida?
The statute of limitations for most personal injury cases in Florida is two years from the date of the accident. Missing this deadline can prevent you from recovering any compensation.
Will insurance cover my pedestrian accident injuries?
Florida’s no-fault insurance (PIP) may cover a portion of your medical expenses, even as a pedestrian. However, if your injuries are severe, you may file a claim against the at-fault driver’s insurance for additional damages.
How can a Tampa pedestrian accident attorney help?
An experienced attorney will handle communication with insurers, gather evidence, assess liability, and negotiate for fair compensation. If necessary, they will represent you in court to ensure your rights are fully protected.
Contact Perenich, Caulfield, Avril & Noyes Personal Injury Lawyers Today
If you’ve been injured in a pedestrian accident in Tampa, you don’t have to face the aftermath alone. At Perenich, Caulfield, Avril & Noyes Personal Injury Lawyers, we are committed to helping accident victims rebuild their lives. Our team provides compassionate guidance and aggressive representation every step of the way.
Contact Perenich, Caulfield, Avril & Noyes Personal Injury Lawyers at (727) 591-3354.
We treat you like family.
If you can’t come to us, we’ll come to you.
Representing Accident Victims in Tampa Bay since 1955
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“Friendly knowledgeable and kept me informed about my case. Any offer, bill or question was readily answered. Would definitely recommend and refer people to Bryan Caulfield and his team!!”- Betty B.
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“Working with Mark Perenich on my auto injury case was an absolute game-changer. From the very beginning, he brought a level of professionalism, expertise, and care that immediately put us at ease.”- Kerry B.
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We’ve been proudly serving Clearwater, St. Petersburg, and the Tampa Bay area for generations. As the first personal injury law firm in Clearwater, our dedicated legal team brings over 300 years of combined experience to each and every case. If you’ve been injured and need support, please reach outtoday for a free consultation, we are here to help you.
