Pedestrian Rights in Tampa: A Guide to Accident Lawsuits

If you're a pedestrian in Tampa, Florida, it's essential to know your rights in the event of an accident. This guide will explain what to do if you're hit by a car and how to file a lawsuit if necessary. Pedestrian accidents are all too prevalent in Tampa, Florida. 

In 2017, there were around 5,000 pedestrian accidents in Florida, according to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles. There were 253 fatalities in the accidents. And while that may not seem like a lot compared to other states, many people still lost their lives while walking on Tampa streets.

What are your rights as a pedestrian in Tampa, Florida?

If you are involved in a pedestrian accident in Tampa, Florida, you must understand your legal rights. Depending on the facts, you may be eligible to launch a personal injury lawsuit against the motorist who struck you.

You must be able to establish that the motorist was at fault to win a pedestrian accident claim in Florida. This may be accomplished by demonstrating that the motorist was distracted, speeding, or under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

If you prove that the driver was at fault, you can recover damages for your medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

If you have been involved in a pedestrian accident in Tampa, Florida, contact an experienced personal injury attorney today to discuss your case.

How to file an accident lawsuit as a pedestrian in Tampa, Florida

If you or a loved one has been hit by a car while walking in Tampa, Florida, it is essential to understand your rights. You may be able to file an accident lawsuit against the driver of the vehicle and recover compensation for your injuries and damages.

To file an accident lawsuit as a pedestrian in Tampa, Florida, you must prove that the vehicle's driver was at fault for the accident. This may be accomplished by demonstrating that the motorist was fast, inattentive, or not obeying traffic laws. If you have witnesses who saw the accident happen, their testimony can also help support your case.

Once you have gathered evidence to support your claim, you must file a personal injury lawsuit in the appropriate court. This is usually the Hillsborough County Circuit Court or the United States District Court for the Middle District of Florida in Tampa. Your lawyer will help you determine which court is best for your case.

If you win your accident case, you may recover compensation for your medical costs, lost earnings, pain and suffering, and other losses. If the driver of the vehicle is determined to be at fault, they may be required to pay punitive damages to punish them for their carelessness.

What are the most prevalent causes of pedestrian accidents in Tampa?

There are many common causes of pedestrian accidents in Tampa, Florida. One of the most common is distracted driving. When drivers are not paying attention to the road, they may not see a pedestrian in time to avoid an accident. Distracted driving can include anything from talking on the phone to looking at something else in the car.

Another common cause of pedestrian accidents is drunk driving. Drunk drivers have trouble recognizing pedestrians and often fail to cede the right of way to them. This can lead to severe injuries or even death for pedestrians.

A third common cause of pedestrian accidents is speeding. When drivers are going too fast, they may not be able to stop in time if a pedestrian steps out into the road. Speeding also makes it harder for drivers to see pedestrians, leading to accidents.

If you have been involved in a pedestrian accident, you must understand your rights as a victim. You can get money for your pain and suffering, medical bills, and lost wages. After an accident caused by someone else's carelessness, a competent personal injury attorney can assist you in obtaining the compensation you deserve.

How can you prevent being involved in a pedestrian accident in Tampa, Florida?

On sidewalks and crosswalks, pedestrians have the right of way. However, you are also responsible for being aware of your surroundings and taking precautions to avoid accidents.

To help prevent being involved in a pedestrian accident in Tampa, Florida, follow these safety tips:

• Be aware of your surroundings at all times and stay alert.
• Look before you cross the street, even if you have the right of way.
• Make eye contact with drivers as they approach to ensure they see you.
• Don't assume a driver will yield to you – always be prepared to stop or take evasive action.
• Wear bright or reflective clothing when walking at night or in low-light conditions.
• Use caution when walking near construction zones, busy roads, or areas with heavy foot traffic.
• Obey all traffic signals and signs.

Conclusion

If you have been in a pedestrian accident in Tampa, Florida, you must seek assistance from a pedestrian accident lawyer who can help you understand your legal rights and options. It's possible that your injuries, damages, and losses qualify you for financial compensation. Still, it's important to file a lawsuit before the deadline if you want to get the most money.

An experienced pedestrian accident lawyer can help you get through the legal process, give you advice about your case, and fight for you to get the most money possible in compensation. Don't hesitate to contact a pedestrian accident lawyer for a no-obligation consultation to discuss your case and determine the best course of action.