Pedestrian Accident Lawyers

Every year thousands of fatalities and serious injuries are the result of motor vehicle accidents. These are often the result of driver negligence. Distracted drivers, poor vehicle maintenance, driving under the influence, failure to signal, and speeding are some of the common factors. But that isn’t the only cause of pedestrian injury. Thousands of non-vehicular pedestrian accidents occur each year and are due to negligent property owners. All Property owners, including stores, public facilities, government buildings, and residential homes have a duty to make sure that their property is reasonably safe and warn the public of any known dangers. An experienced pedestrian accident lawyer from Coffey McPharlin can help victims of both vehicle-related and non-vehicular accidents caused by negligent drivers or property owners, ensuring they receive the compensation they deserve for their injuries.

Why You Need a Pedestrian Accident Attorney?

Pedestrian accident cases can be complicated, as they often involve multiple parties, including drivers, property owners, and even government agencies. Proving negligence and liability can be challenging without the right legal knowledge and resources. That’s where a pedestrian accident attorney comes in. At Coffey McPharlin, our attorneys have extensive experience handling pedestrian accident cases and are skilled at building strong cases for our clients. Insurance companies may try to reduce or deny compensation, but our legal team knows how to protect your rights and negotiate for the compensation you deserve.

Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents in Fort Lauderdale

Several factors contribute to pedestrian accidents in Fort Lauderdale. Common causes include:

• Distracted Driving: Drivers who are texting, using their phones, or engaging in other distractions are more likely to hit pedestrians.
• Speeding: Excessive speed reduces a driver’s reaction time, making it difficult to avoid hitting pedestrians, especially at crosswalks or intersections.
• Failure to Yield: Many pedestrian accidents occur when drivers fail to yield the right of way to pedestrians in crosswalks or while turning.
• Poor Visibility: Pedestrian accidents are more likely to happen at night, in low-light conditions, or during poor weather.
• Impaired Driving: Alcohol, drugs, and prescription medications impair a driver’s ability to operate a vehicle safely, putting pedestrians at risk.

Each of these causes significantly increases the risk of severe injuries or fatalities for pedestrians. Drivers must remain vigilant and practice safe driving habits to prevent such tragic accidents, and when they don’t, a pedestrian accident lawyer can help hold them accountable.

Common Injuries in Pedestrian Accidents

Pedestrian accidents often result in life-threatening injuries due to the lack of protection. Some of the most common injuries include:

• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): Pedestrians struck by a vehicle may experience severe head trauma, leading to long-term cognitive and physical impairments.
• Spinal Cord Injuries: Accidents can cause damage to the spine, leading to partial or full paralysis.
• Broken Bones and Fractures: The impact of a collision often results in multiple fractures, particularly in the legs, arms, and ribs.
• Internal Injuries: Pedestrians may suffer internal bleeding or damage to organs, which can be life-threatening if not treated promptly.

These injuries can result in long-term physical and emotional suffering, requiring extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation. Victims of pedestrian accidents often face life-altering consequences, making it essential to seek compensation with the help of a pedestrian accident attorney.

Who Can Be Held Liable for Pedestrian Accidents?

Several parties may be held responsible for a pedestrian accident, depending on the circumstances:

• Drivers: Negligent drivers, such as those who are speeding, distracted, or driving under the influence, are frequently held liable for pedestrian accidents.
• Vehicle Owners: The owner of a vehicle is responsible for an accident caused by a driver who is allowed to drive their vehicle under Florida’s dangerous instrumentality doctrine.
• Employers: If an employee causes an accident while working, then the employer is responsible for the damages caused by the driver.
• Rideshare Uber, Lyft: Uber and Lyft each carry $1 million in insurance to benefit someone injured if an Uber or Lyft driver causes an accident while working on a rideshare platform.
• Amazon, FedEx, and UPS: These companies carry about $15 million in insurance to benefit people injured by their drivers racing through neighborhoods delivering packages at all hours of the day and night.
• Property Owners: In cases of non-vehicular accidents, such as slips and falls, property owners may be held liable for failing to maintain safe walkways or adequately lighting their property.

Determining liability in pedestrian accidents can be complex, as multiple parties may be responsible for the victim’s injuries. A pedestrian accident lawyer will investigate the circumstances to ensure all liable parties are held accountable for their negligence.

We Handle All Pedestrian Injury Cases in Fort Lauderdale

• Driver negligence
• Poor Vehicle Maintenance
• Falls on slippery or uneven surfaces
• Walkways impeded by construction materials or debris
• Inadequate security lighting
• Biting dogs
• Lack of warning signs

Coffey McPharlin has extensive experience handling a wide range of pedestrian accident cases, ensuring clients receive the best possible legal representation. Whether caused by driver negligence or unsafe premises, our pedestrian accident attorneys are dedicated to securing fair compensation for victims.

Steps to Take After a Pedestrian Accident

If you or a loved one is involved in a pedestrian accident, taking the following steps can protect your health and strengthen your legal case:

• Seek Medical Attention: Even if injuries seem minor, it’s essential to get checked by a medical professional.
• File a Police Report: This will provide an official record of the accident, which can be crucial when filing a claim.
• Document the Scene: Take photos of the scene, including the vehicle, your injuries, and any road conditions. Get contact information from witnesses.
• Contact a Pedestrian Accident Lawyer: Hiring a pedestrian accident lawyer early ensures that your case is built on strong legal foundations and maximizes your chances of fair compensation.

Taking these steps immediately after an accident not only protects your health but also strengthens your legal case. With the assistance of a pedestrian accident lawyer, victims can focus on recovery while their attorney handles the complexities of the case.

How a Pedestrian Accident Lawyer Can Help You?

At Coffey McPharlin, our pedestrian accident lawyers provide comprehensive legal services, including:

• Thorough Investigation: We gather crucial evidence, such as accident reports, surveillance footage, and witness statements, to build a strong case.
• Negotiating with Insurance Companies: Insurance companies often try to settle for less than you deserve. Our attorneys handle all negotiations to ensure you receive fair compensation.
• Litigation if Necessary: If a settlement cannot be reached, we are prepared to take your case to trial and fight for the compensation you are entitled to.

With a skilled pedestrian accident attorney by your side, you can rest assured that every aspect of your case will be thoroughly addressed. From investigation to litigation, Coffey McPharlin is committed to fighting for the compensation you deserve.

Compensation for Pedestrian Accident Victims

Victims of pedestrian accidents may be entitled to compensation for:

• Medical Expenses: This includes immediate and future medical costs, such as hospital stays, surgeries, rehabilitation, and medication.
• Lost Wages and Future Earnings: If injuries prevent you from returning to work, you may recover compensation for lost income and diminished future earning potential.
• Pain and Suffering: Compensation for physical pain, emotional distress, and reduced quality of life due to the accident.
• Future Medical Care: In cases of severe injuries, victims may need long-term care or home modifications, which can be factored into compensation.

Compensation in pedestrian accident cases covers both the immediate and long-term costs of the injuries. A pedestrian accident lawyer will ensure that every financial loss, including future medical care and lost earning potential, is factored into your claim.

Call Our Fort Lauderdale Law Firm Today

Regardless of the circumstances, pedestrian injury can result in serious injury, lost wages, and family hardship. Our legal team has the compassion and motivation to fight for you and get you the compensation you need. Let Coffey McPharlin get you the justice you deserve. Call us at (954) 289-6316 today for a free consultation with one of our pedestrian accident attorneys. We’re Good Lawyers Helping People!