Bradenton Pedestrian Accident Lawyer
As a pedestrian, you face considerable risks walking down the sidewalk or crossing the street in Bradenton. Your life could change in a split second if you’re struck by a negligent driver who fails to stop for you. Accidents involving pedestrians tend to involve severe to catastrophic injuries since the vehicle usually makes a direct impact on your body. If you or someone you love was injured in an accident while walking, you need to speak with a skilled Bradenton pedestrian accident lawyer right away.
At The Cahill Law Firm, we have years of experience helping Florida clients get the compensation they deserve after a personal injury incident, including a Bradenton pedestrian accident. We will provide the quality representation and personal attention you deserve following a pedestrian accident. Our priority is to ensure you receive justice and the maximum compensation possible.
Florida Pedestrian Accident Statistics
Every year thousands of people are injured or killed in pedestrian accidents all across the state. In 2019, there were 9,736 crashes involving pedestrians. That number is around 400 more than the year before. Of those nearly 10,000 crashes, 734 involved fatalities. Alcohol and drugs play a role in some of these accidents as well. For example, 132 of the fatalities involved alcohol or drugs or both.
Who Is Responsible for Your Injuries as a Pedestrian?
Understandably, one of the most common questions we get is who will pay for the victim’s damages. Every case is different, which is why you want to speak with an experienced lawyer who can help you sort out liability. While most pedestrian accidents result from negligent or reckless drivers, there are some instances where a pedestrian can contribute or even cause the accident. For example, a pedestrian who jaywalks, crosses the road without waiting for the walk signal, or a pedestrian who walks in front of a vehicle could be considered at least partially at fault for the accident.
Florida has a “Right of Way” law that says pedestrians have the right-of-way when crossing the street. That means all motorists are expected to yield the right-of-way when a pedestrian steps onto a crosswalk, even if there are no crossing signals or signs. This law doesn’t mean pedestrians don’t have a duty to yield to a driver if crossing on a street where there is no crosswalk.
Each state also has its own system of liability. Florida is a pure comparative negligence state, which means you can still get compensation for your injuries in some situations if you are partially at fault. Your percentage of fault will reduce your recovery. For example, if a jury determines you are 20% at fault, you could collect up to 80% of your damages. If the jury finds you 80% at fault, you could collect 20% of your damages.
Contact a Bradenton Pedestrian Accident Attorney
Pedestrian accidents can be complicated to pursue. You need a skilled legal advocate on your side who can protect your rights and help you fight for the compensation you deserve. To learn more about how our Bradenton pedestrian accident attorneys can assist you, contact The Cahill Law Firm.
