Pedestrian Accident Injuries In Pinellas County: What to Do Next
You can be out walking one moment, and the next, your life is changed. Being hit by a car in Pinellas County is a traumatic experience. With little to protect pedestrians, even low-speed accidents can cause potentially life-threatening harm.
Whether it occurred while crossing the street, walking through a parking lot, or standing near a sidewalk, you could be facing major medical expenses and injuries that prevent you from working for years afterward. If this happens to you or someone you love, know that you are not alone and have the right to seek compensation. Our experienced Seminole pedestrian accident attorney explains common causes of these crashes and what to do next.
Common Causes of Pinellas County Pedestrian Accidents
Seminole and the surrounding areas are among the most densely populated in Florida, with high volumes of both foot and vehicle traffic. Unfortunately, this combination leads to frequent pedestrian accidents, often due to driver negligence.
Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) warns that nearly 500 pedestrian accidents in Pinellas County occur annually. They are particularly common during the busy summer season, but can happen any time of year. Reckless behavior on the part of motorists is often responsible. This includes:
- Distracted driving, such as making calls, texting, or using GPS behind the wheel;
- Failing to yield at crosswalks or intersections;
- Speeding in residential or commercial areas;
- Driving under the influence;
- Improper left or right turns where drivers don’t see pedestrians in the crosswalk.
Even when pedestrians follow the rules, using crosswalks and obeying traffic signals, they can still be struck by careless drivers. Fortunately, the Florida Statutes protect your right to seek damages if the driver failed to exercise reasonable care.
What to Do After a Pedestrian Accident In Pinellas County
The moments after a pedestrian accident in Pinellas County are chaotic. You may have suffered serious injuries or be in a state of shock. However, taking certain steps in the aftermath can protect your health and your rights in an injury claim.
If you are able, or if someone else is with you, we recommend the following actions:
- Call 911 immediately, report the accident, and make sure law enforcement documents the scene.
- Get contact and insurance information from the driver involved.
- Take photos or video of your injuries, vehicle damages, and nearby signage or traffic signals.
- Get medical attention as soon as possible, even if you feel okay, as some injuries take hours or days to appear.
- Avoid giving statements to insurance adjusters without speaking to an experienced pedestrian accident attorney first.
Schedule A Consultation Today With Our Seminole Pedestrian Accident Attorney
Pedestrian accident injuries in Pinellas County can cause severe injuries that impact your life for a long time afterward. At The Reep Law Firm, we understand how overwhelming this situation can be and provide the caring, comprehensive legal representation you need to protect your rights in a claim.
To get the compensation you are entitled to, call or contact us online today. Schedule a consultation with our experienced Seminole pedestrian accident attorney.
Sources:
flhsmv.gov/pdf/crashreports/crash_facts_2022.pdf
leg.state.fl.us/Statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0300-0399/0316/Sections/0316.027.html
