Pensacola is a city that is relatively easy to navigate on foot. There is much to explore, from the beautiful beaches and thriving nightlife. Beyond exploring the sights, residents rely on their two legs to get to work, school, or home after a long day. Despite this, very few crosswalks are in the city, increasing the odds of a car hitting a pedestrian.
When you or a loved one are involved in a pedestrian accident outside of a crosswalk in Pensacola, you should reach out to an experienced pedestrian accident attorney at Emmanuel Sheppard & Condon.
Pedestrians generally have the right of way when crossing the road. Many motorists will respect this right of way, yet some will not. Unfortunately, Pensacola is among the nation’s top cities for fatal pedestrian accidents. Pedestrians should take the following precautions when moving around the city:
Regardless of what a pedestrian does or does not do when walking, drivers have a duty to obey traffic laws. This duty includes not causing bodily injury or death to persons simply walking to their destination. Motorists who cause pedestrian accidents were more than likely engaging in illegal activity, such as:
A proactive attorney could provide a case assessment and more information on the rights of pedestrians who are hit outside of a crosswalk in Pensacola.
A collision with a vehicle could be catastrophic for individuals who are on foot. While cars come with impact-absorbing steel, individuals do not. Often, this means contact with a vehicle results in persons experiencing life-threatening injuries or sudden death. Common injuries include:
The law allows pedestrians hurt in a car accident outside of a Pensacola crosswalk to pursue restitution. Compensation is in the form of money for the damage done. Compensatory damages could cover medical bills, past due rent, and wages lost from the inability to work a job. Funds also can come in the form of future damages for ongoing treatment costs, long-term pain, and the value of losing a provider.
There is an insurance claim and a legal lawsuit process to collect damages. First, motorists in Florida must have insurance amounting to at least $10,000 in personal liability and $10,000 in property damage. The representing attorney will initially negotiate with the insurance company for the payment. However, insurers are known for attempting to avoid paying, and in some cases, negligent vehicle operators do not have vehicle coverage.
When this happens, a diligent lawyer could file a personal injury lawsuit on behalf of the pedestrian. Legal claims could force a settlement, or a jury could issue a verdict awarding a sizable payment in damages.
The statute of limitations for injured pedestrians to file a personal injury claim is two years from the crash date. Prioritize medical treatment and spending time with relatives after the incident, then you can reach out to us.
Call Emmanuel Sheppard & Condon to speak with a qualified attorney about filing suit for pedestrian accidents outside of a crosswalk in Pensacola.