Pedestrian Accident Lawyer Tampa, FL

Pedestrian Accident Lawyer Tampa, Fl

According to national statistics, about 6,000 people are killed in pedestrian accidents each year. Many thousands more are severely injured. If you live in Florida and suffered injuries when a driver struck you with their vehicle, you need a skilled pedestrian accident lawyer Tampa, FL clients recommend from Jeff Murphy Law advocating for you.

What Are the Most Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents?

While there are many factors that can result in a pedestrian getting hit, the following are the most common:

•  Distracted driving: A driver who is talking or texting on their cell phone, fiddling with the radio or GPS, talking to a passenger, eating or drinking does not have their full attention on the road and often fails to see the pedestrian who is walking in the crosswalk in front of them.
•  Speeding: Far too many pedestrian accidents are caused by a driver who was speeding and was unable to stop in time to avoid striking a person crossing the street. The injuries from speeding pedestrian accidents are often severe because of the force of impact when the vehicle strikes the victim.
• Drunk or drugged driving: A driver who is under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs is a danger to everyone on the road, including pedestrians.
• Failure to yield or stop: There are certain situations where a pedestrian has the right of way. When a driver fails to yield at a traffic sign or rolls through a stop sign, they are not only violating traffic laws, but they are also putting the life of a pedestrian who is on the street and has the right of way at risk.
• Left turns: A pedestrian accident lawyer in Tampa, FL knows that one of the most dangerous situations for a pedestrian crossing in a crosswalk is a driver who is attempting to take a left turn. Their attention is often so focused on the traffic and waiting on an opening to turn, they do not see the pedestrian who is legally crossing.
• Weather conditions: A driver who does not adjust their vehicle speed when traveling in rain, fog, snow or ice can fail to see a pedestrian in time or be unable to slow down or stop in time on an icy or slippery road.
• Backing up: Some of the most devastating pedestrian accidents occur when a driver is backing up in their own driveways and do not see their child behind the car. Parking lots and parking lots are also high-risk places for pedestrians, especially during busy times, such as during the holidays.

Victims who have been injured in a pedestrian accident can legally recover for their medical expenses, loss of income, pain, and suffering, and more. If you would like to learn more, contact Jeff Murphy Law to meet with a Tampa, FL pedestrian accident lawyer.

When you’re looking for a pedestrian accident lawyer in Tampa, FL you might quickly realize that there are many firms to choose from, but not all are equal. Some lawyers may be a personal injury lawyer, but focus solely on car accidents or other specific incidents. Others may be a general practice lawyer who handles a bit of everything, but lacks the experience needed to fight and win your case. 

Following a Pedestrian Accident

Immediately after a pedestrian accident, medical care should be your main priority. Everything else apart from that can wait. Once you are able to do so, or you can ask someone to help you out, a police report should be filed. Contact details of the negligent party and/or witnesses should also be obtained. Photographic and video evidence, as well as anything else that may be useful in your case, should be gathered. From this point, you can call a Tampa pedestrian accident lawyer in FL for assistance.  

What You Should Not Do

A few things to avoid in a pedestrian accident case include:

•       Do not give any statements to any insurance companies other than your own
•       Be brief in what you say to your own insurance company when you report the accident
•       If you’re not sure what to say, ask a lawyer
•       Avoid admitting any fault; even if you are partially to blame

When Should I Contact an Attorney?

Ideally, you should contact an experienced Tampa, FL pedestrian accident lawyer as soon as you possibly can following a pedestrian accident. If you’ve ever seen a legal drama, you are aware that the strengths and weaknesses of any given case almost always turn on the specifics of the law (state, local, and/or federal, depending on your legal situation) and on the evidence that is presented by both sides. Pedestrian accidents aren’t always easy to reconstruct in regards to evidence. Unless your accident was clearly caught on a traffic camera, the experienced Florida legal team at Jeff Murphy Law may need to support your case through witness testimony, black box data from the motor vehicle that hit you, and any other sources of evidence that can be located. The sooner you connect with our Tampa, FL pedestrian accident lawyer, the sooner our legal team can begin preserving critically important evidence and protecting your rights. Evidence can become harder to track down the longer it takes to place a client’s case in motion. Please, try to call as soon as you can. Your future case (and your future self) will almost certainly thank you for this timely effort.

Should I Return Calls from an Insurance Provider?

Another reason to connect with an attorney as soon as you can in the wake of a pedestrian accident is that the insurance carrier of the motorist who hit you is likely going to call you within hours or days of your accident to take your statement and offer you a settlement. Initially, taking such a call can seem appealing. After all, you’ve just been injured and you’re probably anxious to ensure that your medical bills and lost time at work won’t affect your family too badly. However, it’s not generally in an accident victim’s best interests to speak with an insurance provider until they’ve consulted an attorney.

First, insurance companies are businesses that are interested in protecting their bottom line. It is relatively common knowledge that initial settlement offers from insurance providers tend to underpay the compensation amount to which victims are entitled. Insurance providers hope that your eagerness to settle the financial aspects of your situation and your (probably) unfamiliarity with the industry will lead you to take an offer that is less (and possibly far less) than what you’re entitled to. Our firm deals with insurers all the time and we would be happy to negotiate a truly fair settlement on your behalf. Second, in the days after your accident, you may not yet know the extent of your physical, mental, and emotional injuries. You may not yet know how your accident will affect your employment situation long-term. You shouldn’t speak with an insurer until we’ve evaluated your case and assessed your damages in the short-term and long-term. That way, you’ll be confident that you’re not settling for less than the amount you deserve.

Remember, insurance providers can use anything you say to them as an excuse to lower your settlement amount. If you do choose to speak with an insurance provider before you’ve spoken with an attorney, don’t admit blame and be aware that what you say can be used against you.

 What We Can Do

At Jeff Murphy Law, we are a team of legal professionals who have vast experience in pedestrian accident cases. We understand how physically and emotionally painful these types of accidents can be, and realize that you probably have suffered from copious amounts of financial losses. If you were a pedestrian, injured by another party who was acting negligently, you may be able to pursue legal action.

Our Tampa, FL pedestrian accident lawyers understand that you want to get back on your feet and resume daily life as soon as possible, and with little to no stress. It is our goal to make this happen through due diligence, a strong case, and aggressive legal advocacy. If you are interested in finding out whether or not you have a case, and how we may be able to recover maximum compensation for you, call a member of our team right now.

Why Choose Us to Represent You

As an injured pedestrian, you have the right to file a claim on your own. If you do so, you can expect various challenges and legal obstacles that may require you to understand complex legislation and procedures. Failure to know these things could cause delays, confusion, and lost time and money.

A pedestrian accident lawyer in Florida from Jeff Murphy Law has represented numerous people who suffered from extensive injuries, varying in their severity, and we’re looking for a legal advocate who was ready to give their case every amount of attention that it deserved. When you choose us to be your legal advocate, you can feel confident in knowing that your case will be treated in the exact same way. You will also get:

•       Frequent updates on your case
•       Strong legal representation
•       Support from all of our staff
•       Medical care, if you need it
•       The possibility of a medical lien
•       Aggressive negotiation
•       Maximum compensation

We Have Your Best Interest in Mind

When you need a dedicated lawyer to support you, look no further than our law firm to help you recover the compensation you need, and deserve. For a free case review, call to speak with a pedestrian accident lawyer in Tampa, FL at Jeff Murphy Law immediately.

Tampa Pedestrian Accident FAQs

Your Tampa, FL pedestrian accident lawyer can help you get the compensation and closure that you deserve. At Jeff Murphy Law, we have over 33 years of experience helping our clients with pedestrian accidents, car accidents, and all kinds of other personal injuries. Now, we’re ready to use our experience to help you. Read on for answers to some common pedestrian accident questions, and contact us today to get started on your case.

What Is The Typical Duration For Resolving A Pedestrian Accident Case?

The duration of a pedestrian accident case can vary widely based on several factors, including the complexity of the case, the extent of the injuries involved, and the specific details of the accident. Typically, a straightforward case where liability is clear might be resolved in a few months, but more complex cases, especially those requiring extensive medical treatment or involving contested liability, can take a year or more to resolve.

How Should I Handle Medical Expenses If The Driver Responsible Is Uninsured?

Handling medical expenses after an accident with an uninsured driver can be particularly stressful. Initially, your own health insurance may cover the costs. If you do not have personal health insurance, you may need to pay out of pocket and seek compensation later. Some states have uninsured motorist coverage as part of auto insurance policies that can cover injuries incurred in pedestrian accidents.

What Types Of Damages Are Recoverable In Pedestrian Accident Cases?

In pedestrian accident cases, you may be entitled to recover various types of damages depending on the specifics of your situation. These typically include medical expenses, lost wages if you’re unable to work, pain and suffering, and sometimes, punitive damages if the driver’s conduct was particularly reckless.

What Actions Should I Take If The Driver Involved In The Accident Flees The Scene?

If the driver involved in the accident flees the scene, try to gather as much information as possible from witnesses, and note any details about the vehicle that you can remember. This information can be crucial for the police to locate the driver. Immediately report the accident to the police and provide them with all the collected details. It’s also beneficial to look for surveillance cameras that may have captured the accident, as this footage can be pivotal in identifying the fleeing driver.

How Do I Prepare For A Meeting With An Attorney After A Pedestrian Accident?

To prepare for a meeting with your Tampa pedestrian accident lawyer, gather all documentation related to the accident and your injuries. This includes any medical records, bills, photographs of the scene, the police report, and any witness statements. Also, prepare a detailed account of the accident and how your injuries have impacted your daily life and work. The more information you can provide, the better your attorney can assess your case and plan the next steps.

I’ve Been Hit by a Car – What Do I Do Now?

If you haven’t been checked out by a professional, drop everything and go to the doctor. You could have internal injuries you can’t yet perceive. Legal action can wait until after you’ve ensured your physical wellbeing. Once you’ve received care, please go ahead and call our Tampa, FL pedestrian accident lawyer so that our legal team can begin protecting your rights and advising you of your legal options. If you have pictures of the scene and/or the contact information for any witnesses, please bring them along to your consultation.

Can Pedestrians Be Held Liable if They’re Struck by a Motorist?

There are times that pedestrians make mistakes in such a way that they contribute to accidents. However, it is very, very rare for a pedestrian to be held more than 50 percent liable for their contribution to a collision that caused them to be struck. This is an important figure because it is generally the threshold under which accident victims can recover compensation for their injuries.

Say that a pedestrian is struck by a car while jaywalking. Because the pedestrian didn’t follow certain safety standards, they will be considered partially at-fault for the accident. However, the degree to which they will be held at fault will be influenced heavily by circumstance. If the pedestrian darts out immediately in front of a car, without warning, on a busy road wherein the motorist has no hope of stopping, the pedestrian might not be able to recover much for their injuries. However, if the pedestrian was jaywalking in such a way that the motorist had more than enough time to stop but didn’t because they were distracted, the motorist will be found to be at-fault far more than the pedestrian will be for causing the accident. As a result, the pedestrian will be able to recover damages for the harm they have suffered.

No two pedestrian accidents are exactly alike. When you speak with our firm’s experienced Tampa, FL pedestrian accident lawyer about the specifics of your situation, we’ll be able to give you our thoughts on the potential strengths and weaknesses of your case. Even if you were partially at-fault for your collision, chances are that you’ll be able to recover compensation regardless. You can call the experienced Florida legal team at Jeff Murphy law at any time for a free case evaluation.

Does a pedestrian have a claim when involved in an accident?

When a pedestrian is hit by a bike, car, or truck, he or she may be injured. The injuries can be serious or even fatal. If you have been hit by a vehicle while on foot, you may have minor injuries like scrapes and cuts, but it is far more likely to result in more serious injuries, such as fractures, dislocations, neck and back injuries, and head injuries (which often result in traumatic brain injuries). As a pedestrian, just like anyone else, if you are injured as a result of someone else’s negligence, you have the legal right to be compensated for the injuries you have suffered.

The first thing our firm’s Tampa, FL pedestrian accident lawyer will want to do is determine who caused the accident – in other words, we need to find out who was at fault. It may surprise you to know that there are numerous Florida statutes that apply to motor vehicles and pedestrians. It is critical for your attorney to know exactly where and how the accident happened. Your attorney may need to obtain photos of the scene and will certainly want to take statements from all witnesses who saw what happened. At that point, your attorney should be able to determine who had the right of way and who was at fault. Keep in mind that an accident is not always 100% one person’s fault.

People who are involved in an accident will sometimes share responsibility for the resulting injuries. It is extremely important for your attorney to gather all the facts so he or she can properly advise you on the strengths and weaknesses of your case. Remember, even if you are partly at fault for an accident, Florida law may still allow you to recover damages.

Your damages may include the pain and suffering you sustained due to your injuries. This includes those damages suffered in the past as well as those you will suffer in the future. These damages can sometimes be difficult to evaluate, and it will take an experienced personal injury attorney to accurately advise you on the value of your case.

7 Common Mistakes After A Pedestrian Accident

Being involved in a pedestrian accident can be a disorienting and traumatic experience, but your Tampa FL pedestrian accident lawyer can help. At Jeff Murphy Law, our team is ready to use our over 33 years of experience to help. With award-winning service and a range of practice areas that covers personal injuries and pedestrian accidents alike, we’re here to get you through your case. Read on to see some common mistakes that victims make after an accident, and contact us today to get started.

1. Not Calling the Police

It’s vital to have an official report. Some people think if they can still walk and talk, they don’t need to involve the police, but failing to have an accident documented can make it much harder to pursue a claim later. The police report provides an unbiased record of the event, which is important for any legal actions or insurance claims.

2. Not Gathering Evidence at the Scene

If you’re physically able to do so, gather evidence at the scene. This includes taking photos of the location, the vehicles involved, any visible injuries, and gathering names and contact details of witnesses. These pieces of information are valuable for reconstructing the event accurately, and can really help your Tampa pedestrian accident lawyer.

3. Delaying Medical Treatment

Sometimes, the adrenaline in your body can mask pain, leading you to believe you’re not seriously injured. Always seek medical attention immediately after an accident. Delaying this not only risks your health but can also weaken your claim, as insurers or opposing parties might argue that your injuries were not serious or were unrelated to the incident.

4. Admitting Fault

It’s crucial to watch what you say after an accident. Even a simple apology can be misconstrued as an admission of fault. Limit your communication with the other party and never discuss fault or details of the incident. Let investigators handle the determination of who was responsible based on the evidence.

5. Neglecting to Follow Doctor’s Orders

Once you receive medical advice, follow it thoroughly. If you skip appointments or disregard medical instructions, it may be used against you to suggest that your injuries are not as severe as claimed.

6. Talking to Insurers Without Preparation

Insurance adjusters may contact you soon after an accident to get a statement or offer a settlement. These initial offers are often much lower than what you may actually be entitled to. Always talk to a legal professional before engaging in detailed discussions or accepting offers from insurance companies.

7. Posting on Social Media

In today’s digital age, it’s common to share life updates on social media. However, posting details about your accident or recovery can provide fodder for insurance adjusters or defense attorneys to dispute your claims. It’s safer to keep details of your accident and legal proceedings off social media platforms.

We Are Here To Help

If you or someone you know has been involved in a pedestrian accident, avoiding these common mistakes is key to protecting your rights and ensuring a fair outcome. At Jeff Murphy Law, we understand the challenges that come with these situations. Contact us today, and see how a Tampa pedestrian accident lawyer from our team can help.

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