A pedestrian accident can have immediate and devastating effects. Too often, pedestrian accidents leave vulnerable victims with severe physical injuries, psychological trauma, and financial uncertainty. Moving forward with life after a pedestrian accident can feel nearly impossible. This is why you need a supportive Niceville pedestrian accident lawyer who can provide the necessary legal counsel as you pursue compensation.
At The Bruner Law Firm, our Niceville pedestrian accident lawyers understand what it takes to build a strong accident claim. Our legal team has extensive expertise in handling cases related to auto accidents, particularly in the Niceville area. We also recognize the increasing prevalence and seriousness of motor vehicle accidents in America and the importance of legal representation to secure compensation for damages related to such incidents. Our legal team dedicates itself to helping accident victims seek maximum compensation for their injuries and supporting them throughout the legal process.
Learn more about how a Niceville pedestrian accident lawyer can help by contacting our office today at (850) 605-0672 and arranging a free case evaluation.
What’s the Advantage of Hiring a Lawyer for a Pedestrian Hit by a Car?
It’s always in your best interest to reach out to a Niceville pedestrian accident lawyer as soon as possible following an accident. Insurance companies aren’t looking out for your best interest, and recovering the money you deserve after an accident can be challenging. Holding those responsible for the accident accountable, especially when it is due to someone else’s negligence, is crucial in ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve.
In fact, insurance companies will likely offer you as little as possible, hoping you’ll agree to a quick payout in your desperate and vulnerable state. Unfortunately, that check may be far less than you need to cover your medical expenses and other financial losses. They could also deny you outright. Before you agree to any settlement offer, seek experienced pedestrian accident legal advice. An attorney will evaluate your situation, calculate your losses, and negotiate on your behalf to secure the fair compensation you deserve. They have extensive experience in helping clients recover compensation from negligent drivers for lost wages, medical expenses, and emotional distress.
The pedestrian injury compensation claims process can get complicated. Contact a skilled pedestrian accident attorney for help so you can focus on healing.
Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents
Numerous factors can contribute to Niceville pedestrian accidents, which are a type of traffic accident, although driver error and distractions are the most common causes. Pedestrians can be more challenging for motorists to notice, meaning anything that takes a motorist’s eyes or attention away from the road can lead to a devastating pedestrian collision. Driver behaviors that lead to the most pedestrian accidents in Niceville tend to involve:
- Distracted driving
- Impaired driving
- Speeding
- Aggressive driving
- Failing to yield the right of way
- Failing to look both ways before making a left turn
- Failing to obey posted traffic signs and signals
- Speeding
Other factors can also contribute to pedestrian accidents, including poor visibility, inclement weather, and mechanical defects.
Common Injuries in Pedestrian Accidents
Unfortunately, pedestrian collisions are associated with some of the most significant and catastrophic types of injuries. Pedestrians have nothing to protect themselves with. They have no seat belts or airbags, and they bear the brunt of an impact. When more than 3,000 pounds of steel and fiberglass collide with a pedestrian, the consequences can be devastating, often resulting in a serious injury.
Some of the injuries commonly associated with pedestrian accidents include:
- Traumatic brain injury
- Other head injuries
- Back and spinal cord injuries
- Amputations
- Broken bones
- Road rash
- Burns
- Organ damage
- Internal bleeding
- Soft tissue damage
- Dislocations
- Lacerations
- Contusions
Physical injuries are only one aspect of pedestrian accidents. Significant pedestrian accidents can also have psychological effects. Depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder are common mental health issues that can manifest after an accident.
Statute of Limitations on Pedestrian Accident Lawsuits
Sometimes, the medical costs associated with pedestrian accident injuries exceed insurance policy limits. Depending on the circumstances of the accident, filing a personal injury lawsuit may be the best option for recovering maximum compensation. However, Florida law limits the time you have to file a lawsuit to two years from the accident date.
Failing to file a lawsuit before the legal deadline can result in the dismissal of your case. Not only do you lose leverage, but you can also lose the ability to collect meaningful compensation for your injuries and other losses. Working with an attorney immediately after an accident means you have a knowledgeable advocate who can manage strict legal deadlines and help you through the Florida legal process.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Should I Look for When Selecting a Pedestrian Injury Attorney in Niceville?
There are numerous practicing pedestrian accident attorneys in Niceville. How do you choose the right attorney to handle your claim? Selecting an attorney often comes down to working with someone you trust. You want to do your research and ensure that the pedestrian accident attorney you choose has extensive experience handling pedestrian accident cases and knowledge of the Florida legal system.
Another good metric to help you select a pedestrian accident injury attorney in Niceville is reviewing the law firm’s case results. Although every pedestrian accident claim is unique, reviewing a firm’s case results can help give you a good idea of whether the firm has a strong track record of recovering maximum compensation for its clients.
Arrange a free case review to help you gauge an attorney’s communication style, transparency, and skills. Be sure to take notes and ask questions. An attorney should take the time to get to know you and answer your questions, making a nerve-wracking and stressful process as manageable for you as possible. You can learn much from a case evaluation interaction and determine whether you feel confident letting the attorney handle your claim.
How Do Niceville’s Laws Protect Pedestrians in Crosswalk Accidents?
Niceville has traffic laws that aim to protect pedestrians. Pedestrians have the right of way at crosswalks and intersections, meaning drivers must stop and allow them to cross the road. Designated crosswalks give pedestrians the best view of traffic conditions and the right of way. However, pedestrians cannot cross an intersection or crosswalk when a traffic signal prohibits it.
Pedestrians and motorists alike must adhere to all Florida traffic laws and regulations.
What Type of Compensation Can I Claim After a Pedestrian Accident in Niceville?
The value of a compensation claim varies depending on the severity of a person’s injuries and the circumstances of the accident. However, in most cases, an injured pedestrian can pursue money for the following:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Loss of future earning potential
- Property damage
- Pain and suffering
If a negligent driver caused the accident, an attorney can help you recover compensation for your losses, including medical expenses and emotional distress.
Discuss your situation with a knowledgeable Florida pedestrian accident attorney who can accurately calculate the value of your claim and aggressively negotiate for maximum compensation for your injuries and financial losses.
What Should I Do If I’ve Been Hit by a Car as a Pedestrian in Niceville?
If a car hits you in Niceville, contact law enforcement right away. Authorities can control the scene and render medical assistance to everyone involved. If you can, exchange information with the driver and document the scene as thoroughly as possible with photographs and videos. Ask any eyewitnesses for their contact information. Most importantly, seek medical attention for your injuries immediately.
In the days after the accident, notify your insurance company and initiate the claim process. You also need to contact an attorney experienced in handling car accidents. Keep all paperwork, medical bills, and receipts related to the incident. These documents can help your attorney calculate your financial losses. Additionally, avoid posting anything about the accident on social media. Insurers or opposing attorneys can find your words and attempt to use them against you to diminish the value of your claim.
Finally, you must attend all follow-up medical appointments and stick to your doctor’s treatment plan. Medical documentation can be crucial to building a solid claim.
What Are the Recent Statistics on Pedestrian Accidents in Niceville?
Niceville is an excellent place to call home. Unfortunately, Florida is a dangerous state for pedestrians. Studies rank Florida as the second deadliest state in the nation for pedestrian accidents and fatalities. Traffic congestion and distracted drivers can lead to higher numbers of pedestrian accident incidents. With more pedestrians and motorists sharing Florida roadways, tragic accidents are becoming more common.
How a Niceville Pedestrian Accident Attorney Can Help
Pedestrian accident claims differ from typical car accident claims and can be much more complex. Pedestrian accidents typically involve more significant and extensive injuries, leading to higher medical expenses. These expenses can quickly exceed many insurance policy limits. Recovering maximum compensation after a Niceville pedestrian accident often requires legal intervention. Unlike car accidents, pedestrian accidents demand a specialized approach to ensure all aspects are thoroughly addressed.
A Niceville pedestrian accident attorney can help manage every aspect of your claim, leaving you free to focus on recovery. At The Bruner Law Firm, our Niceville pedestrian accident lawyers are prepared to help you navigate the claim process from start to finish. We have the resources and knowledge to:
- Investigate the cause of the pedestrian accident
- Identify all potentially liable parties
- Collect and preserve crucial evidence
- Build a robust claim
- Manage communication between you and other parties
- Aggressively negotiate for compensation on your behalf
- Prepare a lawsuit for trial when necessary
We aim to eliminate the stress of managing an accident claim while working to achieve the most favorable results possible.
Contact a Niceville Pedestrian Accident Lawyer from The Bruner Law Firm
Pedestrian accident claims can be overwhelming, especially when you’re dealing with the effects of your injuries. You should work with a skilled Niceville pedestrian accident lawyer for the best chance of recovering the money you deserve. At The Bruner Law Firm, our legal team is committed to helping you understand your legal rights. We aim to build a solid claim and tenaciously advocate for maximum compensation to cover your injuries and financial losses.
Contact us online or call our Niceville office today at (850) 605-0672 and request a free consultation.